Everyone knows that oranges are full of vitamin C, and that helps with a cold – but fruits offer so much more than just Vitamin C. In fact, many people believe you can treat specific symptoms by eating specific fruits and vegetables. If you take fruit to your workplace, or if you have a fruit basket in your staff room where you can choose fruit to eat, you may be interested to know exactly what these fruits are doing for your body. So, next time you are sat at your desk chomping on an apple, why not consider what it is doing to your body? Here’s a quick round up of just some items which can provide you with much more than just a quick snack:
Bananas: According to research from Fruitful Office, bananas contain approximately 400 mg of potassium – which is more than the recommended daily intake of this important mineral. Potassium is good for cramps in the legs, which can often plague people at night. It is also good if you suffer with fatigue, constipation or bloating. Additionally, according to a study carried out by MIND, bananas are known to improve your mood and generally make you feel happier due to its high levels of trypotophan, a type of protein that the body converts into serotonin.
Strawberries: According to BBC Good Food, strawberries are an excellent source of vitamins C and K as well as providing fibre, folic acid, manganese and potassium. They also contain phytonutrients and flavanoids (which makes strawberries bright red.) They say that they “have been used throughout history in a medicinal context to help with digestive ailments, teeth whitening and skin irritations. Their fibre and fructose content may help regulate blood sugar levels by slowing digestion and the fibre is thought to have a satiating effect.” Remember not to eat too much cream with your strawberries, though!
Apples: If you suffer with high cholesterol, why not reach for an apple? The soluble fibre found in apples are known to bind with fats in the gut, which means lower cholesterol levels and a healthier you. Apples are also good for IBS and can help to control weight.
Grapes: If you have asthma, try upping your intake of grapes. The hydrating effect of grapes is high, which increases the moisture which is present in the lungs and therefore could reduce asthmatic episodes.
Plums: Do you suffer with diabetes? According to Organicfacts, plums exert anti-hyperglycemic effects and help in combating diabetes. Many studies have shown that eating plums aids in reducing blood glucose and triglyceride levels in the body, which is all good for diabetes sufferers.
Apricots: If you have anaemia, eating apricots in dried or fresh form is good for boosting iron levels. Fresh apricot also contains rich sources of antioxidants, so if you have an infection, eating this fruit can help you to recover more quickly. What’s also great about this fruit is that eating an apricot will fill you up, but doesn’t contain calories, so this is ideal if you are trying to lose weight or control your weight.
