The Surprising Health Benefits of the African Star Apple

 The Surprising Health Benefits of the African Star Apple

 Although the African star apple isn’t exactly a common find in most U.S. supermarkets, it’s native to tropical regions of Africa and Asia and has been eaten as food by these cultures for centuries. In Nigeria, it is called Agbalumo in Yoruba and Udara in Igbo. While many people in the United States may have never heard of the fruit, however, it has some impressive health benefits that make it worth considering if you’re looking to eat healthier. Whether you just want more information about the African star apple or are looking to increase your intake of the fruit, here are some of its amazing health benefits.

 

All About the African Star Apple

The African star apple is a small, round fruit that grows on trees in tropical climates. The skin of the fruit is thin and smooth, with a deep red or purple colour. The flesh of the fruit is white or pink, with a jelly-like texture. The African star apple is rich in vitamins and minerals and has many health benefits. It contains vitamin C, beta carotene, manganese, potassium, magnesium, and phosphorus. It also contains antioxidants that help to fight cancer cells. Eating this fruit can improve vision due to its high levels of vitamin A. The African star apple's high-water content makes it an excellent source of hydration. Due to the fruit's natural sweetness, it is often eaten as a snack or dessert.

 All About Vitamin C

Vitamin C is one of the most important vitamins our bodies need. It helps form collagen, which is a key protein in our skin, bones, and blood vessels. Vitamin C also helps our bodies absorb iron and fight off infection. The African star apple is an excellent source of this essential vitamin. Just one small fruit contains nearly half of the recommended daily amount of vitamin C. So if you're looking to boost your immune system or improve your skin health, be sure to add some African star apples to your diet!

But that's not all there is to know about vitamin C, especially as it relates to your overall health. Research suggests that consuming foods high in vitamin C may help prevent certain conditions like heart disease and osteoporosis by lowering cholesterol levels and strengthening blood vessel walls. They may even lower your risk for certain types of cancer too. Now isn't that something to think about? Plus, they taste great!

Side Note on Iron

Iron is found in food in two forms, heme and non-heme iron. Heme iron, which makes up 40 per cent of the iron in meat, poultry, and fish, is well absorbed. Non-heme iron, 60 per cent of the iron in animal tissue and all the iron in plants (fruits, vegetables, grains, nuts) is less well absorbed. Because fruits are a good source of non-heme iron, they can be a valuable part of a vegetarian diet. If you're not getting enough heme iron from your diet, try to eat more foods that contain vitamin C at the same time. Vitamin C helps your body absorb iron better.

 Extra Stuff

The African star apple is a delicious and nutritious fruit that has many health benefits. For one, it is a good source of fibre which can help with digestion. It is also high in vitamins and minerals, including vitamin C, potassium, and magnesium. Additionally, the African star apple has been shown to boost immunity, improve heart health, and even help with weight loss. So if you're looking for a healthy snack that's packed with nutrients, be sure to give the African star apple a try!