You’ve heard of Superfoods, but how about, Superfruits? Not every fruit qualifies. Those deemed “super” by nutrition scientists are packed with antioxidants, fiber, vitamins and minerals, and other nutrients that can help you live longer, look better, and even prevent disease.
The best part is that most are widely available, even at your local grocery store, However, there is one caveat: Superfruits are best consumed whole, not processed. So if possible, try to buy and eat these fruits fresh. Experts estimate that you should be eating five to nine portions of fruit or vegetables a day, and most of them should be Superfruits.
Here are some of the healthiest superfruits you need to consume on a daily basis:
With one of the highest antioxidant levels of any fruit worldwide, the Acai berry is exemplary in supplying our bodies with the much needed energy.
Yes, and apple a day keeps the doctor away. Thanks in part to an apple’s red or green color. Apples are a great fiber source, but the skin contains quercetin, an antioxidant that packs antihistamine and anti-inflammatory power, and therefore may help protect you from heart disease and possibly allergic reactions. A study from St. George’s Hospital Medical School in London found that people who eat five or more apples a week have better lung function than those who don’t. So slip an apple into your lunch bag today.
The Grapefruit Diet became effective because grapefruit is a superfruit. Grapefruit is more for your heart than your weight. A grapefruit a day—particularly the ruby variety—can help keep heart disease at bay by lowering cholesterol, according to several studies. The redder your fruit the better; they contain higher levels of antioxidants.
Blueberries are your go-to Superfruit for brain function and memory. Several studies link high flavonoid levels in blueberries with a better memory, and regular consumption may help keep your brain functioning well as you age, new research suggests. One study found that women with the highest intake of berries appeared to have a delay in cognitive aging by a whopping 2.5 years. Blueberries are also rich in manganese, which plays an important role in your metabolism, which can help keep you slim and energized.
Summer colds are the worst, so have some papaya! This tropical fruit is bursting with vitamin C – just one cup gives you more than you need each day. On top of this, papaya is also a good source of vitamins A and E, two powerful antioxidants that may help protect against heart disease and colon cancer.
Include these superfruits in your daily diet and you will soon gain its amazing health benefits!