STAR FRUIT

 

Star fruit, also known as carambola and is readily available in Malaysia.

It is easy to plant. It flowers well, bees loved them. Unfortunately, fruit flies also loves them.

To prevent fruit flies, you need to wrap the fruit before it ripens.

Taste okay but a bit sourish.

A unique tropical fruit with several interesting characteristics:

1. Star Shape: When cut crosswise, star fruit has a distinctive star shape, which is how it gets its name. This makes it a popular choice for garnishing dishes and drinks.
2. Taste Profile: The flavor of star fruit can vary from sweet to slightly tart, depending on the variety and ripeness. It has a crisp texture and is often described as a blend of apple, grape, and citrus.
3. Nutritional Value: Star fruit is low in calories and rich in vitamin C, fiber, and antioxidants. It is also a good source of dietary fiber and contains small amounts of potassium and magnesium.
4. Cultivation: Star fruit is native to Southeast Asia but is now grown in many tropical and subtropical regions worldwide, including parts of the Americas and the Caribbean.
5. Culinary Uses: Beyond being eaten fresh, star fruit can be used in salads, smoothies, jams, and desserts. It can also be cooked in savory dishes or used as a garnish.
6. Toxicity for Certain Individuals: Star fruit contains oxalic acid, which can be harmful to people with kidney problems. In those individuals, consuming star fruit can lead to toxicity and other health issues.
7. Cultural Significance: In some cultures, star fruit is considered a symbol of good luck and is associated with various traditional practices.
8. Varieties: There are several varieties of star fruit, with the most common being the sweet and sour types. The sweet variety is typically more palatable and has a thicker flesh.

However, studies show that eating starfruit can have a harmful (toxic) effect for people who have kidney disease. The substances found in starfruit can affect the brain and cause neurological disorders. This toxic substance is called a neurotoxin. People with healthy, normal kidneys can process and pass this toxin out from their body. However, for those with kidney disease, this is not possible. The toxin stays in the body and causes serious illness.

The symptoms of starfruit poisoning include:

• Hiccups
• Mental confusion
• Seizures
• Death (in serious cases)

If you have kidney disease, it is important to avoid starfruit and speak with your healthcare provider or your dietitian to learn more about the effects of starfruit or any other fruit you may not be sure about.

Star fruit is not only visually appealing but also a versatile and nutritious addition to various diets.

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