Make this winter ‘delicious and fruitilicious’ by switching to seasonal winter fruits. Fruits are available all through the year but it is important to incorporate seasonal fruits in your diet as they provide a new balance of nutrition that the body benefits from. Also fruits in season are usually found at the best price too, for instance, the citrus fruits are not only at their juiciest best during winters but also reasonably priced. And what more could you ask for, when the Vitamin C present in them help you fight against cold and flu. Listed below are few popular winter fruits:
Oranges
Oranges add the most welcomed glow in your lifeand diet, during winters. They are a powerhouse of Vitamin C and anthocyanins, which help maintain the sheen of your crowning glory and suppleness of your skin. They are also known to protect our heart and act as a shield against cold and flu.
Carambolas or Star Fruit
This exotic variety of fruits is high in vitamin C, potassium and is extremely waist-friendly. It is loaded with polyphenols which have anti-inflammatory properties and are great for your heart. This yellow fruit is easily available in winters. Don’t forget to aim for the firm, shiny and evenly-coloured ones or precisely, the ones having deep yellow skin with browning on the edges. Add the unripe ones to your tart or substitute them for limes in drinks.
Pomegranate
This is another delicious and healthy winter fruit, rich in antioxidants, polyphenols, iron, phyto chemicals and Vitamin C. Pomegranate acts as a medicine for anaemic patients and protects our body from damaging free-radicals.
Grapes
Fondly referred to as the wine fruit, grapes are good for skin, heart, and other illnesses during winters. They are a rich source of antioxidants, vitamins A and B1, B2 and potassium.Red grapes contain 80 percent of water so just squeeze it to get a refreshing healthy drink. Red grapes are said to help control cholesterol, preventheart attacks and reduce fever.
Guava
All kinds of Guava, be it yellow-to-bright-red varieties, give you as many antioxidants as broccoli does. Guava makes for a wonderful sauce to go with grilled chicken or sea food as well. All you need to do is just make a puree of the pulp with citrus juice, onion and spices.
Banana
The humble banana often does not get its due respect. It is one of the best sources of potassium and helps maintain blood pressure levels during winter. Bananas also help in improving our immune system in the cold rush as they are packed with vitamins.
Fruits brought in from long distances across the globe are harvested while still immature, to ensure that they don't spoil along the way. This not only considerably affects the taste and aroma of your fruits, but also leads to vitamin degradation and nutrient loss. Nevertheless, you end up paying a higher price for inferior quality. Now that you are well updated about winter fruits, go ahead and perk up your immune system this winter.