Peter Okoye, PBA Journalism MenteeAfrican star apple is a native fruit that grows in tropical countries like Nigeria, Ghana, and Uganda. It contains many nutrients that are beneficial for healthy living. Its scientific name is Chrysophyllum album and it belongs to the sapotaceous family. Its health benefits include:
It is highly nutritious
100 grams of star apple provides more than 100% of the recommended dietary allowances (RDA) of vitamin C from a 2000-calorie diet.
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The number of nutrients found in 100 grams of African star apples includes the following:
Energy (Kcal): 119 kcal
Protein: 4 grams (g)
Fibre: 4 g
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
β-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.
Meanwhile, it is necessary to note that the required dietary allowance is the number of nutrients your body needs from a daily 2000-calorie diet.
African star apples are diabetes-friendly
The high fibre content of the African star apple makes it a diabetes-friendly fruit.
Research has shown that foods with high fibre content reduce fasting blood sugar levels and ensures better glycemic control in people with type 2 diabetes.
Helps in ensuring a healthy heart
African star apple is also an ideal fruit for people with high blood pressure who need to reduce their salt intake because of its low sodium but high potassium and calcium.
In addition, fruits high in dietary fibre help lower the risk of hypertension, stroke, cancer, diabetes, and other metabolic disorders.
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May promote weight loss
African star apple is particularly low in carbohydrates and sugar making it an ideal fruit for anyone trying to lose weight.
Its high fibre content also helps to promote a feeling of fullness and satiety – helping you to stay full for longer periods.
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, β-carotene, and α-Tocopherol (Vitamin E) – coupled with dietary fibre, they have been found to prevent metabolic disorders like cancer, diabetes, obesity, and coronary heart disease.
Good for pregnant women
The apple is also rich in calcium, phosphorus, and potassium – minerals needed for electrolyte balance and the development of strong bones and teeth in the unborn baby.
Due to its high ascorbic acid content, the unripe fruit has a strong sour-sweet taste that helps reduce excessive salivation and nausea in pregnant women.
Helps prevent cold and cough
The high vitamin C and zinc content of star apples may help strengthen your immune system and prevent respiratory tract infections, like catarrh and cough.
Helps in digestive health
The high dietary fibre content of star apple fruits also helps to prevent constipation in elderly and pregnant women.
It also protects gut health and prevents colon disease.
African star apples are incredibly healthy fruits for you, and eating them amounts to a lower risk of many major diseases, including diabetes and cancer.
In addition, its high fibre content may promote weight loss and prevent colon disease.
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