It makes me sad when I hear of people avoiding avocados because of their high calorie content, even though the fats found in them are beneficial ones. Although they are commonly referred to as vegetables, avocados are actually a type of tropical fruit! They have a delicious, smooth flavor and are wonderful eaten raw. Avocados are high in omega-6 fatty acids (linoleic acid) which studies have shown can help to stabilize blood sugar levels and control hunger cravings. Avocados are also a great source of potassium, a mineral that helps regulate blood pressure. There is also a good amount of digestive fiber in avocados which aids in promoting healthy digestion. Some other nutrients found in avocados include vitamin K, folate, vitamin C, and vitamin B6. Avocados are a great food for promoting heart health, strong bones, and immunity.
DID YOU KNOW:
- Avocados are native to Central and South America and have been enjoyed since 8,000 BC.
- If stored properly, avocados will stay fresh for up to a week. Purchase unripe avocados and leave them at room temperature. As they ripen, they will soften and the skin will become darker in color. Don’t put your avocados in the refrigerator.
Deliciously sweet with a butter-like consistency, papaya is a favorite fruit for many. The vibrant color of the fruit flesh reflects the abundance of beta-carotene and beta-cryptoxathin, two carotenoids that are converted into vitamin A for powerful antioxidant protection. Papayas are also a good source of vitamin C, vitamin E, vitamin K, potassium, folate, and zinc. If you are looking to include more fiber in your diet, papaya is a good source, helping to promote healthy digestion. In addition to the fiber content, papayas contain papain, an enzyme that digests proteins. This makes papaya a helpful fruit for anybody who suffers from poor digestion. Papayas have been shown to be very helpful in promoting healthy lungs, a strong immune system, and a healthy heart. It’s also a good food for promoting inflammatory balance in the body as it comtains chymopapain.
support healthy blood pressure and blood vessels. It is loaded with beta-carotene, biotin, folic acid, vitamin C, vitamin E, and calcium. Ginger has been shown to have anti-inflammatory properties and may be useful in a nutritional program for arthritis and fibromyalgia. The blueberries are an important source of resveratrol, a phytonutrient that has been linked to preventing heart disease and cancer. Blueberries are a good source of dietary fiber. They also promote urinary tract health. Give it a try today!
