Calories in Star Apple: Nutritional facts for Star Apple Types

One hundred grams (3.5 oz) of raw star apple pulp contains 67 calories.

One kilogram (1,000 g or 35.3 oz) of raw star apple pulp contains 670 calories.

One cup of sliced star apple pulp weighing 150 g (5.3 oz) contains 101 calories.

One medium raw star apple fruit providing 165 g (5.8 oz) of edible pulp contains 111 calories. A large fruit providing 230 g (8.1 oz) of pulp contains 154 calories. A small fruit providing 100 g (3.5 oz) of pulp offers 67 calories.

Star apple provides some health benefits like aiding digestive regularity and supporting skin health due to its high fiber and Vitamin C content. This tropical fruit, frequently called "caimito," "milk fruit," or "purple star apple," is valued for its unique phytochemical profile. A list of the health benefits of star apples are shown below.

• Promotes Digestive Wellness: The 3.1 g of fiber per 100 g (3.5 oz) serving increases stool bulk and facilitates movement through the gut. Research by Anderson et al. (2009), "Health benefits of dietary fiber," confirms that fruit fiber is essential for preventing constipation and supporting the gut microbiome.
• Enhances Immune Function: A 100 g (3.5 oz) serving delivers 15 mg of Vitamin C, which stimulates the production of white blood cells. A study by Carr and Maggini (2017), "Vitamin C and Immune Function," found that ascorbic acid is vital for various cellular functions of the immune system.
• Provides Antioxidant Support: The fruit contains polyphenols such as gallic acid and anthocyanins that neutralize free radicals. Research by Luo et al. (2002), "Antioxidant activity of polyphenolic compounds from star apple," demonstrated that these compounds help prevent oxidative damage to cells.
• Supports Bone Integrity: The presence of calcium and phosphorus in a 2:1 ratio helps maintain skeletal strength and tooth mineral density.
• Aids in Blood Pressure Regulation: Potassium levels assist in vasodilatation, which reduces strain on the cardiovascular system.
• Improves Skin Elasticity: Vitamin C serves as a required cofactor for collagen synthesis, helping to keep skin firm and reduce signs of aging.

Star apple has been known to cause some unwanted effects like severe constipation and oral irritation due to its high tannin and latex content. A list of the downsides of star apple are shown below.

• Induces Constipation if Overconsumed: The high concentration of tannins in the skin and the area near the seeds can act as an astringent, slowing down intestinal transit if too much is ingested.
• Triggers Oral Discomfort: The sticky white latex present in the fruit can leave a tacky residue on the lips and tongue, which some individuals find irritating.
• Poses a Choking Hazard: The fruit contains several large, slippery seeds that can be easily swallowed by accident, posing a risk for young children.

Yes, star apples are good for you because they deliver 11% of the DV for fiber and 17% of the DV for Vitamin C in every 100 g (3.5 oz) serving. Healthy individuals should consume 1 medium fruit (165 g pulp) per day to gain the benefits of bone-supporting minerals and antioxidants without excessive sugar intake. Research by Silva et al. (2010), "Antioxidant capacity of tropical fruits," found that caimito possesses a higher antioxidant capacity than many common temperate fruits. The major benefits include improved bowel function and protection against systemic inflammation. It is an ideal addition to a balanced diet for those seeking a nutrient-dense tropical fruit with low fat content.

The calories in star apples change based on the sugar concentration and the specific cultivar of the fruit. Purple star apples contain 70 calories per 100 g (3.5 oz) because they tend to develop higher fructose levels during ripening compared to other varieties. Green star apples provide 64 calories per 100 g (3.5 oz) as they often maintain a slightly higher moisture content. Processing into fruit preserves or syrups represents the most significant increase, where the energy count can surge to over 250 calories per 100 g (3.5 oz) due to the addition of cane sugar.

The origin of the star apple is the West Indies and Central America, where it was first cultivated by indigenous populations. Spanish explorers encountered the fruit in the early 1500s and eventually distributed the seeds to other tropical territories including the Philippines and Southeast Asia. The fruit is named "star apple" because a horizontal cross-section of the fruit reveals a star-shaped pattern formed by the seed chambers. Today, the fruit is most culturally integrated in the Philippines and Vietnam, where specialized cultivars are grown for local consumption and limited regional export.