Super fruits are packed with nutrients and disease fighting properties that help to prevent disease and boost health, no matter what stage of life you’re in. Here are the top 8 super fruits that pack the most punch and what each can do for your health.
No. 1. Blueberries
Among super fruits, blueberries may have been crowned king of antioxidants. According to a 2005 study published in Journal of Agricultural Food Chemistry, blueberries are loaded with more antioxidants than any other fruit or vegetable. Antioxidants protect against age-related decline by fighting free radicals that damage healthy cells.
The study found that some varieties of blueberries may be up to 10 times richer in antioxidant activity than apples. Blueberries are best when consumed fresh, but can also be frozen for later use. They can also be dried and added to cereal or baked goods for a healthy boost of flavor and nutrition.
No. 2. Strawberries
Strawberries are a super fruits you’ve probably heard of, and they’re good for more than just eating fresh. Strawberries are packed with fiber, vitamins C and K, potassium, manganese, phosphorus, antioxidants and ellagic acid which has been shown to help prevent cardiovascular disease.
They also contain tryptophan (an amino acid) that is converted into serotonin (aka happiness hormone), plus vitamin B6 that helps your body make niacin (which helps convert carbs into energy). And it doesn’t stop there: The seeds from strawberries are also great for weight loss.
No. 3. Pomegranates
Pomegranates might not sound like super fruits, but their seeds are rich in ellagic acid, a powerful antioxidant that can guard against heart disease, diabetes and even cancer. Additionally, pomegranates can lower bad cholesterol while raising good cholesterol. Pomegranates have also been found to reduce symptoms of menopause, including hot flashes and night sweats.
They’re even associated with improved memory function in older adults. Finally, they’re not just delicious they’re convenient as well! Take some seeds out of a pomegranate when you get home from work or as you’re preparing dinner for easy snacking later on. You won’t regret it!
No. 4. Oranges
One juicy, sweet orange packs 161 percent of your daily Vitamin C requirement. Studies have shown that people who eat an abundance of oranges have fewer colds, plus they appear to protect against cardiovascular disease. Some believe it’s because Vitamin C strengthens capillaries, which could help prevent heart attacks or strokes.
It also may reduce free radical damage which is crucial in slowing down aging. Oranges are also good sources of potassium (which keeps blood pressure under control) and antioxidants such as beta-carotene (which helps strengthen our immune system). When it comes to super fruits, don’t be afraid to pile them on!
No. 5. Acai Berries
The super fruit’s many antioxidants make it a powerhouse for disease prevention. As a bonus, acai berries are full of fiber, which keeps you feeling fuller longer and can also help keep your digestive system moving properly. This makes them great for diabetics, as well as those who want to lose weight. Because they contain anthocyanins (the same phytochemicals that give red wine its heart-healthy benefits), acai berries can also help lower cholesterol levels.
The berries have been found to be high in polyphenols like ellagic acid and catechins, both of which are powerful antioxidants that may protect against cardiovascular disease by inhibiting oxidation of LDL cholesterol or helping prevent blood clotting.
No. 6. Watermelon
Few people think of watermelon as a super fruits, but it should be. This delicious red fruit is jam-packed with powerful antioxidants that help reduce oxidative stress and prevent signs of aging. In fact, watermelon has been found to contain more lycopene than any other fruit, vegetable or food group.
Lycopene may improve bone health as well as protect against various types of cancer like prostate cancer. Watermelon also has vitamin C, which is essential for healthy teeth and gums; it’s a great way to fight off colds and flu, too!
No. 7. Avocados
This super fruit is rich in monounsaturated fats (the good kind), which helps lower cholesterol. And it’s a fantastic source of fiber, which keeps you feeling full longer. Some studies have even shown that people who consume more fiber have a lower risk of developing cancer.
Make sure to include avocados in your diet on a regular basis. You can try slicing them on salads or as a substitute for other fatty ingredients (like butter) in other dishes.
Also Read: Avocado Allergy Treatment
No. 8. Papaya and Persimmons
The fifth super fruit, papaya, has numerous health benefits. Papayas contain vitamin C, which is important for growth and repair of body tissues. Vitamin C also helps to prevent illnesses such as scurvy. Persimmons are another fruit high in vitamin C.
In addition to helping with muscle control, Vitamin C may help maintain healthy skin, hair and teeth. It is also essential for wound healing due to its role in collagen synthesis.
Conclusion
Many of us are aware of berries, like raspberries, strawberries, blueberries and blackberries. These aren’t only powerful super fruits but also some of our most beloved treats but that doesn’t mean they should be enjoyed every day and green juice is good your health.
They also have a lower glycemic index than other fruits and help prevent type 2 diabetes. They’re best when eaten fresh (either on their own or with a splash of milk) but can also be used to make jams, chutneys, sauces or drinks.
