Monday, June 25, 2012

Feeling Fruity



So I can think of 8,000 reasons why I love summer (beach days, driving with all the windows down, flip flops…). One of my favorite parts of summer is all the delicious fruits that are in season and at their best right now!

Fruit will keep you hydrated on hot days, and they are low calorie, low fat, and high fiber. So eat up!

The dietary guidelines for Americans recommend 2 cups of fruit daily for healthy adults. Keep in mind one cup is equal to a small apple, a half-cup of dried fruit, a cup of 100% fruit juice, or of course a cup of berries or cubed fruit. Most Americans don’t meet this goal each day, do you? If not, get your butt moving!

So I thought it would be fun to give you guys some health benefits of a couple of my favorite fruits for summer. So here goes!

Blueberries- These little guys are packed with tons of anthocynins, and phytochemicals. These will protects against cell damage, and reduce inflammation (that could lead to cancer, heart disease, and other horrible things), they also protect against bacteria (stopping infections). AND they contain Vitamin K, which is necessary for blood clotting and bone formation.

Mangos- Just one of these will contain your daily need of vitamins C, used in the body for immunity, wound healing, eye health, protection against cell damage, and many other awesome things. Mangoes also contain the daily amount of vitamin A needed for eye health (preventing night blindness) and healthy skin. And they have half the daily value of vitamins E (another antioxidant to boost immunity and prevent disease).

Cherries- These contain melatonin (few foods do), which helps your body regulate your sleep and wake cycle.  They also have anthocyanins that are known to reduce inflammation (helping with cardiovascular health). Along with Vitamins A, C, E!

Watermelons- Contain essential B vitamins needed for energy production and brain function, as well as high levels of lycopene (an antioxidant) which can fight heart disease and cancer. As well as vitamins A and C!

Now go eat some fruit salad already!

No comments:

Post a Comment