Yes, carambola is a good source of vitamins, including vitamin C and other antioxidants. Carambola contains 38% of the daily recommended value (DV) of Vitamin C per 100g, which is higher than most fruits and vegetables. It also has dietary fiber, as well as vitamins A, B1, B2, and E.
Carambola's high concentration of vitamin C strengthens your immune system and helps fight against infections and free-radical damage that can cause diseases such as cancer. Vitamin C is an promising antioxidant which helps to protect the body from various illnesses and diseases by neutralizing oxidative stress on our cells. Additionally, it can help with skin health and reduces wrinkles and dark spots while improving collagen production.
Also known as starfruit, carambola is rich in minerals like iron, calcium, potassium and phosphorus - essential for healthy bones and muscles. Iron boosts red blood cell counts; calcium increases bone mineral density; and phosphorus aids in phospholipid metabolism, DNA synthesis, and efficient energy transfer. Potassium lowers blood pressure, keeps muscle cramps at bay, and balances nutrient levels within the cells to ensure proper functioning.
Overall, carambola is a nutritious fruit full of key vitamins and minerals that provide tremendous nutritional benefits – making them a great choice for maintaining regularity, immunity, skin health and muscle strength!
Carambola, also known as starfruit, is a tropical fruit that has become increasingly popular due to its unique flavor and numerous health benefits. While it’s enjoyed around the world for its sweet and sour taste, the carambola (Averrhoa carambola) is also renowned for its abundant supply of vitamins and minerals. This paper will explore the various vitamins found inside the carambola and how they contribute to overall health and wellness.
The most prominent vitamin in the carambola is Vitamin C, which adds greatly to the tartness of this tropical fruit. It is considered an antioxidant because it helps protect cells from oxidative damage caused by molecules called reactive oxygen species (ROS). In addition to boosting the immune system, Vitamin C helps improve the absorption of iron from foods such as red meat or spinach. As part of a healthy diet, the consumption of carambola can provide almost half the daily recommended dose of Vitamin C.
Another important vitamin contained within carambola is Vitamin A, otherwise referred to as retinol. Vitamin A is essential to proper vision and keeping the eyes healthy. Retinol works in tandem with beta-carotene, which is found in carambola, to help produce pigments in the eye tissue and keep inner structures like photoreceptors functioning properly. Furthermore, researchers believe that adequate intakes of Vitamin A could potentially reduce the risk of some forms of cancer1 2.
B Vitamins are another notable set of nutrients found in carambola, particularly B6 and Riboflavin (Vitamin B2). Vitamin B6 is involved in over 100 metabolic reactions in the body, aiding digestion, helping with cognitive function and reducing fatigue3. They play an essential role in fat storage and metabolism, ensuring efficient conversion of food into energy. On the other hand, Vitamin B2 contributes towards maintaining normal skin condition and muscle growth while enabling the formation of red blood cells.
Finally, several trace minerals are present in carambola which support overall health and well-being. Chief among these is potassium, which assists in regulating heart rhythm and controlling blood pressure. Potassium is also necessary for effective nerve transmission, fluid balance, and muscle contractility. Moreover, phosphorous is instrumental in strengthening bones and teeth, while magnesium helps relax muscles and improves sleep quality4. Calcium, zinc, iron, manganese and selenium have all been identified as minor spices added for nutritional richness in a single serving of carambola.
To sum up, carambolas are a naturally nutrient-dense source of dietary nutrition containing a wide selection of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. Rich in Vitamin C and Vitamin A, carambola can make an ideal snack when combined with the B Vitamins and trace elements. Together, these components aid in the maintenance of normal biological functions, contributing to greater health and wellbeing. However, individuals should bear in mind that consuming too much of any one type of carambola can lead to overdose, so exercise moderation and caution in their diets.
1. Am J Clin Nutr 2011;94:1476S–81S.
2. Carcinogenesis 2007;28:1861–8.
3. Avicenna J Phytomed 2014;4(5):393–403.
4. Nutrition Journals 2013;12:78.
Vitamin A | 0.003 mg | |
Beta-Carotene | 0.025 mg | |
Alpha-Carotene | 0.024 mg | |
Vitamin E | 0.15 mg | |
Vitamin C | 0.0344 grams | |
Vitamin B1 | 0.01 mg | |
Vitamin B2 | 0.02 mg | |
Vitamin B3 | 0.37 mg | |
Vitamin B4 | 0.0076 grams | |
Vitamin B5 | 0.39 mg | |
Vitamin B6 | 0.02 mg | |
Vitamin B9 | 0.012 mg |