The term “most nutritious fruits” probably seems a little strange, since we’ve been told that all fruits are good for us. Actually, that is an absolutely correct statement. However, there are fruits that provide more nutritious properties because of the specific vitamins and minerals present in them; along with all these nutrients are wonderful health benefits to be had. Don’t get me wrong, a fruit is a fruit, but there are some that have a little something extra; that little something means a lot when it comes to our health. Make sure to get your daily 3-5 servings of fruit!
Apples. An apple a day keeps the doctor away; how many times have we heard that one? Hundreds! But, there is a good point to that saying. A medium-sized apple contains only 80 calories and 0 grams of fat. Since they are also abundant in fiber, they keep us feeling full for longer; fiber also helps prevent diseases of the bowels.
Apricots. This tiny fruit provides plenty: antioxidants, vitamin C, lycopene, beta-carotene (which the body converts to vitamin A), potassium, and fiber.
Avocado. This fruit has been known as one of the healthiest for a long time. That’s because it is a nutritional powerhouse. It has many of the vitamins essential for living: A, B, C, and E. Many minerals are also abundant in avocadoes: copper, magnesium, potassium, and zinc. Avocadoes are rich in fiber, folate, niacin, thiamine, and riboflavin—a combination more potent than in any other fruit! Besides all that, they are rich in the healthy fats that we need in our daily diet: monounsaturated fats.
Bananas. Bananas are well known for their fiber and potassium content. Potassium is necessary for healthy functioning of the heart and other muscles. Bananas are easy to incorporate in the diet; try adding them to cereal or yogurt, or having them with a smidgen of peanut butter.
Blackberries. Blackberries are very rich in fiber. Eat one cup and you’ll get about 7.6 grams of fiber. They are a little seedy tasting, but they are great on top of ice cream or cereal with milk.
Blueberries. Blueberries are good brain food. They are one of the most powerful-antioxidant fruits, meaning they reduce the signs of aging and help fight off damaging free radicals. In addition, they promote the health of the urinary tract by preventing bacteria from sticking to the walls of the urinary tract.
Cantaloupe. A cup of cantaloupe contains just over the RDA of vitamin A and vitamin C. It is a great source of fiber, potassium, some of the B vitamins, folate, and digestive enzymes. In addition, they contain powerful antioxidants.
Cherries. Cherries are useful in treating conditions involving in inflammation, particularly arthritis. They are healthy for the heart because they provide anthocyanins (powerful antioxidants).
Grapefruit. Grapefruit is a wonderful fruit; in fact, there is a diet based off of them, even though this is a bit ludicrous. The idea is that since they have such a low glycemic index, they don’t cause blood sugar spikes and they help the body metabolize fat more efficiently. They contain vitamin C, carotenoids, fiber, phytochemicals, and pectin. Grapefruits are said to have cholesterol-lowering properties.
Mangoes. Mangoes, similar to other melons, have the RDA of vitamin A and then some. They are also rich in vitamin C, which helps with the immune system, among other benefits.
Oranges. Vitamin C, antioxidants, folic acid…these are the three things that make oranges so wonderful. They are one of the most powerful immune system enhancers.
Pomegranates. Pomegranates are very rich in powerful cancer-fighting antioxidants. They help reduce cancer and heart disease, and lower blood pressure and cholesterol levels.
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