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6 healthy fruits you should be eating

6 healthy fruits you should be eating 

 

Craving some chips? In the mood for a beer? 

Reach for fruit instead. Okay, we know it’s not as indulgent as a can of Pringles but fruit isn’t just for your kids’ lunch boxes. 

Good to know: according to the US Centers for Disease Control (CDC), as age takes its toll, men are at risk for heart disease, respiratory diseases and cancer. 

Fruit, in its natural sources, has many essential vitamins and nutrients that can boost your overall health and keep you healthy. 

Here are six fruits to make friends with right now. 

 

Walnuts

Nuts are always cited as healthy food items thanks to their high levels of protein, fat and fibre. Walnuts aren’t typically popular, but they should be as they contain good doses of the above as well as being a rich source of antioxidants. Antioxidants help repair oxidative damage in the body, especially that caused by high levels of LDL cholesterol. 

 

Berries 

Pretty much all berries are good berries, and by good, we mean great! Opt for strawberries, raspberries, blackberries, blueberries, cranberries or goji berries to unlock fruitful sources of fibre, vitamins and minerals. Berries are super health helpers for reducing high blood sugar levels, improving digestion, fighting inflammation and lowering high cholesterol levels. 

 

Citrus fruit

Think citrus, think Vitamin C. Naartjies, grapefruit, oranges and other citrus fruits contain soluble fibre and nutrients that are said to increase healthy HDL cholesterol while lowering the harmful cholesterol. Vitamin C is also a key health aide for wound healing and skin conditions.

 

Apples

We all know that an apple a day is meant to keep the doctor away. Turns out, there’s truth to that age-old trope. These crunchy treats are filled with fibre and antioxidants and may help lower your risk for cancer, heart disease and diabetes. Smear a few slices with a dab of peanut butter to up the protein power and enjoy a hearty snack that will satisfy any sweet craving.

 

Pomegranates

Tiny but powerful. While this research was conducted many years ago, scientists at the University of California found heartening evidence about pomegranates. “Researchers have identified components in pomegranate juice that both inhibit the movement of cancer cells and weaken their attraction to a chemical signal that promotes the metastasis of prostate cancer to the bone.” The seeds are the nutrient-packed bits, and you can easily eat them whole or add to smoothies or salads.

 

Dried fruit

Don’t skip past the dried fruit aisle. You’re missing out on good sources of iron, which is necessary for the formation of red blood cells. They also have fibre and antioxidants to help protect against heart disease, some cancer variants and obesity. Snack on dried apricots, figs and raisins. 

 

Tip

Try to stick to whole fruit in its natural form (washed, of course!). Fruit juices sound healthy but are usually packed with sugar. Also, if fresh fruit is too expensive, shop in the frozen section. Frozen fruit retains a lot of their nutrients as they’re frozen during the harvest season. Again, check the packaging to ensure there’s no added sugar and you’re good to go.

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Disclaimer

This article is for informational purposes only. Always check with your doctor or medical practitioner about any health concerns, before embarking on any fitness or nutrition programme, and usage of any medication.