Fruit Facts
With Spring knocking at our door I thought I’d put up some interesting fruit facts!
Apples
Apples are high in a photochemical called Quercetin. Quercetin prevents the release of histamine, which reduces inflammation. This is believed by researchers to play a key role in the apple’s protective effects against heart disease. Apples are also a good source of pectin, which is known to help to lower cholesterol.
Bananas
Bananas are an excellent source for potassium. Potassium is a key electrolyte which plays important roles in regulating fluid balance, which is essential for maintaining a healthy blood pressure. Foods which are high in potassium are considered to be heart healthy because they help to lower blood pressure and prevent heart disease.
Cantaloupe
Cantaloupe contains a substance called adenosine which is used as a blood thinner and to relieve angina attacks in individuals who suffer from heart disease.
Oranges
Oranges are a good source of pectin, a dietary fiber which is well known for its effectiveness at lowering cholesterol levels. Whole fruit contains more pectin than fruit juice. Eating 15 grams or more of fruit pectin each day has been to reduce cholesterol levels by 10 %. One whole orange contains about 7.5 grams of pectin. This means that eating 2 oranges each day will result in a 20% reduced risk of heart disease!