Raisins, dates, figs, and other dried fruits might not be as appealing as fresh fruits, but these little sweet bites can help you meet your goal of eating at least two servings of fruit a day.
One major benefit is their long shelf life, which means you won’t have to worry about them going bad. They’re also lightweight and make for easy snacks, especially when paired with nuts. A classic duo is raisins and peanuts, while dried apricots with almonds make another delicious combination.
Keep in mind that dried fruits are energy-dense and higher in calories, so it’s important not to overindulge— a serving size is just a quarter-cup. However, they also pack in a lot of nutrients along with those calories. Most dried fruits are excellent sources of potassium and fiber, and they’re rich in antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals. Just be aware that some dried fruits may have added sugar, so always check the label to avoid unnecessary empty calories.
Dried fruits are also great mixed into oatmeal, baked into muffins, or added to salads and grain-based dishes.
Citrus fruits. The vitamin C content of oranges, grapefruit, lemons, and limes is well known. They also include anti-inflammatory phytochemicals, including flavonoids and carotenoids, fiber, potassium, calcium, B vitamins, and copper. Citrus fruits have few human studies, although the minerals they contain have been linked to heart-protective benefits.
Pomegranate. The little pomegranate seeds are packed with nutrients, including fiber, potassium, vitamins C and K, and powerful polyphenols like resveratrol and anthocyanin. The possible advantages of pomegranate consumption could be attributed to these components.
Grapes. These delicious fruits are loaded with fiber, potent polyphenols, and vitamins C and K.
How do you ensure that your diet contains enough fruits that are healthy? Eating according to the seasons is one tactic; in the summer, choose grapes and stone fruits; in the fall, apples and pears; in the winter, persimmons and pomegranates; and in the spring, citrus and cherries.
Although pomegranates are mostly enjoyed for their crisp, tart flavor, research indicates that they may also offer some amazing health advantages.
Actually a berry, pomegranates were first domesticated in western Asia, the Mediterranean region, and the Middle East. Pomegranates are currently grown more extensively worldwide in the modern era, particularly in regions like tropical Africa and the western United States.
The husk, or outer layer, of pomegranates, is a spherical fruit that resembles leather. The fruit is composed of two layers: the mesocarp, which is a softer inner membrane-like layer, and the epicarp, which is a hard outer layer. The red, juicy arils that are most commonly connected to pomegranates are found in the mesocarp. The juicy red capsule that encloses both the pomegranate seed and the seed itself is called an aril.
The advantages of pomegranates have been known to ancient societies for millennia. Pomegranate was used as food and medicine for many conditions, from controlling bowel motions and preventing food from spoiling to lowering infections and halting blood loss. Modern pomegranates are typically solely eaten for their pulpy, juice-filled arils and seeds, but research indicates that other portions of the fruit may also offer some quite remarkable health advantages.
Benefits of Pomegranates for Health
According to research, pomegranates may have many health advantages, including heart health promotion, antioxidant activity, and a lower risk of obesity.
1. Extracts from pomegranates may improve heart health.
Since heart disease is one of the major causes of death worldwide, scientists and medical professionals are constantly looking for fresh and efficient methods to support heart health. Pomegranates and pomegranate extract have several advantages, one of which is that they may support a robust cardiovascular system.
In one study, hemodialysis patients who drank pomegranate juice or were assigned to a control group were monitored for eight weeks. The purpose of the research was to evaluate how pomegranate juice affected the subjects' cardiovascular systems. Following the trial, the pomegranate juice group experienced a significant decrease in triglyceride levels and blood pressure, which was not observed in the control group.
In another trial, 200 milliliters (mL) of pomegranate juice per day for six weeks was reported to help considerably lower blood pressure in patients with type 2 diabetes. Reduced blood pressure makes the heart work harder to pump blood throughout the body, which supports a healthy cardiovascular system.
2. Extract from Pomegranates May Help Joint Health
Pomegranates and pomegranate extract, according to studies, may help lessen osteoarthritis symptoms. Debilitating symptoms of osteoarthritis include bone spurs, edema, stiffness, decreased mobility, and aching joints. Studies indicate that osteoarthritis, sometimes known as "wear and tear" arthritis, has a significant inflammatory component that contributes to the crippling condition.
