Here are some surprising health benefits of 10 popular fruits.

#1 Pomegranate for Heart Health

Symbolising fertility and rebirth, pomegranates are a valuable tonic for women. Also high in fibre, vitamin C and potassium, they are said to strengthen gums, sooth mouth ulcers and improve circulation. The juice has become a popular health drink with more antioxidants than red wine or green tea. A glass a day keeps heart disease away. 

The antioxidants in the juice and their high concentration are believed to stall the progress of Alzheimer disease and protect memory.

#2 Rockmelon for the Eye Health

A refreshing fruit belonging to the cucumber family. It is rich in betacarotene, a nutrient essential for good eye health. Rockmelon is also a good source of Vitamin C, potassium, vitamin B6, folic acid and niacin (vitamin B3). 

Consumption of melons can contribute to healthy cholesterol levels and are low in calories and have a high water content, which makes them very weight loss friendly.

#3 Kiwi fruit Best form of Vitamin C

Vitamin C acts as a powerful antioxidant in the body. This vitamin is also essential for immune system function. And eating just 1 kiwifruit provides more than your daily needs of vitamin C. 

Kiwi fruit also contains polyphenols and vitamin E, antioxidants that help protect the heart. Eating 3 a day reduces the risk of blood clot formation by 18% as well as supporting heart health. Because they are high in potassium, they help those prone to fluid retention and high blood pressure. 

#4 Coconut oil for Thyroid support

The pulp is rich in fibre and a good source of magnesium, iron, zinc, phosphorus and copper. Coconuts oils is rich in medium – chain fatty acids (MCFAs), which boost metabolism, support thyroid function and fight infection. 

#5 Dates boost Potassium levels

With only 100 kilojoules per date and loads of fibre, these are nature’s best sweets. Bite for bite, they have 3 times more potassium than bananas and a hefty dose of iron, magnesium and B vitamins. 

They also contains protein-digesting enzymes, which aid digestion and gave a gentle laxative effect.

The seeds can be dried crushed and used like peppercorns to add flavour to salad dressings. Try adding a them into your breakfast smoothie or simply enjoy them as a dried fruit option. 

#6 Figs for additional Fibre

1 dried fig provides 20% of the recommended daily dose of both soluble and insoluble fibre, which together prove effective at preventing bowel cancer. 

Figs are rich in calcium, potassium and iron and also contain antioxidant and omega 3 & 6 fatty acids, and are said to be good for treating coughs and other chesty complaints.

#7 Bananas boost Energy levels

During ripening, the starches in bananas turn into sugar, making them a great source of energy. They are rich in potassium and easy to digest, helping to relieve both diarrhea and constipation. 

#8 Pineapple for fluid retention 

This fruit is rich in potassium, vitamin C and bromelain, a protein-based digesting enzyme, and can relieve upset stomachs. It can help treat fluid retention. May help to Boost Immunity and Suppress Inflammation.

#9 Mangos boost Beta Carotene levels

In Hindu teachings, mangoes were known as “fruits of heavenly joy”. One mango provides more than the recommended daily dose of vitamin C, 80% of your daily requirement for vitamin A, derived from betacarotene, plus plenty of vitamin E. 

Mangos also boost potassium, iron, and niacin (vitamin B ) levels. They also contain nutrients that support eye and skin health. 

Eat them dried as a yummy snack as a good part of an overall healthy diet.

#10 Paw Paw for Digestion

Paw Paw’s are rich in vitamin C and a good source of folic acid – an important nutrient for expectant mothers. 

They also contains protein-digesting enzymes, which aid digestion and have a gentle laxative effect if constipated.

Don’t throw out the seeds…they can be dried, crushed and used like peppercorns to add flavour to salad dressings. Try adding them to a bottle combined with a little Lime juice and Olive oil or simply enjoy Paw Paw as a dried fruit snack.