Striving4Zen

1. Banana A-Peel
   
   What could be better than potent nutrition in a no-prep-required package? Not-so-boring bananas make a great fruit choice since they are loaded with minerals like potassium, which is important for heart, skeletal and muscle function. Research suggests a correlation between a diet low in potassium and high blood pressure, as well as an increased risk for stroke. A medium banana contains about 420 mg of potassium; even better, banana benefits don’t stop at potassium; you’ll also be getting a healthy dose of Vitamin B6, which helps improve immune function and protein metabolism.
   
   
2. An Apple a Day
   

   So just how is it that apples have gotten the reputation for keeping the doctor away? It's likely due in part to the high antioxidant capacity that apples boast. Several studies have correlated eating apples with reduced risk of some cancers, heart disease, asthma, and diabetes. And the doctor isn't all that an apple can help keep away: it can help keep the pounds away, too. A 2003 study suggested that three apples a day could help aid weight loss efforts.
   

3. Orange You Crazy for Citrus?
   

   You'll discover much more than Vitamin C when you peel into an orange, though just one tangy fruit can fulfill your daily requirement. Oranges are bursting with benefits, like a healthy dose of phytonutrients - some of which have been suggested to reduce inflammation, as well as cholesterol and blood pressure. And like apples, oranges are a dieter's delight, since they have a low glycemic index and are high in soluble fiber, which slows down the rapid rise in blood sugar and helps tame hunger.
   

4. Great Grapes
   
   You’ve probably heard the claims about the health benefits of grape-derived foods like wine and grape juice, but what does the grape itself have to offer? While most research suggests that the strongest antioxidant impact comes from concentrated sources like grape juice and wine, grapes are still great. Whatever variety you choose, grapes supply your diet with manganese, Vitamin B6 and potassium. Best of all, because they require no more prep than washing, a handful of grapes make it easier to sneak more servings of produce into your day.
   

Labels: eating healthy, food shopping, fruits, minerals, Vitamins

# posted by Striving4Zen : 9/03/2008