Top 5 Summer Fruits

Canada has some harsh weather so is it any wonder that when summer arrives we love our farmer’s markets, not to mention all the fruit and vegetables stalls along the side of the road brimming with delicious, sweet fruit grown right in our own backyard. Here is a list of the top 5 fruits you’ll want to eat to make sure you stay yummy on the inside and out.

Strawberries can be used in salads, smoothies and jams. You can make strawberry lemonade and strawberry shortcakes, or indulge in their sweetness all alone.

Strawberries have higher levels of Vitamin C, fiber, folate and potassium than most other fruits like bananas, apples or even oranges. They have also been found to reduce risk of cancer, enhance your memory and alleviate symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis. Eating one serving (8-10 strawberries) a day can also significantly reduce your blood pressure, which may reduce your risk of heart disease.

Share some with your love by dipping them in chocolate.

Blueberries are a fruit superstar. Low in calories, they are rich in Vitamins A, C, E and beta-carotene as well as loaded with minerals such as potassium, manganese and magnesium.

As if all that weren’t enough, these teeny tiny little wonders may also be the fountain of youth, containing the most health protecting antioxidants of all fresh fruits and vegetables. Antioxidants prevent cancer causing cell damage and limit the changes wrought by age related diseases. Is it any wonder you can find your thrills on Blueberry Hill?

Let’s just say this. Watermelon is practically fat-free. Is there anything else to say? Yes, as a matter of fact there is.

Comprised primarily of water, it also packs a nutitional wallop. An excellent source of Vitamin C, A and beta-carotene it is also a powerful source of the antioxidant lycopene. Lycopene has been shown to be protective against a growing list of cancers which include prostate, breast, endometrial, lung and colorectal. A yummy treat on a hot day. And did I mention fat-free?

Make your life a bowlful of cherries by noshing on these little gems. Rich in melatonin, cherries can help reduce your risk of heart disease. They are also rich in Vitamin C and a great source of fibre. They also have the shortest growing season so get them quick!

More good news for those looking to stay young. Plums contain a high amount of the antioxidant phenol. Phenols have been shown to help prevent oxygen-based damage to fats. Plums also help with iron absorption so if you’re anemic or iron-deficient, be sure to add plums to your daily diet. Don’t forget that the dried version of plums are called prunes so they are also a good way to keep things, you know, moving along on a regular basis.

Top 5 Summer Fruits

Helping You Stay Yummy on the Inside and Out