Jamaica is home to a myriad of delicious and tasty fruits. Though many of the fruits did not originate here, over the years they have been able to thrive in the island’s tropical climate and have grown to become delicacies. Some of these fruits include star fruit, orange, pineapple and jackfruit.

These fruits are not only tasty and enjoyed by many Jamaicans, but they have several health benefits.

In Our Today‘s series on the health benefits provided by Jamaica-found fruits, the focus is now on the star fruit.

Believed to have originated in Sri Lanka, the star fruit has also been named the carambola. The fruit is also grown in China, India and the Philippines.

Health Benefits

Good Night’s Sleep

Loaded with magnesium, the star fruit is able to help those who normally feel irritated, experience puffiness and bags, upon waking up.

Magnesium is a sleep promoting mineral, regulating the hormone melatonin, which guides the sleep cycle.

Helps Metabolism

Rich in riboflavin, pyridoxine (Vitamin B6), and folate, eating the star fruit can influence the metabolic process and make it more effective.

A faulty metabolism is the cause of many diseases.

Reduces Inflammation

Vitmain C found is the star fruit, has anti-inflammatory properties, and is able to reduce swelling in joints.

The flavanoids found in the fruit also have antioxidant properties. These metabolites are able to neutralise harmful free radicals and prevent them from causing the onset of diseases in the body.

Helps with Anaemia

Although the fruit may not have an abundance of iron, it has an abundance of Vitamin C, and this vitamin helps the body to absorb iron, leading to an increase in the production of red blood cells.

A lack of iron is a leading cause of anaemia. Having iron in the body or being able to absorb iron is essential to synthesise red blood cells and to carry oxygen to all parts of the body.

Improves digestion and bowel movement

The star fruit is a good source of fibre. Containing dietary fibre, the fruit is able to help with the ease of digestion and maintain bowel health. Dietary fibre can also lead to a better uptake in nutrients.

Improves the appearance of the skin

Antioxidants including vitamin C, polyphenolic flavonoids, gallic acid and quercetin function as counter effects for oxidative stress, thus, able to offset radicals before they cause damage to the skin.

Vitamin C also plays a role in collagen production, which in turn can minimise or prevent wrinkles and keeps the skin blemish free.