1 serving (100 grams) contains 31 calories, 1.0 grams of protein, 0.3 grams of fat, and 6.7 grams of carbohydrates.
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Nutrition Information
Calories |
31 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 0.3 g | 0% | |
| Saturated Fat | 0.0 g | 0% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 0.2 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 0 mg | 0% | |
| Sodium | 2 mg | 0% | |
| Total Carbohydrates | 6.7 g | 2% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 2.8 g | 10% | |
| Sugars | 4.0 g | ||
| protein | 1.0 g | 2% | |
| Vitamin D | 0 mcg | 0% | |
| Calcium | 3 mg | 0% | |
| Iron | 0.1 mg | 0% | |
| Potassium | 133 mg | 2% | |
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily values may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
Food Attributes
Source of Calories
About Starfruit
Starfruit, also known as carambola, is a tropical fruit originating from Southeast Asia and widely enjoyed in various Asian, Caribbean, and South American cuisines. Shaped like a five-pointed star when sliced, it has a mildly sweet and tangy flavor. Starfruit is low in calories (31 per 100g) but rich in essential nutrients like dietary fiber (2.8g), vitamin C (34.4 mg, covering about 57% of the daily recommended intake), and small amounts of calcium and iron. Its vibrant yellow-green color and unique appearance make it a garnish favorite for salads, desserts, and beverages. Starfruit is hydrating, given its high water content, and can be consumed fresh or used in recipes like chutneys and jams.
Health Benefits
- Supports immune health due to its high vitamin C content (34.4 mg per 100g).
- Aids digestion and promotes gut health with its dietary fiber content (2.8g per 100g).
- Low in calories and carbohydrates, making it a suitable fruit for weight management or low-carb diets.
- Rich in antioxidants from vitamin C and plant compounds, which help combat oxidative stress.
- Promotes hydration due to its high water content, assisting in electrolyte balance.
Dietary Considerations
Selection and Storage
Store whole starfruits at room temperature until they ripen fully, turning yellow with slightly brown edges on the ridges. Once ripe, refrigerate for up to a week to maintain freshness. Wash thoroughly before consumption.
Common Questions About Starfruit Nutrition
Is starfruit high in protein?
Starfruit is not high in protein, providing approximately 1.04 grams of protein per 100 grams. While it can contribute a small amount of protein to your diet, it is primarily valued for its fiber, low calorie content, and vitamins.
Can I eat starfruit on a keto diet?
Starfruit can be included in a keto diet in moderation due to its relatively low carbohydrate content of 6.73 grams per 100 grams, of which 2.8 grams is fiber. It's a lower-carb fruit option compared to many others, but portion control is essential to stay within your daily carb limits.
What are the health benefits or risks of eating starfruit?
Starfruit is rich in antioxidants, vitamin C, and fiber, making it excellent for boosting immunity and supporting digestive health. However, individuals with kidney issues should avoid it, as it contains oxalates, which may worsen kidney problems or lead to toxicity in some cases.
What is the recommended serving size for starfruit?
A common serving size of starfruit is around 100 grams, equivalent to one medium-sized fruit, which contains only 31 calories. This portion size provides a good balance of nutrients and is particularly low in sugar compared to other fruits.
How does starfruit compare to other fruits, and how should I prepare it?
Starfruit is lower in calories and sugar than many fruits like apples or mangoes, while still providing fiber and vitamin C. To prepare, wash the fruit thoroughly, slice it into star-shaped cross-sections, and remove any seeds before eating. It can be enjoyed raw, in salads, or as a garnish.
Data Sources & Scientific References
Our nutrition data comes from trusted, authoritative sources to ensure accuracy and reliability. Below are specific scientific references and authoritative sources for this food item.
- USDA FoodData - Starfruit DataU.S. Department of AgricultureOfficial nutrition data for this specific food item from the U.S. Department of Agriculture's comprehensive food database.
- Starfruit: Health Benefits and PrecautionsNational Center for Biotechnology Information (NCBI)Peer-reviewed research overview of starfruit's nutritional benefits, vitamin C content, and potential health risks for kidney patients.
- Vitamin C Fact Sheet for Health ProfessionalsNIH Office of Dietary SupplementsDetailed explanation of vitamin C’s benefits, dietary sources including starfruit, and reference intake recommendations.
- Nutritional and Functional Properties of Starfruit (Averrhoa carambola): An OverviewJournal of Functional FoodsScientific review of starfruit's nutrient composition, bioactive compounds, and health effects.
Additional Authoritative Sources:
Daily value percentages based on FDA guidelines. Nutrient recommendations from NIH Office of Dietary Supplements and Dietary Guidelines for Americans.
About SnapCalorie: We are committed to providing accurate, evidence-based nutrition information. Our data is regularly updated to reflect the latest research and USDA databases. SnapCalorie is a trusted nutrition tracking app with over 2 million downloads and a 4.8/5 star rating.
