Food is medicine: Nutritional value of Carambola
BASSETERRE St .Kitts, September 5th, 2013 -- Carambola, the Star Fruit or Five Fingers as it is affectionately known here in St Kitts and Nevis has five prominent longitudinal ridges. Carambola is a low-calorie with only 40 calories in a single large fruit and less than 1 gram of fat. Like other fruits, the calories come mostly from natural sugar. Most importantly, it is loaded with health-boosting nutrients.
Vitamin C: Carambola is an excellent source of vitamin C which boosts the immune system and helps the body fight infections, cancers and other ailments. One large fruit provides 43 mg or 70% of the recommended daily amount.
Other Antioxidants: Apart from Vitamin C, Carambola is also an excellent source of other antioxidants that help to prevent and fight infections, cancer and heart disease. Antioxidants also assist in slowing the aging process.
Cancer Prevention: One large Carambola provides 4 grams of fiber or about 16% of the recommended daily amount. Fiber aids digestion, prevents constipation and helps prevent colon cancer.
Copper: A person needs this mineral in very small amounts (micronutrient). It helps to healthy, new cells for the circulatory and nervous systems. One large Carambola supplies 8% of the daily need.
Other Minerals: It also contains small amount of minerals and electrolytes like potassium, phosphorus, and zinc and iron. Potassium is an important component of cells and body fluids and also helps control heart rate and blood pressure; thus counters the bad influences of sodium.
Energy Snack: Carambola is a healthy, quick and easy snack alternative to calorie-dense cookies and candies. The fruit contains a satisfactory amount of natural energy to last the entire day without increasing the waistline.
Medicine: In some countries, Carambola juice is often recommended in many folk medicines as a diuretic (to increase urine output) and a cough-reliever.
Medical disclaimer: This information is intended solely for the general information for the reader. It is not to be used to diagnose health problems or for treatment purposes. It is not a substitute for medical care provided by a licensed and qualified health professional. Please consult your health care provider for any advice on medications.
Latoya Matthew-Duncan
Nutrition Officer
Health Promotion Unit
Ministry of Health
467-1263
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