Star fruit and pomelo are two popular fruit choices during the Mid-Autumn Festival. Apart from simply "being festive", there are a good number of reasons to consume these fruits.
Weight loss
Mostly grown in China, Taiwan, and Southeast Asia, star fruit is the go-to fruit for many dieters due to its high water and low fat content. The same goes for pomelo which is primarily grown in China, Thailand, Argentina, Brazil, and Japan. The dietary fiber in both fruits also improves digestion and contributes to weight loss.1,2
Immune system booster
Both star fruit and pomelo are a great source of vitamin C, which strengthens immune system and prevents illness and infections.1,3
Clear skin and healthy hair
Star fruit is rich in zinc which helps battle many skin issues like acne.4 Meanwhile, nutrients in pomelo, such as zinc and vitamin B1, promote healthy hair.3
Better sleep
Star fruit and pomelo contain a high level of mineral magnesium which is a potent mineral that relaxes the body and is instrumental in quality sleep.1,5
Fun fact: Pomelo leaves can be used as a deodorant and in cooking!6
A word of caution: Star fruit can have a toxic effect on people who suffer from kidney disease. It is essential for those who have kidney disease not to consume star fruit.7
Buying tips: For star fruit, pick the golden yellow ones with no blackened edges. For pomelo, choose the glossy ones with a pointed head and a wide base.
Sources
- https://www.healthheadliner.com/health-benefits-of-starfruit/. Viewed on 02 Sep 2018.
- https://foodfacts.mercola.com/pomelo.html. Viewed on 02 Sep 2018.
- https://www.organicfacts.net/health-benefits/fruit/pomelo.html. Viewed on 02 Sep 2018.
- https://www.stylecraze.com/articles/benefits-of-star-fruit-for-skin-hair-and-health/#gref. Viewed on 02 Sep 2018.
- https://www.dovemed.com/healthy-living/natural-health/7-health-benefits-of-starfruit/. Viewed on 02 Sep 2018.
- https://school.eatsmart.gov.hk/en/template/index.asp?pid=2008&id=3354. Viewed on 02 Sep 2018.
https://www.kidney.org/atoz/content/why-you-should-avoid-eating-starfruit. Viewed on 02 Sep 2018.