
Fruits are rich in vitamins, minerals, and various other compounds which help in proper functioning of the body. This article provides information about the benefits of various nutritious fruits.
Foods high in bad fats, sugar, and chemicals are directly linked to many negative emotions, whereas whole, natural foods rich in nutrients; foods such as fruits, vegetables, grains, and legumes contribute to greater energy and positive emotions – Marilu Henner
Fruits are rich in vitamin A, C, antioxidants, and various minerals. They help in prevention of various heart conditions, control of high blood pressure, and different types of cancer. Fruits are enjoyed in the form of desserts, salads, and even cooked. All fruits are good for health, and their consumption reduces the risk of many diseases.
Health Benefits of the 10 Most Nutritious Fruits
*The following tables contain nutrition values for 100 g of fruit. The information is according to the USDA.
Avocado
A native fruit of Mexico and South America, the avocado is considered to be one of the most nutritious fruits in the world. It is high in Vitamin B, E, and K. It has high protein content, which makes it a suitable substitute for meat in purely vegetarian diets, but should be consumed in moderation. It helps in lowering the cholesterol levels and protect against heart diseases.
Calories | Carbohydrate | Fat & Fatty Acids | Potassium |
240 | 12.8 g | 22 g | 727 mg |
Pomegranates
A glass of pomegranate juice provides 16% of an adult’s daily Vitamin C requirement. It is also a good source of Vitamin B and potassium. It helps in lowering blood pressure, maintains oral health, and reduces diarrhea.
Calories | Carbohydrate | Fat & Fatty Acids | Potassium |
83 | 18.70 g | 1.17 g | 236 mg |
Guava
Guava is a highly nutritious fruit, it is packed with nutrients like vitamin A and C, manganese, folic acid, and potassium. A single guava contains about four times the vitamin C of an orange. It’s good for the skin, has anti-bacterial properties, and helps lower cholesterol level.
Calories | Carbohydrate | Fat & Fatty Acids | Potassium |
70 | 16 g | 1 g | 460 mg |
Kiwifruit
The kiwi is distinctive for its unusual appearance and sweet yet tangy taste. It is an excellent source of vitamin C and E, and its edible skin is a good source of dietary fibers. Kiwifruit acts as a blood thinner, and helps in asthma. This fruit is especially healthy for young children.
Calories | Carbohydrate | Fat & Fatty Acids | Potassium |
61 | 14.66 g | 0.52 g | 312 mg |
Grapefruit
A member of the citrus family, the grapefruit offers various health benefits. It’s known for helping in weight loss and cutting down the cholesterol level in our body. It is rich in folic acid and potassium, which protects your heart and prevents cancer. It is a fiber-filled fruit, and has a low calorie content.
Calories | Carbohydrate | Fat & Fatty Acids | Potassium |
32 | 8 g | 0 g | 139 mg |
Watermelon
It is a rich source of lycopene, which lowers the risk of all kinds of cancer. It’s a good source of vitamin B, A, and C, as well as fiber. It has no fat or cholesterol.
Calories | Carbohydrate | Fat & Fatty Acids | Potassium |
30 | 8 g | 0.2 g | 112 mg |
Strawberry
Strawberries are a good source of Vitamin C and E, potassium, and lutein, which improves eyesight. Berries are also known to help in prevention of cancer and bladder infections. They are also a good source of antioxidants.
Calories | Carbohydrate | Fat & Fatty Acids | Potassium |
33 | 8 g | 0.3 g | 153 mg |
Blueberry
Blueberries are rich sources of vitamin C and antioxidants. One cup of this fruit provides approximately 14% of recommended daily dosage of fibers. They are also good source of manganese, which helps in the development of bones, and conversion of carbohydrates and fat into energy.
Calories | Carbohydrate | Fat & Fatty Acids | Potassium |
57 | 14 g | 0.3 g | 77 mg |
Mango
The king of fruits has Vitamin A, B, C, E, K, and minerals like potassium and calcium. The presence of gallic acid makes it a great blood cleanser. Mangoes also restore energy, and are good for the skin.
Calories | Carbohydrate | Fat & Fatty Acids | Potassium |
60 | 15 g | 0.4 g | 168 mg |
Apples
Apples help to control the blood sugar, and act as a good antidepressant. They reduce cholesterol level, hence are helpful in weight loss. They also lower the risk of cancer. The skin of this fruit contains quercetin, which provides protection against Alzheimer’s disease.
Calories | Carbohydrate | Fat & Fatty Acids | Potassium |
52 | 14 g | 0.2 g | 107 mg |
Papayas
The papaya fruit aids in digestion, and therefore is helpful in weight loss. It’s a natural storehouse of nutrients, like vitamin A, C, E, and potassium. It helps in improving eyesight. People who smoke should include it in their diet, as smoking causes deficiency of vitamin A, and papaya helps to restore it.
Calories | Carbohydrate | Fat & Fatty Acids | Potassium |
43 | 11 g | 0.3 g | 182 mg |
Fruits are a fun way to introduce nutrients into a child’s diet, as most kids prefer eating fruits than vegetables. All fruits are nutritious, so eat a wide range of fruits, and don’t just stick to any one kind. Also, try to have a new fruit every other week, as each fruit has different health benefits. For variety, try making a fruit salad. Chopped, peeled, or whole, fruits are nature’s candy packed with nutrients.