The star apple is the fruit that is obtained from a tropical tree known by the name of Chrysophyllum cainito or cainito , which occurs in the areas of Central America and the Caribbean. The particular aspect that this fruit has, makes it one of the most attractive, due to its tender skin and its violet color.
Apart from its attractiveness, the star apple is one of the richest fruits in nutrients and because of them, it is used to treat various diseases and conditions, such as anemia, diabetes, blood pressure and colds; In addition, it is very useful for strengthening bones and improving brain functions.
Index
Star apple benefits
As has already been mentioned, the star apple is one of the most beneficial fruits for humans, since its content in vitamins and minerals allows the body to be strengthened, which is why a wide variety of individuals decide to include it in their diet. Among the most relevant benefits that caimito offers to its consumer are the following:
It is useful to lose weight
The star apple has a large amount of soluble fiber, which serves to help the body better assimilate nutrients, as well as to improve intestinal transit, which accelerates the evacuation process. That is why individuals who want to reduce their weight incorporate star apple into their diet.
Strengthens bones
Vitamins D and E, together with the calcium found in star apple, make this fruit a useful tool to strengthen bones, because vitamins help in the absorption of calcium, a mineral that allows the bone structure to be vitalized.
Therefore, regular consumption of star apple helps prevent diseases such as osteoporosis, osteogenesis, paget’s disease of the bone, as well as bone cancer.
Increase sexual desire
It is believed that the components of star apple serve to increase libido and because of this, as well as because of its exoticism, this fruit is one of the most used as an aphrodisiac.
Fight diabetes
Studies and research have shown that star apple has the ability to lower glucose levels found in the blood, a property also possessed by the leaves of its plant; that is why the consumption of star apple is recommended in diabetics.
Improve memory
The B complex vitamins, as well as vitamins C and D, serve to increase memory and concentration levels, as well as significantly improve brain functions.
Therefore, the consumption of this fruit is recommended in the elderly, as well as in individuals who are subjected to stressful situations, such as students.
Regulates blood pressure
Antioxidants, along with other components found in star apple, help regulate blood pressure, therefore, a large number of diseases are avoided, including hypertension, coronary heart disease, heart failure, arrhythmia, strokes, among others.
Promotes menstruation
The consumption of star apple during menstruation, as well as during the days before it, can help promote the menstrual process, this is due to its emmenagogue properties, which stimulate the functioning of the female reproductive system.
Helps in the treatment of common conditions
The intake of starfruit is recommended to reduce fever, hydrate the body, fight diarrhea and reduce inflammation associated with pneumonia and laryngitis. This is because the star apple has a wide variety of useful components to treat these conditions.
Improves the appearance of the skin
Vitamins D and E are extremely necessary for the body, since they fulfill a large number of functions, however, among the most notable is the vitality that they provide to the appearance of the skin, since these vitamins help to maintain the correct functioning of the integumentary system.
Strengthens hair and nails
In the same way that the vitamins D and E found in star apple keep the skin hydrated, healthy and beautiful, they also promote the growth and strengthening of the hair, not to mention that they also significantly improve the appearance of the nails.
Combat intestinal disorders
There are certain intestinal problems that can be treated with star apple, including constipation, heartburn, and abdominal pain. Therefore, if you experience any of these conditions, the consumption of star apple is recommended.
It should be noted that star apple should not be consumed as a medicinal method, if serious intestinal problems occur, it is necessary to turn to a specialist.
Strengthens the immune system
The great variety of nutrients that star apple has, especially iron, make this fruit a convenient food for the body, since with it it is possible to strengthen the immune system, thus avoiding the appearance and development of diseases such as anemia, colds , among others.
Star apple properties
This fruit has a set of components that are extremely beneficial, including vitamins, minerals, proteins and calories. With regard to vitamins, those found in star apple are:
- Vitamin A.
- Vitamin B1
- Vitamin B2.
- C vitamin.
- Vitamin D.
- Vitamin E.
On the other hand, the most relevant minerals that this fantastic and exotic fruit possesses are:
- Fiber.
- Football.
- Iron.
- Iodine.
- Match.
Due to these components, star apple has the following properties:
- Moisturizer.
- Slimming
- Laxative.
- Antibacterial
- Antimicrobial.
- Emenagogo.
How can you consume the star apple?
Star apple is one of the most versatile fruits, because although it can be ingested directly, it is also possible to consume it in other ways, therefore, the individual will surely have no problem to include it in their nutritional plan. The best known ways to consume star apple are:
- In jam.
- In juices or juices.
- In infusions, (for this only the leaves and the rind of the fruit are used).
- In desserts.
- In fruit salads.
Star apple contraindications
Although the star apple is one of the most exquisite and beneficial fruits, it is necessary to know that it should not be consumed in certain cases, because it could be counterproductive, among the most common cases in which its intake is limited and / or prohibited is find:
- Pregnant women: it is not known exactly what are the effects that star apple could have on pregnant women, therefore, it is recommended to consult a specialist doctor before consuming this fruit on a regular basis.
- Allergic individuals: the consumption of star apple is prohibited in individuals who are prone to react allergic to the ingestion of exotic fruits.
- Lactating women: with regard to women who are breastfeeding, it is not recommended that they consume the fruit or infusions of the leaves of its plant, since the infant may not tolerate some of its components.
Side effects
Although there is no record of serious side effects that are caused by star apple, there are certain symptoms that can be experienced if the consumption of the fruit has been excessive, among the most relevant are:
- Gases.
- Stomachache.
- Diarrhea.
- Dizziness and vomiting
Conclusion, is it recommended to eat star apple?
The consumption of this fruit is highly recommended, this is because if it is consumed in a moderate way, the individual can experience a large number of benefits, as well as strengthen their body.
However, it should be borne in mind that before starting to include it on a regular basis, it is necessary to consult with a nutrition expert, so that he or she is in charge of providing the relevant recommendations.
Dr. Samantha Robson ( CRN: 0510146-5) is a nutritionist and website content reviewer related to her area of expertise. With a postgraduate degree in Nutrition from The University of Arizona, she is a specialist in Sports Nutrition from Oxford University and is also a member of the International Society of Sports Nutrition.