Summer Fruits and Recipes

Summer is here and the eating is good! Summer would not be complete without a slice of melon or a fresh bowl of strawberries; and the prices on fresh fruits usually go down in the summer, making it a scrumptious choice for snacking.  Not only are they versatile, they are a great source of nutrition and a great pre-workout snack, providing your body with a source of fuel to power through your routine.

The following fruits are low in sugar, and nutrition powerhouses! They are great served up in their natural state but why not try some of these unique recipes as well.

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Strawberries:  They are actually a member of the rose family and are loaded with fiber and vitamin C. Vitamin C is necessary for growth and repair of cells in the human body. They are also a good source of potassium and magnesium which can help reduce the blood pressure which is caused by sodium.

Try this Strawberry Chia Seed Jam from EatingBirdFood

Raspberries: Helps with wrinkles, cancer prevention and PMS symptoms. The cancer-fighting properties in raspberries and blueberries come from two of their chemical compounds, ellagic acid and vitamin C. Raspberries efficiently stop undesirable damage to cell membranes and thus neutralize free radicals.

Try one of these Raspberry recipes from Experience Life

Cantaloupe: Provides more beta-carotene than any other melon. One cup of cantaloupe provides 108% of the daily value for vitamin A.  The benefits of eating cantaloupe include preserving eyesight, supporting immunity, enhancing sun protection and reducing the risk of several types of cancer. Warning: Scrub the cantaloupe thoroughly with a vegetable brush, under running water before slicing to prevent risk of Salmonella contaminating the flesh.

Try this Cantaloupe Sherbet from Health mag

Cherries: Thanks to a high level of an antioxidant called cyaniding, sweet cherries are great cancer fighters. They also contain anthocyanin, which not only improves the memory but prevents free radical damage to the body, reducing inflammation of arthritis. They contain melatonin, a hormone that regulates the body’s sleep cycles, improving sleep.

Try this Chipotle Cherry Salsa from Iowa Girl Eats

Kiwi: Contains more vitamin C than oranges and is especially effective against respiratory health problems such as shortness of breath, asthma and cough – as few as 2 a week can make a difference!

Kiwi also contains Vitamin C, which may reduce the severity of symptoms in people with rheumatoid arthritis or osteoarthritis. They are also a good source of potassium, which prevents the weakening of bones. One study demonstrated that eating 2-3 kiwi fruits a day can reduce the potential for blood clots and decrease triglycerides.

Try one of these recipes for Kiwi from Eating Well

Bon Appetite!

What is your favorite summer fruit?