10 most health-beneficial fruits to include in your diet

 

Most fruits are definitely a tasty and healthy snack for everyone. But if you're looking for the utmost nutritional benefits, you might be curious about the healthiest fruits to include in your diet. Here's a list of the most health-beneficial fruits you can make a salad with, add to oatmeal, or top pancakes, according to Prevention.

Apples

With skin-on apples containing twice as much fiber as peeled ones, they are a fiber-packed snack that promotes a feeling of fullness. Apples also boast antioxidant activity and are associated with reduced risks of chronic diseases, such as cancer, cardiovascular disease, and asthma.

Strawberries

Packed with vitamin C, strawberries contribute to immune and skin health. They also contain fiber and polyphenols, offering benefits for blood sugar control and heart health.

Blueberries

Blueberries are true superfoods rich in anthocyanins, which possess anti-inflammatory properties. They can decrease inflammation in the brain, supporting brain health, like cognition, memory, and mood. These phytochemicals fuel healthy gut bacteria and, combined with blueberries' fiber content, contribute to gut health.

Avocados

Rich in monounsaturated fats, avocados are a good source of fiber and potassium. They support healthy blood pressure, and weight management, as well as provide glutathione, an antioxidant with anti-cancer properties.

Watermelon

Known for its high water content, watermelon is rich in vitamins A and C that help to fight free radicals that cause cell damage and disease. They also contain antioxidants like carotenoids and lycopene. Scrubbing the watermelon before consumption is advised to remove potential contamination.

Blackberries

Despite their small size, blackberries are high in fiber, associated with benefits like lower cholesterol, regular bowel movements, and healthy gut bacteria. They also provide vitamin K and manganese, crucial for healthy bones and a well-functioning immune system.

Bananas

Adding to natural sweetness, bananas offer a nutritional profile rich in potassium, magnesium, and resistant starch, promoting gut health and reducing inflammation.

Lemons

Lemon in your diet provides vitamin C, which is linked to a reduced risk of heart disease. The white pith of the lemon peel contains soluble fiber (pectin), associated with cardiovascular health.

Kiwi

Snacking on kiwi, especially before bedtime, may have sleep-promoting effects, attributed to serotonin content or the fiber in kiwi.

Cherries

Cherries, whether sweet or tart, are packed with antioxidants. They have anti-inflammatory effects and may contribute to improved sleep by increasing melatonin levels.

We also wrote about unusual fruits to try, like dragon fruit and kiwano, and how eating bananas daily can boost your well-being.