7 Boring Fruits with Incredible Health Benefits
When we consider the diverse benefits of fruits, it is almost impossible not to get excited about eating them. Fruits have amazing colours, texture, and taste to make one hooked. In all these, some individuals find some fruits boring for different reasons. For example, some people often gravitate toward the more exotic and visually appealing varieties like dragon fruit, kiwi, or pomegranate.
The more common and seemingly boring fruits can be loaded with nutrients, offering numerous health benefits that are often overlooked. Here are seven fruits that, despite their boring appearances are packed with incredible benefits.
Top 7 Boring Fruits with Incredible Benefits
Apples
According to the popular saying; an apple a day keeps the doctor away. If this saying is true, what’s not to like about it? A medium apple contains about 95 calories, 25 grams of carbohydrates, and 4 grams of fiber, and is a good source of vitamin C.
As an excellent source of dietary fibre, consuming apples aids digestion and helps maintain a healthy weight. The fibre in apples, particularly pectin, acts as a prebiotic, feeding the beneficial bacteria in your gut.
Consuming apples has been linked to a lower risk of heart disease. The soluble fibre found in apples helps reduce blood cholesterol levels, while their polyphenols, especially the flavonoid epicatechin, have antioxidant effects that can lower blood pressure.
Bananas
Let’s talk about this snack-worthy berry. A medium banana contains about 105 calories, 27 grams of carbohydrates, 3 grams of fibre and is rich in vitamins B6 and C.
Bananas are renowned for their high potassium content for heart health, muscle function, and maintaining healthy blood pressure.
What’s more? The dietary fibre in bananas, including resistant starch and pectin, helps regulate digestion and prevent constipation. They provide a quick energy source, making them a common choice for athletes and those needing a pre-workout snack.
Pears
Some people might agree that pears are a boring fruit. Despite all, it is sitting pretty on the list. A medium pear contains about 101 calories, 27 grams of carbohydrates, and 6 grams of fiber, and is a good source of vitamin C and vitamin K.
Pears are another great source of dietary fibre, particularly insoluble fibre, which promotes regular bowel movements and overall digestive health. They contain flavonoids and antioxidants that offer anti-inflammatory benefits, which can help reduce the risk of chronic diseases.
Oranges
Don’t act surprised, not everyone finds oranges exciting. A medium orange contains about 62 calories, 15 grams of carbohydrates, and 3 grams of fiber, and offers more than 100% of the daily recommended Vitamin C intake.
Oranges are famous for their high vitamin C content, to improve the immune system and skin health. The flavonoids in oranges, especially hesperidin have been shown to improve blood vessel function and lower blood pressure.
Additionally, they are packed with antioxidants, which protect cells from damage and reduce inflammation.
Grapes
A cup of grapes contains about 62 calories, 16 grams of carbohydrates, 1 gram of fibre, and vitamins C and K. Grapes contain powerful antioxidants like resveratrol linked to improved heart health and protection against cardiovascular disease.
The polyphenols in grapes have been shown to enhance brain function and protect against neurodegenerative diseases.
Plums
Here’s another fruit many can agree to be boring. A medium plum contains about 30 calories, 8 grams of carbohydrates, and 1 gram of fibre and is a good source of vitamins C and K.
Plums and their dried counterparts, prunes, are well-known for their laxative effects due to their high fibre and sorbitol content. They have been shown to help prevent bone loss and improve bone density, making them beneficial for preventing osteoporosis.
Watermelon
A cup of diced watermelon contains about 46 calories, 11 grams of carbohydrates, and vitamins A and C. Watermelon is composed of about 92% water, making it excellent for hydration, especially during hot weather.
Watermelon contains citrulline, an amino acid that can help lower blood pressure and improve heart health. The antioxidants in watermelon, such as lycopene and vitamin C, have anti-inflammatory properties that protect against chronic diseases.
Conclusion
While these fruits might seem commonplace, their health benefits are anything but ordinary. Incorporating them into your diet can offer a range of nutrients and health benefits, from improving digestion and heart health to boosting the immune system and preventing chronic diseases. So, the next time you're at the grocery store, don't overlook these boring fruits—they might be the key to a healthier you.