A laboratory study evaluated the effects of pomegranate extract on osteoarthritis-indicating cells. According to the study, pomegranate extract can lessen inflammation and delay the symptoms of cartilage deterioration.
According to findings from other research, pomegranates help people with osteoarthritis by significantly reducing inflammation and discomfort as measured by the visual analog scale (VAS).
Another trial with 19 female volunteers who had osteoarthritis and were controlled with a placebo discovered that taking pomegranate supplements dramatically decreased the body's inflammatory levels.
3. A potent antioxidant is pomegranate extract.
Pomegranates are known for their tasty arils, but they also contain a number of other beneficial chemicals and substances that may add to their overall health benefits.
Pomegranates are rich in many minerals, including polyphenols, omega-3 fatty acids, and magnesium, according to research. Pomegranate leaves are also rich in antioxidants, such as apigenin and quercetin.
Because of its high ellagitannin and anthocyanin content, studies have shown that pomegranate juice has more antioxidant activity than powerful antioxidants like red wine and green tea. Pomegranate juice has also been shown to lessen the generation of free radicals and oxidative stress brought on by macrophages.
The US is lucky to have a wide variety of fruits available all year in grocery stores. They have all heard about the five servings of fruits and vegetables per day recommendation, and they are available in a wide variety of sizes, shapes, and colours. Therefore, why do we consume them? And how do the nutritional differences among fruits differ? Is there a difference between fresh versus dried fruits, whole versus juice? Let's look at it.
Variations between fruits
Similar to other foods, various fruits include a range of nutrients. Fruit liquids typically don't contain as much fibre as whole fruits do. One serving or one piece of real fruit contains much less sugar than one cup of fruit juice, even 100% fruit juice. Whole fruits also provide greater satiety than liquids. It is preferable to consume fruit and vegetables whole rather than in juice when consuming the necessary daily allowance. Juice should be limited to no more than 4 to 8 ounces per day, assuming it is 100% juice, rather than being completely avoided.
The grocery store's freezer department is frequently filled with a wide selection of frozen fruits. Like mangos, these are frequently already peeled and chopped, which is handy and frequently less expensive than fresh fruits. The nutrients in frozen fruits are effectively preserved since they are often plucked and quickly frozen right after being harvested. In addition, frozen versions of some seasonal fruits, like blueberries, are easily accessible. The secret to choosing is to pick frozen fruits that are basic and sugar-free.
There are several fruits that may be purchased dried, including raisins, apricots, and pineapple, to name a few. They are a favourite among hikers and campers since they are high in calories, have good nutritional properties, store well for a long time, and are easy to transport. However, other foods, especially mango and pineapple, frequently have sugar added during the drying process. Since dried cranberries are inherently highly tart, sugar is usually added to them. The small size and sweetness make it simple to consume a lot of food at once, even for those without added sugar, and the calories can mount up quickly.
Sulfur dioxide is additionally used to maintain the freshness and colour of some dried fruits, such as raisins and apricots. Most people don't find that to be an issue, but some others do, especially those who have asthma. It is simple to avoid sulphur dioxide treatment if necessary because it is clearly marked on the package.
Overview
Facts
Nutrition Facts
Feijoa
Calories26 cal
Serving Size
To burn these calories
Macronutrients and calories
Macronutrients (% calorie yield)% Daily Value*
Total Fat · 0.2 g (6%)
Total Carbohydrate · 6 g (88%)
Protein · 0.3 g (4%)
Micronutrients
Vitamin C · 13.8 mg
23%
Potassium · 72 mg
2%
View complete nutrition details
Disclaimer: *Bar represents Percent Daily Values and based on a 2,000 calorie diet with a max representaion of 100%. Your daily values may vary depending on your calorie needs.
There are many meals that are ideal for summer dining, but I have selected my top ten favourites. These meals are not only filling but also delicious and appropriate for any summer event.
Specific nutrients for months with warmer weather.
Your nutritional requirements change along with the seasons. You probably spend more time outdoors during the warmer months, engaging in sports, gardening, or other activities that cause you to perspire more. Sweat loss results in a need for replenishment.
The summer sun can also harm your skin if you spend time outside during that period. Wearing sunscreen and sun-protective clothes is the best approach to protect your skin when you're outside, but some foods can help reduce the harm that UV rays do to your skin.
