As part of a balanced diet, fruits are essential for maintaining good health. Beyond all the weight loss hype and all the supplements that are introduced on a regular basis, it all starts with eating right. Numerous studies have shown that people who eat a well-balanced diet, which includes plenty of fruits and vegetables, tend to live longer, healthier lives. The best thing about fruits is that you can have them any time. Whether you’re on the go, or just looking for a quick snack, fruits are very convenient.
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The following list provides information about ten fruits that you should add to your diet for maintaining good health.
1. Apples
No doubt you’ve heard the old adage “an apple a day…” well it’s truer than you think. Apples are a great way to increase your intake of fiber. Diets high in fiber lower the risk of heart disease and help prevent constipation. Apples contain antioxidants, which have positive effects on the heart. It minimizes the risk of cancer. Its antioxidants are known to help prevent aging. Luckily some varieties of apples are available year-round.
2. Apricots
This relative of the peach has a lovely orange color and can usually be had year-round. However, in North America apricots are in season from May to August. Apricots available outside this period are often imported from New Zealand or South America. This nutrient-rich fruit is beneficial for the body in many ways. Apricots are full of potassium and iron, as well as vitamins A, C, and E.
3. Bananas
Considered by many to be a great power snack is quite popular with active people. For their size, they pack quite the carbohydrate punch and contain healthy sugar. Bananas are also a great source of potassium and fiber. This fruit is usually available throughout the year.
4. Blackberries
The tiny blackberry contains high levels of antioxidants and vitamins B1, B2, C, and E. They are credited with helping to prevent cancer and heart disease.
5. Blueberries
This modest fruit grows on a shrub and is in season between May to October. For all their nutritional goodness, their caloric count is quite low. They make the ideal snack for anyone trying to lose weight while maintaining a healthy diet. Blueberries help to promote brain health and prevent high blood pressure. They are also known for their high antioxidant content.
6. Muskmelon
This name actually incorporates a number of different types, including what is commonly called cantaloupes. Some types, while not grown in the US, are still very popular among health-conscious dieters. The fruit tends to be sweet and contains folate, beta-carotene, citric acid, and vitamins A, B, and C among others. Anyone seeking to add more potassium to his or her diet should certainly consider this fruit.
7. Kiwifruit
This fruit is famous for its high vitamin C content. With its distinctive hairy skin, it is hard to miss. They can be had throughout the year as they are grown in California and imported from New Zealand when they are out of season. They make a great addition to fruit salads.
8. Grapefruit
Whether you choose a plain, pink, or red grapefruit, there are a number of benefits to be had. They possess a soluble fiber, which can help to lower blood pressure and cholesterol. The red and pink varieties contain potassium, calcium, and beta-carotene. The grapefruit is also known as a digestive aid. So if you’re in the habit of having a grapefruit now and then with breakfast, you should stick with it.
9. Mangoes
There are many different varieties of this fruit, but they all contain beta-carotene and vitamin C. Termed a super fruit by some, one taste will reveal why this fruit is so popular. Even its skin is a good source of fiber. Mangoes contain a high level of phytochemicals which covers a number of compounds known to promote good health.
10. Strawberries
Being very tasty is not enough for this speckled heart-shaped fruit. There are over 600 varieties of strawberries. With high ellagic acid content, and high levels of vitamin C and phytonutrients, this is certainly one of the most nutritious fruits available, plus they are extremely tasty.
Fruits are a relatively inexpensive way of increasing your intake of vital nutrients. Apart from all the nutrients mentioned above, they offer a tasty and convenient way to improve health without the need for synthetic products. In fact, a diet consisting of large amounts of fruits cuts the need for supplements.
Hope you enjoyed our guide about ten fruits that you should add to your diet for maintaining good health.
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