Final 8 Fruits to Use as Substitute for Processed Sugary Snacks
Previously, we began the list of the top 16 fruits that will not only satisfy our sweet tooth, but also work to boost our immune system! Listed here are the final 8.
Passion Fruit
WHY THEY’RE GOOD FOR YOU
Passion fruit is low in calories but has a significant amount of fiber and vitamin C. It’s also a good source of the compound lycopene, an antioxidant that is thought to lower risk for heart disease and improve immunity.
NUTRITION
The vitamin C in passion fruit can help maintain connective tissue, bones and skin.
Peaches
WHY THEY’RE GOOD FOR YOU
These fuzzy fruits have been shown in studies to ward off obesity-related health problems like diabetes and heart disease, thanks to compounds that can lower inflammation and unhealthy cholesterol. One fruit has about 13 grams of natural sugar, which means it’s best eaten in moderation, like most fruits.
NUTRITION
The potassium in peaches can help lower risk for heart disease.
Pineapple
WHY THEY’RE GOOD FOR YOU
Pineapples are high in natural sugar, fiber, protein and vitamin C. The fruit also contains manganese, which is partially responsible for metabolizing fats and carbohydrates. Pineapples have a host of nutrients that are important for eye health and preventing vision loss. They also contain a compound called bromelain, which some studies suggest can help digestion.
NUTRITION
One pineapple has half of the daily recommended vitamin B6. Its also thought to be anti-inflammatory.
Plums
WHY THEY’RE GOOD FOR YOU
Plums are not only low in calories and fat but are also a low-glycemic-index food. So even though they’re sweet, they won’t send blood sugar soaring and can help modulate fat-gene expression. That means they’re less likely to cause the weight gain that can come with sugary foods.
NUTRITION
Plums can help good bacteria in the gut flourish. Plus, one plum has only 30 calories and contains heart-healthy potassium, which is also good for muscles.
Pomegranate
WHY THEY’RE GOOD FOR YOU
A chemical compound in pomegranate fruit called punicalagin may slow the progression of diseases like Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s by treating inflammation in the brain.
NUTRITION
One pomegranate meets half the daily calcium recommendation.
HOW TO EAT THEM
To eat a pomegranate-one of the most popular so-called superfoods in recent memory-cut off the top and bottom of the fruit and then cut it in half and spoon out the whole seeds, being careful not to burst them. Pomegranate juice is also an option but should be consumed in moderation, as its high in sugar and low in fiber.
Raspberries
WHY THEY’RE GOOD FOR YOU
Compounds in raspberries known as anthocyanins may lower insulin resistance and improve blood-sugar control among people with diabetes. Raspberries are sweet, but they won’t cause a blood-sugar spike, which means they keep you feeling full longer than other sweet foods. Eating berries has also been linked to a lower risk for heart disease.
NUTRITION
Fresh berries should be eaten right away. Frozen is a good way to get them at their peak of freshness.
Strawberries
WHY THEY’RE GOOD FOR YOU
Compared with some other fruits, strawberries are surprisingly low in sugar. Just make sure you give them a good wash before eating since they tend to have a higher amount of pesticide residue than any other type of produce, according to recent studies.
NUTRITION
Washing strawberries in a vinegar-and-water mix can extend their freshness for a couple of days once they’re at home with you.
Until next week… Good health to all of you!sweet, they won’t send blood sugar soaring and can help modulate fat-gene expression. That means they’re less likely to cause the weight gain that can come with sugary foods. NUTRITION Plums can help good bacteria in the gut flourish. Plus, one plum has only 30 calories and contains heart-healthy potassium, which is also good for muscles. Pomegranate WHY THEY’RE GOOD FOR YOU A chemical compound in pomegranate fruit called punicalagin may slow the progression of diseases like Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s by treating inflammation in the brain. NUTRITION One pomegranate meets half the daily calcium recommendation. HOW TO EAT THEM To eat a pomegranate-one of the most popular so-called superfoods in recent memory- cut off the top and bottom of the fruit and then cut it in half and spoon out the whole seeds, being careful not to burst them. Pomegranate juice is also an option but should be consumed in moderation, as its high in sugar and low in fiber. Raspberries WHY THEY’RE GOOD FOR YOU Compounds in raspberries known as anthocyanins may lower insulin resistance and improve blood-sugar control among people with diabetes. Raspberries are sweet, but they won’t cause a blood-sugar spike, which means they keep you feeling full longer than other sweet foods. Eating berries has also been linked to a lower risk for heart disease. NUTRITION Fresh berries should be eaten right away. Frozen is a good way to get them at their peak of freshness. Strawberries WHY THEY’RE GOOD FOR YOU Compared with some other fruits, strawberries are surprisingly low in sugar. Just make sure you give them a good wash before eating since they tend to have a higher amount of pesticide residue than any other type of produce, according to recent studies. NUTRITION Washing strawberries in a vinegar-and-water mix can extend their freshness for a couple of days once they’re at home with you. Until next week… Good health to all of you!