7 fruits experts say you should eat each week for better health
Published in Health & Fitness
An apple a day might keep the doctor away, but experts say you need more kinds of fruit than that to maintain good health.
According to an article in Eating Well, consuming a variety of fruits each week can lead to a healthier gut, which can “improve heart health, boost immunity and even benefit mental health.” Here are seven fruits, shown through studies and experts, you need to add to your weekly menu.
Apples
Apples are an excellent source of fiber, both soluble and insoluble. Soluble fiber helps food move more quickly through your digestive tract, and insoluble fiber “helps to bulk up stool” so it’s easier to go to the bathroom.
In addition, Lon Ben-Asher, M.S., RD, LD/N and a nutritionist at Pritikin Longevity Center, told Eating Well, “Apples have many anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that have been shown to reduce the risk of many chronic diseases such as cardiovascular disease, diabetes, and cancer due to the polyphenolic compounds.”
Avocados
According to Ben-Asher: “Avocados are rich in fat-soluble vitamins, such as vitamin E and K, which help support healthy skin, hair, nails and cell membrane permeability, as well as water-soluble vitamins such as vitamin C, and many B-vitamins that help support the immune system and ocular health. They are also great sources of healthy, polyunsaturated omega-3 fats and monounsaturated fats, which are used to replace saturated fats, have been shown to reduce cardiovascular disease and improve blood sugar control.”
Bananas
“Bananas are high in dietary fiber, which helps keep food in your stomach longer, reducing hunger and keeping you satiated, thus contributing to better weight management and reduced risk of obesity,” Ben-Asher said.
In addition, they may improve blood sugar levels, support heart health because they’re high in potassium, improve kidney health and support exercise recovery, according to Healthline.
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