Zee Media Bureau/Udita Madan
New Delhi: In this day and age of burgers, pizza's, other fast food and mouth-watering cuisines like Chinese, Thai, Mexican, etc., making their cut in the world, the consumption of healthy fruits seem to be slipping.
Children prefer fast food and other snacks, so it is up to the parents to make healthier options like fruits a part of their daily diet.
Whether eaten in organic form, as or in a salad, or in the form of fresh juice, fruits pack a mean punch when it comes to health.
Below, we not only give you reasons to reach out for that fruit bowl more often, but also list a few fruits that you can stock your fruit basket with. Take a look!
1. Apples:
The old saying 'an apple a day keeps the doctor away' holds true in every sense. This super-fruit helps control insulin levels by releasing sugar slowly into the bloodstream. Apples are high in fibre and help maintain a healthy weight.
2. Mangoes:
Mango is not known as the 'king of fruits’ for nothing. Not only does it taste good, but it also has many health benefits to offer. Loaded with antioxidants like quercetin, isoquercitrin, astragalin, mangoes help fight cancer. Moreover, mangoes keep cholesterol in check and cleanse the skin.
3. Guava:
Guava helps slow down the absorption of sugar in the blood. Known for its natural sugar and high fibre content, it is an excellent food choice for diabetics. Besides regulating blood pressure, guavas are beneficial in promoting healthy thyroid function.
4. Papaya:
Referred to as the ‘fruit of angels’, papaya is loaded with digestive, nutritional and medicinal features with curing capabilities for many medical ailments like dengue and skin problems. It has digestive enzymes that digest proteins by breaking the protein content and aids in losing weight too.
5. Litchi:
Litchis have a cooling effect on the human body. They are an excellent source of B-complex vitamins such as thiamin, niacin, and folates. Eating litchis helps the body metabolize carbohydrates, protein, and fats easily.
6. Apricots:
Apricots are full of beta-carotene and fibre. They help prevent various medical problems related to the heart and eyes. The fruit helps protect LDL cholesterol from oxidation, which in turn keeps away heart diseases.
7. Bananas:
One of the most affordable fruits, bananas are packed with lots of nutrients to benefit your health in several ways. Eating bananas on a regular basis prevents heart ailments and controls high blood pressure. Bananas also help maintain regular bowel movements, regulate heart rhythm and maintain good eye health.
8. Watermelon:
Watermelons have incredible health benefits. It helps lower blood pressure and acts as a natural diuretic that can help hydrate your body. Furthermore, the fruit is low in calories and free from cholesterol.
9. Grapes:
Last but not the least, grapes which are rich in vitamins A, C, B6 and folate, have the ability to treat constipation, indigestion, fatigue, kidney disorders, macular degeneration and prevent cataracts. The delicious fruit also has essential minerals like potassium, calcium, iron, phosphorus, magnesium and selenium.
So, grab that fruit platter for a juicy and healthy treat!
