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 An apple a day keeps the doctor away. We’ve all heard the saying before, but are we truly aware of the many health benefits fruit has for our bodies? Fruit plays a major role in our digestive track, because many various fruits act as a natural laxative and help our bodies during the digestive process. Fruit provides roughage and fiber which is vital in aiding our bodies in getting rid of waste.
Mineral potassium and Vitamin A and C also come from fruit. Potassium is important because it works hand in hand in hand with sodium to contract and expand muscles, maintain water balance between cells, and transmit nerve impulses. Fruits that are high in potassium include:
- Bananas
- Oranges
- Grapefruits
- Tomatoes
- Apricots
- Pineapples
Apricots, cantaloupe, and any other deep yellow fruits are a good source of beta carotene, which converts Vitamin A inside the human body. It has been believed that there could possibly be a link between beta carotene and the prevention of certain types of cancer.
 Vitamin C is beneficial to our diet because it helps form the collagen that gives structure to bones, cartilage, and muscles. Vitamin C also helps our bodies absorb iron from foods. Roughly two-thirds of the Vitamin C in our diets comes from fruits. Fruits that are the best sources of Vitamin C are citrus fruits such as oranges, grapefruits, and lemons. Keep in mind that berries are also a good source of the vitamin.
Research also shows that certain fruits are rich in antioxidants. Antioxidants give you the anti-aging protection against degenerate diseases and helps slow down the aging process of the skin, tissues, and organs. They have been proven to protect human cells from oxidative damage and provide stronger immune resistance to flues, viruses, and infections, reduce incidence of all cancers, prevent glaucoma and macular degeneration, reduce risk of cholesterol-oxidation and heart disease, and fights aging of cells and overall body. The best fruits to get antioxidants are:
- Berries
- Oranges
- Pink grapefruit
- Apricots
- Plums
- Peaches
- Red grapes
- Papaya
If you are like most Americans, you would most likely benefit from eating more fruits. That’s because most Americans eat only about 10 servings of fruit and juices each week, which is far less than the recommended two to four servings per day.
According to the Web site www.fruitsandveggiesmorematters.org, here are the top 10 reasons to eat more fruits and vegetables:
10. Color & Texture. Fruits and veggies add color, texture … and appeal … to your plate.
9. Convenience. Nutritious in any form - fresh, frozen, canned, dried and 100% juice, so they’re ready when you are!
8. Fiber. Fruits and veggies provide fiber that helps fill you up and keeps your digestive system happy.
7. Low in Calories. Fruits and veggies are naturally low in calories.
6. May Reduce Disease Risk. Eating plenty of fruits and veggies may help reduce the risk of many diseases, including heart disease, high blood pressure, and some cancers.
5. Vitamins & Minerals. Fruits and veggies are rich in vitamins and minerals that help you feel healthy and energized.
4. Variety. Fruits and veggies are available in an almost infinite variety…there’s always something new to try!
3. Quick, Natural Snack. Fruits and veggies are nature’s treat and easy to grab for a snack.
2. Fun to Eat! Some crunch, some squirt, some you peel … some you don’t, and some grow right in your own backyard!
1. Taste Great!
Now that you know the facts of fruit, you can take every step needed toward adding more fruit to your diet so you and your family can be as healthy as possible. Please click here for a printable pdf chart on What’s in a ½ cup of Fruit, Fruits and Veggies More Matters.
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