The starfruit is an exotic fruit, originating from a tree called Averrhoa carambola, native to India and well known in China.

The fruit provides several health benefits, because it contains many nutrients and substances that have antioxidant action in the body, but when it is consumed in excess, it can be harmful to the kidneys because it contains a high concentration of oxalates.

The carambola was introduced to Brazil in 1817, and is grown almost everywhere in the country, but is most popular in the Northeast. It is easiest to find it in the markets during the months of June, July, and August, but sometimes it is grown all year round, making it more easily accessible.

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The ways of consuming the starfruit are extremely varied according to each region. When ripe, they are ingredients in salads, the preparation of juices, jellies, syrups, and it is also worth emphasizing that their pure juice is used to season food. Besides human consumption, the juice of the starfruit can be useful for removing stains (when it comes to cleaning) and for polishing metals.

There are rumors that the star fruit is bad for your health, and as we mentioned above, if consumed in excess can be harmful to the kidneys. The truth is, people with kidney problems should not exaggerate in the consumption of fruit, because in 2017, the University Malaya Medical Centre, made a study that proved that the star fruit represents in some cases, risks for these people, by the presence of a neurotoxinnot found in other fruits.

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The fact is that this toxin does not offer risks to those who have a healthy body, because it is capable of eliminating all the toxins in a natural way. Those who have kidney problems, however, can be affected by the toxin, because the kidneys will have difficulty eliminating them.

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The carambola is a fruit that has innumerable benefits to the organism because it is rich in phosphorus, calcium, and iron, and because it is a source of vitamins A, B complex, and C, as well as containing antioxidants.

Here are some benefits of the fruit:

1 - Improves bowel function: Because it is rich in fiber, the carambola prevents constipation and constipation, helping the bowels to function properly;

2 - Digestion: Also because it is rich in fiber, fruit has the power to improve the digestion of food;

3 - Helps prevent colds: Everyone knows that vitamin C is an indispensable substance when a cold presents itself. The star fruit is rich in this vitamin, which decreases the body's infections and strengthens immunity;

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4 - Hydration: The fruit has in its composition a large amount of water, thus being a favorable way to hydrate the body and avoid skin dryness;

5 - Healthy weight loss: Because it is low in calories, the star fruit can be consumed in diets, because it provides a feeling of satiety and also strengthens the body with its nutrients;

6 - Maintains skin health: The antioxidants that are present in the carambola's composition fight premature aging and also help with problems such as acne and blackheads.

In addition to these 6 benefits, some studies over the years have proven that the carambola can benefit the body even more, because:

- It has the power to prevent liver cancer;

- It lowers the cholesterol level;

- It helps prevent the formation of fat cells;

- It acts as an anti-inflammatory;

- It reduces fever;

- Prevents scurvy;

- It stimulates the appetite;

- Its seeds can relieve colic and asthma attacks.

Focus on the benefits of the fruit and remember: consume any food consciously!