Is it Safe to Eat Starfruit in Pregnancy?

While pregnant, you’re bound to crave for unusual foods. If all of a sudden you crave for starfruit during pregnancy, then you can’t just eat it like you would have done before pregnancy. You should first find out if you can consume it during pregnancy.

The good news is that you can eat ‘starfruit’ can be consumed during pregnancy. Star fruit, which is popularly known as Carambola, aids in a healthy pregnancy. It is a rich source of vitamins A, C, and E. It also contains calcium, potassium, phosphorus, folic acid, sodium, magnesium, and fibre etc. This fruit provides relief from headaches, fever, cough, and hypertension. However, it is still recommended that you consult a doctor first before eating starfruit in pregnancy.

What Is Starfruit?

Starfruit is the fruit of a species of a tree found in Malaysia, Nepal, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, Philippines, and India. The fruit has some distinctive ridges on the sides. It resembles a star when cut in cross-section. The whole fruit is edible. It can be cooked and preserved and can be consumed in the form of juice too (1).

Is Eating Starfruit Good During Pregnancy?

Starfruit is good for pregnancy. Starfruit is consumed for its medicinal properties and is used as a natural cure for several diseases. It has a slightly acidic flavour which is more like the taste of plums, pineapples, or lemons. It has a hint of pungent flavour and is usually sweet in taste. It is full of nutritional benefits and is even good for health. However, people who have kidney disease should avoid eating star fruit as it can be extremely harmful and can cause serious illness.

Nutritional Value of Starfruit

Source: https://www.nutrition-and-you.com/star-fruit.html

Health Benefits of Eating Starfruit for Pregnant Women

In the pregnant woman’s cravings list, star fruit is one of them. This sweet and sour taste of starfruit known as carambola makes it tempting. Let’s see the starfruit benefits in pregnancy:

1. Raises the Immunity Level

Starfruit increases immunity and endurance level. It prepares the immune system to fight against harmful bacteria and viruses and thus prevents the production of free radicals in the body (2).

2. Good for Eye Health

As an excellent source of vitamin A, star fruit maintains good eye health. It also nourishes your eyes, and your eyes are protected from infections and disorders. Eating star fruit while pregnant can also cure sore eyes.

3. Treats Digestive Disorders

Constipation is a common problem that most pregnant women complain of. Eating star fruit can cure constipation and other digestive disorders. This nutritious fruit can also treat diarrhoea. But before you consume star fruit for treating digestive problems, it is recommended that you consult a doctor first.

4. Lowers High Blood Pressure

Star fruit for pregnancy has high potassium content which helps in lowering the high blood pressure during pregnancy (3).

5. Ensures Smooth Flow of Urine

Starfruit, from ancient times, has acted as a diuretic, ensuring the smooth functioning of the urinary tract. During pregnancy, it will even be better if you drink star fruit juice with a dash of honey.

6. Lowers the Risk of Cancer

Starfruit is rich in antioxidants and can help prevent the development of cancer cells during pregnancy.

7. Lowers High Cholesterol Levels

If star fruit is consumed regularly, it minimizes the levels of bad cholesterol. It also prevents health issues caused due to the presence of high cholesterol in the body.

8. Reduces Oral Infections

Drinking fresh starfruit juice can cure viral infections, influenza, and mouth infections. Consuming star fruit can also boost stamina and energy.

9. Regulates Hormones and Controls Stress

Starfruit helps prevent cramps in pregnant women . It even helps in regulating the hormones and provides relief from pregnancy stress.

10. Promotes Healthy Growth of the Baby

Starfruit is a rich source of vitamins, carbohydrates, and minerals. All these nutrients promote the healthy growth of the baby in pregnancy.

11. Enhances Skin Health

Starfruit contains vitamin C and other antioxidants that are beneficial for skin health. These nutrients help in protecting the skin from oxidative damage and promoting collagen production, which can enhance the skin’s elasticity and overall appearance. This is particularly beneficial during pregnancy, as hormonal changes can sometimes cause skin issues.

12. Supports Hydration

Staying hydrated is crucial during pregnancy, and starfruit can contribute significantly to this. Being high in water content, it helps maintain the balance of fluids in the body, which is essential for both the mother’s and baby’s health. Regular consumption of starfruit can also aid in preventing dehydration, a common concern during pregnancy.

