Although we could all benefit from a tropical getaway, our bodies can benefit from the fruits of those regions on a daily basis. By adding tropical fruit to your diet, you not only increase your daily value of vitamins but also can prolong your overall health and well being.
These fruits can mostly be found in the produce section of your local market. You may also find them in the frozen section as well. The particular fruits discussed in this article are considered among the healthiest and most beneficial for the human body.
Mango
The mango is a stone fruit because of the inedible stone-like seed found at its core. The yellow fleshy meat is very soft and juicy. Mangos are cultivated in Southeast Asia, the West Indies, and Mexico, but the largest source comes from China.
This magical little fruit is overflowing with goodness and nutrients, including vitamins A and C, B6, Iron, Folate, Zinc and vitamin E. The high amounts of A and C can replenish the skin and reduce signs of aging. Vitamin C plays an important role in the elasticity of your skin. Vitamin A is needed by your cells for growth in your hair, skin, and nails and helps to protect them from the damaging elements found in our environment.
Just like most fruits, mangos don’t have to just be consumed raw. They can be used in a variety of ways such as ice cream, sauces, and even mango syrup.
Papaya
The papaya is probably among the least common and probably the most overlooked. The papaya originated in Mexico, more specifically in Chiapas and Veracruz. Now they are grown in both South America and Central America but enjoyed worldwide.
In Asia, papaya is used as a post-meal fruit due to the high amounts of fiber it contains. This helps aid in digestion and in several studies has shown to improve constant constipation. Daily consumption can aid in weight loss as well.
Papaya contains 200% of the daily requirement for vitamin C, combined with the fiber and natural antioxidants, it can prevent cholesterol build up in your arteries.
Papayas are great served in sauces, desserts, and puddings.
Banana
This wonderful fruit is not monkeying around when it comes to your health. The aromatic banana can be found growing all over Central America in such countries as Panama, Ecuador, Guatemala, and Costa Rica.
Bananas are a very common fruit here in the US, but you may not realize that these fun little fruits are team healthy body all the way. The banana is a powerhouse of potassium. Potassium helps to prevent muscle aches which is especially beneficial during the hotter months of the year. In fact, a medium-size banana contains 422mg of Potassium and 3 grams of dietary fiber. There are many recipes for easy desserts using banana such as a No Bake Banana Pudding Pie.
Pineapple
The pineapple comes to us from Brazil and Paraguay. Pineapple comes from the Bromeliad Family. Bromeliad is a cluster of berries that grows around one central point. That means that each scale of the pineapple is actually an individual berry and can be pulled off in pieces.
Pineapple contains 75% of the daily value of manganese which is essential for normal brain and nerve function. Manganese also supports strong bones and connective tissue. Pineapple is often used as a natural decongestant and also contains thiamin and B vitamins.
Pineapple can be used in sauces such as the Asian sweet and sour sauce. For some people, it is perfectly acceptable as a pizza topping.
Avocado
Last but not least, let’s address the tropical superfood, the avocado. Avocados are grown all over Mexico and is a staple in most average cocinas.
This odd little fruit, that could resemble a dragon egg, is a powerhouse of nutrition. Avocado contains vitamins C, E, K, and B6. In fact, the avocado contains 25% of the daily recommended value of vitamin K, supporting strong bones and preventing osteoporosis later in life.
Avocados are best served in salads and on sandwiches. For information on preserving your fruit at its peak in order to make it last, see this article from the New York Times.
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