Summer is always a time of festivities and merrymaking. It is often associated with the beach and other activities under the warm sun. It is easy to be side-tracked from our health and fitness goals because of the sumptuous foods that are available during this time of the year.
The good news is that summer time is also season when certain fruits are in abundance. Many of these fruits easily end up as healthy smoothies and shakes, although others are enjoyed raw. However you intend to feast on summer fruits, make sure to include these 4 fruits to help maintain a fit and healthy body.
Guavas
Not everyone loves guavas but this summer fruit is full of nutrients that can help you attain a healthier and fitter body. It is filled with gallocatechin and leucocyanidin. These two substances can help reduce swelling and other symptoms and signs of inflammation.
Moreover, the folic acid and vitamin C that it contains can provide other health benefits that you will appreciate during hot days.
In case you’re not aware, guavas are one of the key ingredients to Four Seasons. This beverage is one of the most popular among Aussies and other nationalities. Guavas are also important in the traditional health care regimen of certain cultures around the globe, especially in Asia.
Enjoy guavas raw or you can have them as marmalades, juice, preserves, jams, jellies, and even candies. Regardless of how you want to consume this summer fruit, it is worth noting that you will also be boosting your immune system.
Pineapples
Summer isn’t really complete without pineapples. This multi-“eyed” fruit is without a doubt one of the healthiest fruits you can have during hot summer days. It’s filled with bromelain which is an antioxidant.
Like all fruits that feature antioxidants, pineapples can help in the reduction of the different signs of inflammation. In addition to bromelain, there are many phytochemicals that can also aid in the promotion of a healthier cardiovascular system.
Consuming pineapples can also give you manganese and vitamin C. Manganese is a critical element to the formation of superoxide dismutase. This enzyme also possesses antioxidant activity which can enhance the anti-inflammatory effects of bromelain.
Get a glass or two of pineapple smoothies. You can also feast on it as an ingredient to your favourite burger or even steak. However you wish to consume pineapples this summer, you’re already guaranteeing optimum health for yourself.
Kiwis
A native of New Zealand and now available in many countries, kiwis are an excellent source of vitamin C and vitamin E. This alone already makes kiwis one of the healthiest fruits to enjoy this summer.
Vitamin C is recognised as a wonder molecule is capable of boosting the body’s ability to produce collagen. It also improves the immune system. Vitamin E, on the other hand, is especially useful in protecting your skin from premature damage. This can occur because of prolonged exposure to the hot summer sun.
This summer fruit is also rich in beta-carotene, lutein, and zeaxanthin. These substances can also provide several health benefits that are perfect during the summer.
Kiwis are typically served in pies and smoothies, although they can also be a great accompaniment to spiced pork tenderloin and soffrito rice.
Papayas
One of the planet’s most nutritious, papayas are rich in vitamin C, folate, potassium, magnesium, calcium, and vitamin E. This combination of minerals and vitamins make papayas such a healthy fruit to have in the summer.
It promotes healthier skin and more robust immune system. It can also help strengthen the structure of bones and joints to free you from the risk of osteoporosis and fractures. Papayas are also excellent thirst-quenchers since they contain almost 90 percent water.
Its sweet taste and luscious texture is best enjoyed fresh. Some individuals enjoy fresh slices of papayas served in their fruit salad. You can also turn it into a shake or healthier smoothie. This is one summer fruit that can help you maintain optimum fitness and overall health.
Papayas, guavas, pineapples, and kiwis are just four of the best fruits you can enjoy this summer. They’re rich in antioxidants and other substances for a fitter and healthier body.
