Most Delicious Fruits You Can Actually Eat a Lot Of
We know. Most fruits are healthy, and therefore, you could technically eat a lot of them.
But there are some fruits that are better for you than others. For instance, bananas and grapes, while healthy, have a lot of carbs.
So, which ones should you consider for your next afternoon snack? These five fruits are the ones that pack the most nutrients and can lead to a healthier lifestyle when incorporated into your daily diet.
Blueberries
Yes, blueberries are considered a superfood — in fact, 1 cup of blueberries gives you 24 percent of your daily recommended amount of vitamin C. Plus, blueberries are a powerful antioxidant that protects your body against free radicals, which can lead to heart disease and other health problems.
Consistent consumption of blueberries (and lots of them) can even contribute to longevity, as they've been known to help with blood pressure, bone strength, diabetes management, digestion and cancer prevention as well as improve your heart health, skin and even your mental health.
Pro tip: Just eat a handful every morning on their own, or throw some on top of cereal to ensure they're part of your daily diet.
Grapefruits
Grapefruit, like most citrus fruits, is high in vitamins C and A, which help enhance the body's immune system. It, too, is rich in nutrients that protect your body from free radicals, most notably reducing the risk of cancer and macular degeneration.
The flavonoid compounds in grapefruits have also been known to lower the chances of stroke as well as improve cholesterol levels, memory and cognition. Some studies have even shown that eating a grapefruit with every meal can lead to weight loss.
Pro tip: Keep things simple and slice up a grapefruit like you would an orange. You can even throw slices in your glass of water for a flavor boost.
Oranges
Another citrus fruit that's a top source of vitamin C, oranges also contain fiber, which can help in maintaining proper blood sugar levels and reducing bad cholesterol.
The vitamin C content in oranges is also known to boost the immune system, fight anemia, lower blood pressure, improve iron absorption and slow age-related macular degeneration.
Pro tip: While Mandarin oranges aren't as high in vitamin C as navel oranges, they provide greater amounts of two antioxidant phytochemicals: beta-carotene and beta-cryptoxanthin. Plus, they're easier to peel!
Mangoes
We love how sweet mangoes are, but what's better is they're also super nutritious. About 1 cup of mango provides 67 percent of your daily vitamin C value and clocks in at just under 100 calories. In addition to vitamin C, mangoes are also filled with vitamins A, B6, E and K as well as folate, thiamine, magnesium and fiber.
Mangoes have been known to decrease the risk of diabetes and cancer, support digestive and eye health — and they're great for your heart. Just note that mangoes have a lot of natural sugars, so it's important to stick to eating the daily recommended amount on this one.
Pro tip: Buy frozen mangoes, and blend them up into a smoothie for an easy way to incorporate this heart-healthy fruit into your diet.
Apples
Apples keep the doctor away for a reason. Like other fruits on this list, apples are rich in fiber and antioxidants and have been linked to improving gut and brain health as well as reducing the risk of cancer, diabetes and cardiovascular disease.
Studies have even shown that apples can help fight asthma since they protect the lungs from oxidative damage.
Pro tip: If you want to reap all the benefits an apple has to give, the best way to eat one is whole and unpeeled.
For more foods you can gobble up without the guilt, check out "30 Foods You Can Actually Eat a Lot Of."