100 grams of star apple provides more than 100% of the recommended dietary allowances (RDA) of vitamin C from a 2000 calorie diet.
It will provide you with about 10 times more vitamin C than cashew and guava.
- It is highly nutritious
The number of nutrients found in 100 grams of African star apples are as follows:
Energy (Kcal): 119 Kcal
Protein: 4 grams (g)
Fiber: 4g
Potassium: 34% of required dietary allowances (RDA)
Calcium: 39% of RDA
Phosphorus: 25% of RDA
Iron: 13% of RDA
Magnesium: 43% of RDA
Zinc: 56% of RDA
Niacin: 9.4% of RDA
Riboflavin: 51% of RDA
B-CAROTENE (Vitamin A): 5.7% of RDA
Ascorbic acid (Vitamin C): 141% of RDA
It is also rich in manganese and copper minerals required for the proper function of your immune system.
Note: the required dietary allowance is the number of nutrients your body needs from daily 2000-calorie diet.
- African star apples are diabetes-friendly
The high fiber content of African star apple makes it a diabetes-friendly fruit.
Research has shown that foods with high fiber content reduce fasting blood sugar levels and ensures better glycemic control in people with type 2 diabetes.
- Helps protect heart health
Star apple is particularly low in sodium but high in potassium and calcium. This makes it an ideal fruit for people with high blood pressure who need to reduce their salt intake.
Additionally, fruits high in dietary fiber help lower the risk of hypertension, stroke, cancer, diabetes, and other metabolic disorders.
- Rich in antioxidants
Antioxidants are substances that help fight compounds that cause cell damage.
The fruit pulp of star apple is high in polyphenols, ascorbic acid, B-carotene, and atocopherol (Vitamin E) - coupled with dietary fiber, they have been found to prevent metabolic disorders like cancer, diabetes, obesity, coronary heart disease, e.t.c.
- Good for pregnant women
African star apple is rich in calcium, phosphorus and potassium– minerals needed for electrolyte balance and development of strong bones and teeth in the unborn baby. Due to its high ascorbic acid content, the unripe fruit has a strong sour taste that helps reduce excessive salivation and nausea in pregnant women.