A healthy diet is the foundation of a healthy life, making five-a-day a crucial target for everyone.
While any type of fruit is good and essential for a healthier diet, certain options can give you much better mileage when it comes to maximising your nutrient intake, according to a nutritionist.
Fortunately, James Vickers, Nutrition Lead at Vitality, outlined the three nutritionally-packed fruits that could supercharge your diet.
1.Raspberries
Vickers said: “From a nutritional perspective, studies have shown eating more fibre can significantly reduce your risk of colon cancer.
“Not many people know this, but raspberries are one of the most fibre-rich fruits you can eat as part of a healthy diet.
“They also have superb protective properties that can help shield your cells from damage with tons of crucial nutrients like magnesium, vitamin K and vitamin C.”
If raspberries aren’t your number one choice, the nutritionist shared that any berry you can get your hands on can “level your diet up” – think a small cup of strawberries, blackberries, blueberries or blackcurrants a day.
2.Bananas
The inexpensive fruits offer a punch of pectin, a key soluble fibre for gut health. Plus, the starch in your daily banana also has a prebiotic effect that could boost your gut’s good bacteria, the expert shared.
Vickers said: “They also pack a serious punch when it comes to essential micronutrients, such as potassium, which can help you keep a healthier blood pressure and maintain good heart health.”
3.Plums
According to the nutritionist, plums are considered to be “a health powerhouse”. He added: “With a high concentration of antioxidants, adding a portion of this superfruit to your diet can help your body fight off harmful compounds called ‘free radicals’. These ‘free radicals’ have been linked to health conditions such as diabetes and cancer.”
Plus, the juicy fruits are also low in sugar, making them a “good option” for those looking to manage their blood sugar levels.