Want to lose weight, build up your immune system and ward off illness and disease? Start eating these four fruits and change your life forever.
1. Cranberries
One of the natural health success stories of the past few years have been cranberries. Cranberries have proved their value in preventing urinary tract infections, such as cystitis. Many people now eat them every day as a first line of defense against these painful and dangerous conditions. The powerful ingredient is a flavonoid proanthocyanidins, which is more abundant in cranberries than in most other fruit. Proanthocyanidins prevent bacteria from sticking to the urinary tract wall, and also prevents infections of the mouth and stomach in the same way. Cranberries are packed with vitamins C and K, magnesium, and fiber which helps to sweep away fat. As a natural diuretic it also helps with water retention.
2. Kiwi Fruit
Bite for bite, there is more vitamin C in a ripe kiwi fruit than in most other citrus fruits. And although vitamin C is well known for warding off colds, its effects go much further than that. It protects the body from all kinds of infections and inflammation, and is particularly effective against respiratory disease. Scientists have found it helps reduce coughing, wheezing, and rhinitis. People who eat kiwi fruit are less likely than others to suffer from asthma attacks, but it shouldn't be given to very small children as it can cause allergies. It is also good for the heart and vision. Eating kiwi fruits regularly has also been found to lower blood cholesterol and reduce the risk of blot clots.
3. Oranges
Oranges are known for their immune boosting power. A medium-size orange provides more than the average daily requirement of vitamin C, which fights off infections and strengthens the body's defenses. Particularly effective against colds and other respiratory ailments, including asthma, oranges have also been found to reduce the risk of stomach ulcers, kidney stones, and certain cancers. Their natural sugars help diabetics maintain their blood glucose levels. And a teaspoon of grated organic orange peel added to food can reduce cholesterol.
4. Raspberries
The flavonoids called anthocyanins that give a raspberry its exquisite color are also responsible for some of its most valuable qualities. They have antimicrobial effects that can prevent the proliferation of bacteria and fungi in the digestive system. One of these, Candida albicans, causes the irritating vaginal infection called thrush and has also been linked to digestive disorders, such as irritable bowel syndrome. Like all berries, raspberries are also packed with antioxidants that promote overall health in the long term. They protect eyesight; reduce the risk of certain cancers, and their soluble fiber content helps to keep blood sugar levels steady, which in turn aids in weight reduction.
All four of the fruits mentioned above are citrus fruits. Citrus fruits contain limonin, which is currently being researched for its ant-cancer and cholesterol-lowering possibilities.
