Going to the grocery can be intimidating because there are so many options to choose from, "Which one should I get?" There are so many produce items! There is actually some good research on the subject of fruit and the best ones to chomp on. Listed below are some of my findings about the healthiest fruits for you, your kiddos and maybe even your dog.
How many fruits are there?
“An apple a day keeps the doctor away", that's what people don't go to the doctor say perhaps. There are around 2,000 different fruits!
Listen below are some of the best fruits:
- 🍏 An apple contains fiber and vitamin C, and it's a healthy snack that is a little sweet too because of the natural sugar.
- 🍓 Berries: These little snacks are delicious - strawberries, blueberries, raspberries – are all considered healthy. They're antioxidant powerhouses and taste great in breakfast bowls, adding both nutrition and color.
- 🍌 Bananas: These fun, easy-to-eat fruits are great not only as something to snack on but also to put in oatmeal or an ice cream dish. They contain heart-healthy vitaminB6 and potassium. There is something called tryptophan, which can effect serotonin levels which can help people get in a positive mood! More on this can be found here.
- 🟠 Orange: Vitamin C is the big deal in this fruit! It's a snack that can improve skin condition. It also helps with cell damage over time. Plus, it can make the body absorb iron better! Check out this research paper for even more in-depth research on this citrus food.
- 🍇 Grapes: I heard it from the grape vine that these little fruit snacks are healthy and sweet. The key power included in the grape is antioxidant. Now these things help the heart and improve cardio activity. So next time you eat a grape you might be able to prepare for that marathon run later in the year. For more research inside the grape checkout this study.
- 🥭 Papaya: This tropical fruit helps with the internal digestion. This research paper looked into the benefits of eating Papaya. Fermented papaya focus on its noninflammatory, antioxidant, anticancer, and anti-inflammatory properties. Fermented papaya can also be used in the cosmetic area due to its possible skin benefits.
- 🥑 Avocado: The highlight of this fruit is the healthy fats and fiber. Having an avocado in a salad or as a dip with some chips is a fantastic way to lean into this green colored fruit.
- 🍉 Watermelon: This huge green (on the outside) and red (on the inside) fruit is also on the list! It's got a lot of water so it can be hydrating. Plus there is something about bone health too according to this research paper. They tested rats to see what kind of effect this fruit has on them.
- 🍍 Pineapple: This sweet yellow fruit has an enzyme called bromelain, which is good for the body because it fights off sinus infections and can possibly be used for other health conditions. It also contains the vitamin C. This research paper dives into the pineapple on a deeper level.
- 🥭 Mangoes: These contain vitamin A and C. Great for the skin and also a nice treat for both young and old. Sometimes people enjoy mango's in a smoothie. Check out this mango website that is all about the fruit: https://www.mango.org/
In conclusion, remember the saying 'Variety is the spice of life', which aptly applies to a nutritious diet. Each fruit has unique health benefits, so mix it up and enjoy. You can also put some of these fruits in oatmeal to add more flavor. However, remember that moderation is key. Even with fruits, consuming too many can lead to an unhealthy sugar crash. And for the kids, remember to cut their fruits into bite-sized pieces to ensure safety during snack time.
The next time you're in the fruit aisle, I hope this guide empowers you to make healthier choices. These are some of the best fruits I could find, but your optimal choices ultimately depend on your personal health and lifestyle. This list suggests foods that can address specific physical issues and lead to healthier solutions. Make sure you consult with a healthcare professional to gain further understanding of what is best for your individual situation.
Written by M.L.
