It’s always best to choose fruit in season. First, its usually less expensive and it tastes better too! Seasonal fruits will depend on where you live; whatever is growing right now in your area is what you should be consuming.
Of course, you must eat organic fruits for the most obvious reason; pesticides. And, studies have shown, organic fruits have considerably more nutrients than fruit treated with chemicals.
Top 8 Summer Fruit Picks
Grapes
Grapes are great because they have resveratrol; an anti-inflammatory and oxidative stress reducer, which prevents premature aging of cells. I also like this fruit for the reason that it’s been shown to contain the hormone melatonin; a hormone produced in the pineal gland, that effectively promotes a restful sleep. As we age, our hormones decline and we don’t sleep as well as we did when we were younger. Sleep is #1 as you age. You must get proper sleep to make all of your anti-aging hormones. I have grapes growing in my garden...almost ready to eat. Love that melatonin!
Honeydew melon
High potassium levels and water content make this fruit great for maintaining healthy blood pressure levels. They also contain vitamin C and copper which is awesome for your skin, as it assists with collagen production and tissue repair. It's also a mood booster; has vitamin B-6. Vitamin B-6 is a vitamin that must be present for the formation of serotonin, our feel good hormone. Serotonin will also help to regulate sleep.
Blueberries
Good things come in small packages. Blueberries are a super, powerful little fruit; 3 oz. of blueberries contain more antioxidants than any other fruit.
Watermelon
Watermelon is a good source of Glutathione; an antioxidant and important liver-cleanser… So, if your're planning on partying this summer and wake-up with a hangover.... eat some watermelon; prevents toxic build-up in the liver.
Apricots
Full of beta-carotene, fiber, and a strong dietary source of catechins; these are effective anti-inflammatory phytonutrients. The powerful antioxidant Lycopene is one of the carotenoids found in apricots as well. Studies have found that additional consumption of lycopene and lycopene-rich foods can help reduce the risk of heart disease among women.
Papaya
Papaya contains vitamin C, Vitamin E, and beta-carotene prompting proper function of a healthy immune system. Another benefit - papayas contain papain, an enzyme that helps digest proteins.
Pears
Pears help flush the digestive system of toxins for the reason they are high in fiber and this helps to keep you feeling full longer and therefore has been shown to enhance weight loss.
Cherries
A tasty pain reliever. These little powerhouses contain natural aspirin that helps detoxify inflammation-related substances in the body's tissues and joints.
Happy Summer!
Much love,
Aster