Get recharged!

I look towards the changing fruits with the changing seasons to prevent the aches, pains, flu and coughs that come with the cooler temperatures. Most of these fruits are rich in Vitamin C which helps boost your immunity. Let me tell you which fruits these are and their other benefits.

Figs: Figs are a densely mineralised sweet fruit containing the highest concentration of calcium of any food whether they are fresh or dried. They work as a great laxative as they are packed with nutrients that help draw out the waste and mucous in the intestine. Therefore, it is one of the top 3 mucous dissolving foods. Dry figs are the most alkaline dried fruit and probably the most mineralised as well. Remember that the fresh fig should be soft and ripened on the tree. If they are eaten unripe, they will burn the mouth and lips.

Guava: Found with vendors across the months of December to February, guava is my favourite fruit when it’s cool outside! Guava has the highest amount of Vitamin C, almost five times the amount of any other fruit. This helps in treating common coughs and colds, thus reducing mucous in the respiratory tract and preventing germs from spreading thus boosting overall health. The guava prevents constipation as it has laxative properties. Cut and eaten with a sprinkle of chilli powder and salt makes it a delicious meal.

Pear: I eagerly await the pears as I can eat them in all seasons. The first bite into this juicy fleshy fruit makes me feel refreshed. Eating it first thing in the morning will provide you with a rich source of fibre which may help in smooth peristaltic movement of the gastrointestinal tract. Diabetics can also enjoy pears to satisfy their ‘sweet tooth’ as pears are low glycemic index foods. Pears are rich in potassium which lower blood pressure.

Strawberry: Strawberries not only look like a fruity heart-shaped valentine, but they are also filled with phytonutrients that love to promote your health especially your heart health. Look for organically grown strawberries. I love having my strawberries as they are an excellent source of Vitamin C and a rich source of antioxidants thus preventing premature ageing. Absorption of iron also increases in the body when you consume strawberries. Strawberries are low in calories thus safe for diabetics.

Grapes: Have you ever wondered what gives them their brilliant colours? Grapes owe their hues to the presence of flavonoids in high concentrations. This tiny fruit is a powerhouse of antioxidants. Due to its antioxidant content, the grapes with the seed lowers cholesterol. They improve the brain and improve memory while lowering the probability of developing Alzheimer’s disease. Grapes are good for the eyes as they prevent age-related loss of vision as well as cataract. In fact, they have anti-ageing properties as well.

Oranges: They quench my thirst and are a perfect combination of sweet and sour. When you think of the nutrition value you think only of vitamin C because that’s what it’s been associated with. Of course, that is there but oranges also have little amounts of calcium, folate, thymine and potassium. They are zero in fat and low in calories. Also, they are high in fibre and prevent constipation. The membranes between the segments of the fresh fruit provide a good amount of pectin which is responsible for lowering cholesterol. Fresh oranges are really a satisfying tasty snack.