The New Super Fruits

Although research shows that most of us are upping our fruit intake, are we eating the right types of fruit? People tend to stick with what they know-bananas, apples, oranges, and the occasional serving of strawberries or blueberries. Here are five fruits you may not have tried which can be considered the “new super fruits”.

1. Figs. Substitute bananas for figs when possible. Just six figs have 891 mg of potassium which is great for lowering blood pressure and is double of what you find in one banana. Figs also contain high amounts of calcium which is important for bone and teeth health. Figs can be eaten dried on their own or diced into salads or breakfast cereals.

2. Lychee. Instead of grabbing for those green grapes on a hot summer day try the refreshing lychee fruit. This exotic fruit has about 15% more polyphenols (which promotes heart health) than grapes do. Lychee can be a great addition to salads or even simple stir fries.

3. Guava. Substituting oranges for guava will provide your body with about 5 times more Vitamin C and you will also get more bacteria fighting power. Guava has been shown to prevent infections such as Staph or Listeria. Guava adds an extra kick to smoothies and can even be put in baked goods such as pies or cobblers.

4. Asian pears. Asian pears not only taste delicious but contain high amounts of fiber which will keep you feeling full and looking slim. These pears are more refreshing than apples and provide more health benefits. Just one Asian pear has 40% of your daily fiber needs. These pears are delicious on their own or diced into a fresh salad.

5. Papaya. Substituting papaya for watermelon may give your body more protection against lung, stomach, endometrial, and prostate cancers. Papaya contains beta-crypoxanthin and lycopene (as does watermelon). Papaya can easily be added to fruit salad or smoothies.

Keeping your diet rich in fruits and vegetables will ensure your body is getting high amounts of antioxidants , minerals, and vitamins which will keep you feeling great and fight disease.