How to Include Star Fruit in Your Pregnancy Diet?

Here’s how you can safely and deliciously include star fruit in your diet to harness its health-promoting properties.

• Fresh Star Fruit Slices: The simplest way to enjoy star fruit is by eating it fresh. Wash the fruit thoroughly, slice it into thin pieces (removing the seeds if preferred), and enjoy as a quick, hydrating snack. Its crisp texture and refreshing taste make it a delightful treat.
• Star Fruit Smoothie: Blend star fruit with other pregnancy-safe fruits like bananas and apples to make a nutritious smoothie. Add a bit of yogurt or a splash of coconut water for a creamy texture and extra hydration. This smoothie is a great way to start your day or recharge in the afternoon.
• Star Fruit Salad: Incorporate thin slices of star fruit into salads. Combine with mixed greens, avocado, nuts, and a light dressing for a healthy lunch option. The unique flavor of star fruit complements both sweet and savory ingredients, enhancing the overall nutritional profile of your salad.
• Star Fruit Juice: Juice star fruit for a refreshing drink. Mix it with other juices like orange or carrot to balance its tartness and boost nutrient intake. Always ensure the juice is fresh and consume it shortly after preparation to get the maximum benefits.
• Cooked Star Fruit: Add star fruit to your cooked dishes. It can be a tangy addition to stir-fries, seafood dishes or even as a topping on baked chicken. Cooking star fruit can soften its acidity and blend well with other flavors in savory meals.

FAQs

1. How much star fruit can I safely eat during pregnancy?

While star fruit is healthy, moderation is key. As with any fruit, excessive consumption can lead to digestive upset or other issues. A safe guideline might be to limit intake to one star fruit per day or to include it as part of a balanced diet several times a week.

2. Can eating star fruit help with pregnancy symptoms?

Star fruit can contribute to alleviating some common pregnancy symptoms. For instance, its high fiber content can help prevent constipation, a frequent complaint during pregnancy. Additionally, its hydrating nature and mix of essential nutrients can aid in maintaining overall hydration and nutritional balance, potentially easing symptoms like fatigue and nausea.

This was all about starfruit while pregnant. For the umpteen benefits it offers, starfruit is a good choice during pregnancy. It has a slightly tangy flavour, and some find it as a mix of lemon and pineapple. So, if you don’t like its tangy flavour, you can mix it with other drinks and dishes, and then consume. But do consult a doctor before you include it in your pregnancy diet, especially if you have high-risk factors complicating your pregnancy.

References/Resources:

1. Muthu. N, Lee. S, Phua. K, Bhore. S; Nutritional, Medicinal and Toxicological Attributes of Star-Fruits (Averrhoa carambola L.): A Review (Bioinformation); National Library of Medicine; https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5357571/; December 2016

2. Lakmal. K, Yasawardene. P, Jayarajah. U, Seneviratne. S; Nutritional and medicinal properties of Star fruit (Averrhoa carambola): A review (Food Science & Nutrition); National Library of Medicine; https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7958541/; March 2021

3. Hypertensive Disorders in Pregnancy and Mortality at Delivery Hospitalization — United States, 2017–2019; Centers for Disease Control and Prevention; https://www.cdc.gov/mmwr/volumes/71/wr/mm7117a1.htm

4. Why You Should Avoid Eating Starfruit; National Kidney Foundation; https://www.kidney.org/atoz/content/why-you-should-avoid-eating-starfruit

5. Singh. R, Sharma. J, Goyal. P; Prophylactic Role of Averrhoa carambola (Star Fruit) Extract against Chemically Induced Hepatocellular Carcinoma in Swiss Albino Mice (Advances in Pharmacological and Pharmaceutical Sciences); National Library of Medicine; https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3950398/; February 2014

6. Starfruit; Wisconsin Department of Public Instruction; https://dpi.wi.gov/

7. Wijayaratne. D, Bavanthan. V, de Silva. M, Nazar. A, Wijewickrama. E; Star fruit nephrotoxicity: a case series and literature review (BMC Nephrology); National Library of Medicine; https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6198447/; October 2018

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