Be Well

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Seasonal Fruits Ripe for the Pickin'

We recently visited a local farmer's market to get the 411 on these seasonal fruits. Learn more about what fruits are in season, their health benefits, and how to make a good selection.


Honeydew

Benefits

  • Fat and cholesterol free, low sodium
  • Boosts immune system
  • Lowers blood pressure
  • High water content leads to healthier, smooth,
    firm skin
  • Promotes eye health

How to pick ‘em

  • Creamy, white, pale, waxy rind
  • Bounces back when you press it
  • Should have a noticeable smell, in a good way
  • Heavy for its size
     


Mangoes

Benefits

  • Low fat, sodium and cholesterol free
  • Boosts immune system and lowers risk for cancer
  • Promotes hair growth
  • Clears up acne
  • Improves eye health, bone health, and digestion

How to pick ‘em

  • Sweet aroma
  • Should give slightly with a light squeeze

Pineapple

Benefits

  • Fat and cholesterol free, low sodium
  • High in vitamin C
  • Boosts immune system
  • Boosts energy production
    (excellent source of manganese and thiamin)
  • Promotes eye health

How to pick ‘em

  • No soft spots
  • Sweet smell at the stem end
  • Heavy for its size

Limes

Benefits

  • Fat, sodium, and cholesterol free
  • Improves digestion and prevents heart diseases
  • Reduces body odor and dandruff
  • Leads to healthier skin whether eaten or
    applied directly
  • Assists in weight loss

How to pick 'em

  • Light green/yellow, smooth skin
  • Should give slightly with a light squeeze
  • Heavy for its size


Oranges

Benefits

  • Fat, sodium, and cholesterol free
  • Helps fight skin, lung, breast, stomach,
    and colon cancer
  • Lowers cholesterol and risk of disease
  • Improves heart and skin health
  • Promotes eye health

 

Be well, Auburn.

How to pick ‘em

  • No green or white areas on skin
  • Firm, tight skin
  • Heavy for its size

Photography: Cat S.