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Eating a variety of fruits is important for a balanced diet, as they contain vitamins and minerals that help the body function optimally. Keeping fruit visible and combining it with meals can make it easier to consume. Healthy fruit desserts can replace high-sugar options. The amount of fruit needed varies by individual and can be determined by a doctor or nutritionist.
Fruits are an important part of a balanced diet because they contain many different vitamins, minerals, and other substances that help your body function at an optimal level. For example, bananas are high in potassium, a mineral that plays a role in keeping your heart healthy, and strawberries are high in vitamin C, which helps your body heal faster when injured. Eating healthier fruit doesn’t require much effort; It can be as simple as grabbing an apple on your way out the door in the morning or swapping out your usual dessert for a fruit-based one.
Keeping healthy fruit available in your kitchen is the first step in adding more to your diet. Make fruit a priority on your shopping list and buy a variety of different kinds. Fruits that don’t require refrigeration can be stored in a container on your counter so you can see them when you walk into the kitchen. Fruit in the refrigerator should be in the front, along with other healthy foods, such as vegetables and low-fat yogurt. By making healthy fruit the first food you see, you’re more likely to choose that option over less healthy snacks.
An easy way to add healthy fruit to your diet is to combine it with your breakfast. Add some blueberries to your pancake mix, bananas to your whole grain cereal, or strawberries to your granola. If you have extra time, add all three to some skim milk in a blender and make a fruit smoothie. Juice also counts as a healthy fruit serving, as long as it’s 100% fruit juice with no added sugar.
A healthy mid-morning snack can help keep your energy levels up and prevent sugar crashes that lead to tiredness or irritability. Avoid the temptation to grab a quick, unhealthy snack from a vending machine by keeping healthy fruit available. Keep a box of raisins or a bag of dried fruit in your desk, work bag or purse for a healthy mid-morning snack.
After dinner, skip the high-sugar, high-fat dessert and opt for a healthy fruit dessert. Try a parfait made with low-fat yogurt, strawberries, blueberries, and a dash of blended granola. Top some baked peaches with a small scoop of nonfat vanilla ice cream. Fruit salad is a good dessert option because you can customize it to your personal taste. Simply add a little of each of your favorite fruits to a bowl, mix to blend, and enjoy.
The amount of fruit you need each day depends on your age, gender, and level of physical activity. Certain medical conditions can also affect how much fruit you should eat. Your doctor or nutritionist can help you determine the optimal number of servings for your needs.
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