5 Amazing Benefits of the African Star Apple (Agbalumo)

The African Star Apple also known as Agbalumo, Udala, Ciwoh or African Cherry is currently in season. I do get excited when it is in season because it is one of my favourite fruits to eat.
The exotic fruit has a chewable edible skin that ranges in color from green to orange, depending on the stage of ripeness. The tender, sweet inner flesh is off-white with seeds making the inner to look like a star-shaped fruit. This obviously shows where it got the nickname ‘star apple’ and has a star shape formed by seeds through the middle of the fruit. The beautiful fruit can be gotten mostly everywhere in Nigeria towards the end of November till later in March when it would have gone out of season.



Vitamins and Minerals
Star apples serve as a good source of calcium, with each serving providing you with 10 percent of the amount you require each day. The calcium lends strength to your bones and teeth, and it may also lessen symptoms of premenstrual syndrome, such as cramping and abdominal bloating. This fruit also contains 5 percent of the daily recommended value per serving of vitamin C and vitamin A. Additionally, one serving of star apples serves up 2 percent of the iron, a mineral vital for oxygenating your body, that you need every day.
Helps Diabetic conditions
Star apples may have particular benefits for diabetics. Research published in the September 2009 edition of the “African Journal of Pharmacy and Pharmacology” indicates that the leaves of this fruit may reduce glucose levels in diabetic rabbits, the same function that insulin serves. Take note, however, that consuming star apple leaves appears to have a toxic affect when eaten in large quantities. More research is needed to determine the effectiveness of star apple leaves to control diabetes in humans.
Prevents Heart Disease.
Frequent consumption of the fruit can help lower blood sugar and cholesterol thereby preventing or managing heart diseases.it is a very good recommendation for patient with heart problems.
As with all fruits and food, moderation is key. Do not consume Agbalumo excessively because it could lead to heartburn. Before including it in your diet, ensure you contact your physician.
Helps You Lose Weight
Eating a serving of star apple contributes 3 g of fiber to the recommended daily intake of 25 to 38 g. Fiber provides bulk to your diet, a factor that can make your stomach feel fuller for longer. This can keep you from eating too much, and it may help you lose weight. This nutrient can also help protect you from diabetes and some forms of cancer.
Natural Remedy
The agbalumo/udara is a natural remedy for toothache, constipation, sore throat, and much more. Also the bark of the tree according to research was used traditionally to treat yellow fever and malaria, while the leaf treated wounds, stomach ache, and diarrhea.  In some parts of Nigeria the seeds are used to treat vaginal and skin infections.
Sources: www.informationng.com/www.eatwelllivewell.com.ng

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