In the summer, your body needs these essential nutrients even more, so be sure to eat plenty of them:
When you perspire, you lose vital electrolytes like sodium, potassium, calcium, and magnesium. Try adding an electrolyte powder to your drink to stay hydrated and replace the important minerals you lose when you sweat.
Vitamin C: According to certain research, vitamin C may help shield skin from UV radiation damage.
After spending the day in the sun, make sure you get plenty of this potent antioxidant.
Since vitamin D is known as the "sunshine vitamin," it may appear as though you wouldn't have to worry about obtaining enough of it throughout the summer. However, research indicates that 42% of Americans lack enough vitamin D. 10. Don't disregard this essential vitamin just because the days are longer and sunnier.
Eat seasonal foods.
Fresh fruits and vegetables are collected in the summer. Seasonal fruits and vegetables are immediately transported from the farm to your table after being gathered at their optimal ripeness. They are therefore more scrumptious and nourishing than vegetables that had to travel across the globe to get to you.
Most of the time, eating seasonal fruits and vegetables also saves you money and helps the local farmers who grow your food.
Eating seasonal, local vegetables has many benefits, but my favourite is that it simply tastes better. Additionally, summer is the best time to buy fresh fruits and vegetables that are simply not accessible at other times of the year.
Produce that is in season offers more nutrients.
The fact that eating in-season provides you with more nutrients than eating out-of-season may surprise you. Fruits and vegetables contain more vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants when they are in s eason.This is so that local food can be picked when it is most ripe and doesn't have to travel as far to get to your table.
Many nutrients start to degrade over time after a fruit or vegetable is selected. As a result, produce that has been transported a long way or kept for a long time has lost some of its nutritional value by the time it gets to your table.
Since summer fruit has a high concentration of vitamins A and C, which are crucial for immunity, skin, and eye health, it is extremely healthy for you. Seasonal fruits and vegetables are a great choice because they have fewer calories and more water than other foods.
If there is a farmer's market close by, visit it to check what's on offer before going to the store. Uncertain of the particular summertime in-season items? The top seasonal summer dishes are listed below for you to add to your list.
This Summer's Top 10 Plant-Based Foods
1. Watermelon
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Not only is watermelon in season, but it also contains 90% water, making it the ideal summer snack. Watermelon is nourishing and cooling due to its high water content, making it ideal for a hot summer day.
Contrary to popular belief, swallowing the seeds won't cause a watermelon to ripen within your stomach. What's not to love about this classic summer fruit, which is rich in vitamins A and C as well as the potent antioxidant lycopene.
5 WAYS TO SEASON WATERMELON
2. Bell peppers
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In terms of vitamins A, C, and B-complex, peppers are a good source. Actually, compared to citrus fruits, bell peppers provide substantially more vitamin C. They also contain copper, manganese, and fibre.
Green, yellow, and red is just a few of the colours that bell peppers can be. Actually, unripe green peppers have a less sweet flavour than yellow or red peppers. Some even claim that the flavour of green bell peppers is bitter. Red bell peppers are significantly sweeter and might make a better snack option. Peppers can be roasted, eaten raw, or turned into salsa, regardless of colour.
THE HEALTH BENEFITS OF RED PEPPERS
3. Tomatoes
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Lycopene can also be found in abundance in tomatoes (just like watermelons). Generally speaking, a tomato's red colour indicates how much lycopene it contains. 2
On a grilled veggie burger, tomatoes are one of the best foods to eat.
THE HEALTH BENEFITS OF TOMATOES
4. Lemon
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Lemons are especially good for plant-based eaters because their high vitamin C content makes it easier for the body to absorb iron when eaten with other plant foods.
Red lentils and leafy greens are two excellent plant-based sources of iron.
Lemon enhances the flavour of both savoury and sweet foods. And always remember to make lemonade when life gives you lemons!
5. Corn
A traditional summertime dish, sweet corn is excellent for picnics and barbecues. If you're lucky enough to live in the Midwest this summer, you won't have a hard time finding sweet corn that tastes great.
In addition to being a staple of the summer, sweet corn has many health advantages. Fibre from corn can aid in regulating digestion and preventing constipation. A and C vitamins, which are crucial for maintaining healthy skin and eyes, are also abundant in them. Corn's potassium content aids in controlling blood pressure.