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GreaterUpperValley.com

Top 5 Fruits

Nov 22, 2010 07:56PM ● By Erin Frisch

Fruit

Pick bright, colorful produce for health benefits

“We really should be smart about the fruits we consume,” says nutritionist Iva Young, who recommends opting for choices that are low in sugar. “If you pick the right fruits and eat the proper portions, then you will give your body what it needs and it will benefit greatly from your efforts,” Young advises.

Young named the following fruits as her top five:

  • Raspberries - Raspberries are an excellent source of fiber, offering 30 percent of our recommended daily value, 8 grams per serving. Raspberries are also a rich source of vitamin C, with about 50 percent of our daily value. In addition, they are a rich source of manganese. Raspberries rank near the top of all fruits for antioxidant strength and contain many anti-disease properties if consumed regularly, helping to fight against inflammation, chronic pain, cancer, cardiovascular disease, diabetes, allergies, age-related cognitive decline, and eyesight degeneration associated with aging.
  • Blackberries - Blackberries are notable for their high nutritional contents of dietary fiber, vitamin C, vitamin K, folic acid, and manganese. Blackberries have strong antioxidant levels, and they also contain omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids.
  • Kiwi - Kiwi is a rich source of vitamin C and vitamin K, which is a natural blood thinner. It’s also a good source of potassium, just slightly less than that of a banana. Potassium is one of those nutrients that’s absolutely essential for heart health, yet many people don’t get nearly enough.
  • Strawberries - Strawberries are low in calories compared to many other fruits, and are a good source of fiber. They are also an excellent source of vitamin C and flavonoids, promoting lots of antioxidant activity in the body.
  • Oranges - Oranges are an excellent source of vitamins A and C, along with powerful antioxidants. Oranges also provide a good source of fiber when the pulp is consumed.

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