Everyone knows that fruits are super good for your health, but if you’re like most people, you probably haven’t memorized the entire list of what’s good and what’s not.
Here are five fruits that are super good for your health in summer.
1) Watermelon
This is one of the best fruits to consume in summer. Watermelon contains antioxidants and carotenoids, as well as vitamin C and lycopene. These all work together to fight cancerous cells and boost your immune system to stay healthy. They also promote heart health because they’re packed with potassium, lowering blood pressure and stroke risk.
2) Blueberries
Blueberries may be tiny, but they pack a powerful punch regarding health benefits. This highly nutritious fruit is high in antioxidants and anti-inflammatory properties. Antioxidants help prevent cancer and other diseases, while anti-inflammatory properties can reduce joint pain and muscle soreness after exercise. Best of all, blueberries also contain the natural sugars fructose and glucose, which have been shown to improve blood sugar levels.
Eat a cup of blueberries daily to keep your immune system strong, your brain alert, your heart healthy, and overall good health during the summer months!
3) Strawberries
Strawberries are one of the most common fruits found in grocery stores. While they are summer fruit, they can be enjoyed year-round. Strawberries contain significant amounts of fiber, vitamin C, and vitamin K (all three vitamins listed as essential to bone health). The National Institutes of Health has been studying strawberries’ effect on our brain health and found them to reduce cognitive decline by 20%. They’re also excellent sources of manganese, and copper and good sources of magnesium, riboflavin, potassium, and niacin. Being high in fiber with these other healthy nutrients is why strawberries should make your Best Fruits for Summer list!
4) Avocado
Avocados come in a large variety of colors. They have great nutritional value; their shells can be dried to make bowls and other utensils. Avocados have many health benefits, too, such as anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. They also contain more potassium than any other fruit, which is essential because most Americans don’t get enough potassium!
1) What nutrients does an avocado contain? 2) How can avocados be dried to make bowls, etc.? 3) What should you do if you don’t get enough potassium?
5) Pineapple
Pineapple is a delicious tropical fruit found in the produce section of your grocery store. This fruit is easy to find and nutritious, so it should be on your list of fruits this summer. One thing you may not know about pineapple is that it contains some fantastic anti-inflammatory properties that have been proven to help reduce osteoarthritis pain. Beyond the health benefits, pineapple tastes amazing when cut up and added to salads or even atop a hamburger patty. Another interesting fact about this fruit: eating raw pineapple can help prevent muscle cramps!
