Want to add some variety to your diet, while also making sure that you’re eating what ‘s best for your body? Try adding some more exotic fruit choices to your diet! You may have run into some of these fruits in the produce isle of your nearby grocery store – give them a try, and enjoy some new flavors while also improving your health!
Papaya – Native to Central and South America, papaya is the best known source of papain – an enzyme that is very efficient at breaking down protein (it’s so good that it’s used in meat tenderizers!) – and…well, it’s also a great natural way to stay “regular”. Loaded with potassium, folate, and vitamin C. Just cut them in half, scoop out the seeds – and enjoy! (Plus, the seeds – grind them up and use them as a substitute for black pepper!). And, half a papaya has only 59 calories! In season year round.
Star Fruit – Native to Asia, this fruit is low in calories. Plus, it packs a punch that is great for your heart! It’s high in vitamin A, fiber and potassium, plus it’s a great source of polypheonols – antioxidants that fight cardiovascular inflammation. With a taste similar to a ultra-sweet plum, it’s quite tasty as well! In season July through September. Cut it into little stars (you’re kids will love it!) – and enjoy only 28 calories per serving!
Uniq Fruit – Native to Jamaica, this fruit is loaded with vitamin C and carotenoids. Flavor wise – it’s thought to be a cross between a grapefruit and tangerine. With a sharp, tart, citrusy flavor, this fruit is a great way to fight off colds. Eat it like you would a grapefruit or tangerine, but it’s very messy – so have napkins handy! 45 calories per fruit, and you can find it under its trade name – Ugli Fruit.
Passion Fruit – Native to South America, Passion Fruit is loaded with vitamin A and copious amounts of fiber (15 grams of fiber – half of what you should have daily)– add this fruit to your diet to help you keep control of your cholesterol! And, it also has more potassium than a banana. Available year round – if you eat 8 of these little guys, this serving size has 140 calories – and make sure you eat the seeds – that’s where you get the fiber!
Guava – Native to South America, Guava helps boost your immune system with 70 percent of the vitamin C you need daily – a total of 128mg! Plus, it’s loaded with carotenoids – which help boost your immune system as well. In season October through December, one Guava has about 37 calories. Spoon out the pulp like a grapefruit, or eat it like an orange!
