Looking for a new exotic fruit to add to your diet? Look no further than carambola, also known as starfruit. This tropical fruit is not only delicious, but it is also packed with health benefits. In this article, we’ll explore the anti-inflammatory benefits of carambola, its effects on bone health, and its nutritional value.
What Is Carambola?
Carambola is a tropical fruit that is native to Southeast Asia and has spread throughout the world. It is called “starfruit” because of its shape when sliced. It is usually eaten fresh, either on its own or in salads, but it can also be used in jams, jellies, and sauces.
Nutritional Value of Carambola
Carambola is low in calories but high in fiber, potassium, and vitamin C. According to the U.S. nutritional database, a 100-gram serving of carambola provides the following nutrients:
- Calories: 31
- Protein: 1 gram
- Fat: 0.3 grams
- Carbs: 6.7 grams
- Fiber: 2.8 grams
- Vitamin C: 34% of the daily value (DV)
- Potassium: 3% of the DV
Anti-Inflammatory Benefits of Carambola
Carambola contains flavonoids, a type of antioxidant that has anti-inflammatory effects. These flavonoids can help reduce inflammation in the body, which can lead to a number of health benefits.
Studies have shown that carambola extracts can reduce inflammation in the body by decreasing the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines. This can help alleviate symptoms of inflammatory conditions such as arthritis, asthma, and inflammatory bowel disease.
Effects on Bone Health
Carambola is also high in calcium, which is essential for bone health. Calcium is one of the most important minerals in the body, and it makes up a significant portion of our bones.
Studies have shown that increased calcium intake can lead to improved bone density and a reduced risk of fractures. Adding carambola to your diet can be a great way to boost your calcium intake and improve your bone health.
Food Combining Information
Carambola combines well with other fruits, making it a great addition to any fruit salad or smoothie. It also pairs well with savory flavors, such as cheese or nuts.
When it comes to food combining, it’s important to keep in mind that carambola is acidic. This means that it may not be the best fruit to eat alongside other acidic fruits, such as citrus or pineapple. Instead, pair it with sweeter fruits, such as bananas or mangoes, to balance out the acidity.
Anti-Inflammatory Smoothie Recipe
Looking for a tasty and anti-inflammatory way to enjoy carambola? Try this easy smoothie recipe:
Ingredients:
- 1 carambola
- 1 banana
- 1 cup unsweetened coconut milk
- ½ tsp. ground ginger
- ½ tsp. ground cinnamon
- 1 tsp. honey
Instructions:
- Slice the carambola and remove any seeds.
- Peel the banana and slice it into chunks.
- Add the carambola, banana, and coconut milk to a blender.
- Add the ginger, cinnamon, and honey.
- Blend until smooth.
Conclusion
Carambola is a delicious and nutritious fruit that can bring many health benefits to your diet. Its anti-inflammatory effects, bone health benefits, and nutritional value make it a great addition to any meal. If you love anti-inflammatory fruits, check out the rest of our fruits section here or pop over to our anti-inflammatory herbs section where you can find powerful goodness to add to any autoimmune smoothie. Thank you for reading and please come back again!