Fruits: More Than Just a Snack

Fruit. We eat them for breakfast, lunch, dinner, and snacks. We juice them, blend them, and bake them into pies. But what exactly are fruits, and why are they so good for us?

Fruits are the mature ovaries of flowering plants. They contain seeds and are typically fleshy and sweet. However, not all fruits are sweet. Some, like lemons and limes, are tart. And some, like avocados, are even savory.

• Vitamins and minerals: Fruits are a great source of vitamins and minerals, including vitamin C, potassium, and fiber. These nutrients are essential for good health and can help protect against chronic diseases like heart disease, stroke, and cancer.
• Fiber: Fiber is an important part of a healthy diet. It helps to keep you regular, can lower cholesterol levels, and can help you feel full after eating. Fruits are a good source of fiber, especially if you eat them with the skin on.
• Antioxidants: Fruits are also a good source of antioxidants. Antioxidants help to protect your cells from damage, which can help to prevent chronic diseases like cancer and heart disease.

So, next time you're looking for a healthy snack, reach for a piece of fruit. It's a delicious and nutritious way to satisfy your cravings.

Here are some tips for getting more fruit into your diet:

• Add fruit to your breakfast cereal or oatmeal.
• Pack a piece of fruit for a snack to take to work or school.
• Make a fruit smoothie for a quick and easy breakfast or snack.
• Bake fruit into muffins, pies, or other desserts.
• Grill fruit for a unique and flavorful side dish.

There are endless ways to enjoy fruit. So, get creative and find a way to incorporate more of this healthy food into your diet.