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Fruit Facts :

Apples are high in soluble fibers which help to lower your blood cholestrol levels.The apple skin contains a small amount of *beta carotene. You’ve heard the old saying, “An apple a day keeps the doctor away”- I’m not sure how scientific that is, but it can’t hurt to try.

Apricots are a great source of *beta carotene, potassium and iron, and when eaten fresh, are a good source of vitamin C. Because apricots contain salicylate,which is an ingredient in aspirin, people with a sensitivity to aspirin can have an allergic reaction.

Cherries are a good source of Vitamin C and have soluble fiber which helps to keep blood cholestrol levels under control. Sour cherries have more nutritional value than the sweet varieties.

Cranberries are too sour to be consumed raw and need to be prepared with quite a bit of sugar in order for them to be edible. Cranberry juice is said to eliminate urinary tract infections because of it’s antibiotic properties that prevent bacteria from growing. Check with your doctor if persistent symptoms exist however.

Oranges are high in Vitamin C as well as several bioflavonoids which may aid in preventing tumor growth. Once they are canned, they lose much of their nutritional value.

Pears should be eaten with the skin on if you want to get the most benefit from it’s Vitamin C. Once they are canned they lose most of their vitamin content.

Pineapple that is fresh contains an enzyme called bromelain, which dissolves proteins. It is beneficial to use the fresh pineapple as a meat or poultry tenderizer, but do not use the fresh pineapple when making gelatin because the bromelain will prevent it from setting up.(Canned pineapple may be used because the heat from the canning process deactivates the bromelain.)

Raisins are dried grapes. One cup of raisins contain over 1,000 mg of potassium and are high in sugar content.

Strawberries are higher in Vitamin C than fresh oranges, and the seeds of the strawberries contain an insoluble fiber beneficial in preventing constipation. (Note: The seeds can cause irritation for those who suffer from diverticulosis, or similar conditions.)

* Beta carotene is an antioxidant when it is consumed from a food source.

For an extra special treat, these wonderful fresh fruits can be smothered in rich, melted chocolate .