Eat Fruit!

There are big benefits to eating fruit.  As we’ve all heard... an apple a day keeps the doctor away, but what are the real benefits? Here's a short list... and certainly there are many more:

1. Most fruits contain fiber, which helps slow the absorption of sugars (fructose and others), making us feel full longer. This means we won’t feel the need to snack as often, and fruit can also lower cholesterol and keep us regular.

2. Fruits like bananas and melons contain high amounts of potassium and can help reduce your blood pressure and your risk for kidney stones and bone loss.

3. Fruit should be eaten alone or before meals. Fruit is easier for the body to digest than other foods, so try to consume it on its own or just before a meal. Research also shows that consuming more fruit may actually help prevent serious health conditions like heart disease.

4. Fruit also contains high amounts of antioxidants. Antioxidants are amazing molecules that help prevent the breakdown of cells due to free radicals, which can lead to serious health issues.

So what are some of the best fruits to eat?

• Kiwi: Lots of nutrition in a small package... It’s rich in potassium, magnesium, vitamin E and fiber and has almost twice the vitamin C of an orange.

• Apples: Although they don’t contain much vitamin C, apples are loaded with antioxidants, helping the body absorb more vitamin C and thereby reducing your risk of colon disease, heart attack and stroke.

• Strawberries: These amazing berries have the greatest amount of antioxidants found in fruit and shield the body from free radicals that can cause an array of health hazards.

• Guavas and Papayas: These fruits are often overlooked at the market, but they’re the grand prize winners for containing the most vitamin C. Guava is packed with fiber and helps in keeping you regular, and papaya has as much carotene as carrots, essential for good eye health.