Eating a moderate amount of seasonal fruits and vegetables helps to supplement a variety of nutrients and boost immunity. However, when shopping in the supermarket during winter, "off-season food" is one of the most commonly heard phrases. In fact, winter also has many "star fruits," and they offer different health benefits.
Apple
In addition to containing basic nutrients like potassium, calcium, and iron, apples are also rich in functional components like pectin, phenolic acids, and flavonoids, which contribute to good health. Epidemiological studies have found that eating apples helps reduce the risk of various diseases such as cancer, cardiovascular disease, asthma, and diabetes.
Orange
Oranges are rich in Vitamin B1, a nutrient that plays an important role in nerve signal transmission. Furthermore, the carotene content in oranges is far higher than in other fruits; it can be converted into Vitamin A in the human body, helping to protect and improve eyesight. Oranges also contain antioxidant, anti-cancer, and anti-allergy components, which help reduce the incidence of coronary heart disease, stroke, and hypertension.
Grapefruit
Grapefruit is rich in carotene, B vitamins, Vitamin C, and various minerals. Grapefruit has a nature that is偏寒 (slightly cooling in nature), and eating it can help to reduce internal heat. Additionally, research has found that naringenin, the unique bitter component in grapefruit, has the same effects as two current drugs for treating type 2 diabetes. It can increase the body's sensitivity to insulin and help control blood sugar.
Orange
Oranges are rich in nutrients such as Vitamin C, calcium, phosphorus, beta-carotene, citric acid, and hesperidin. Studies show that drinking three glasses of orange juice daily can lower cholesterol levels. Additionally, eating oranges in moderation can help relieve coughs and protect the lungs.
Sugarcane
Sugarcane contains many nutrients that the body needs. Its iron content is as high as 1.3 mg/100g, making it the champion among all fruits and earning it the name "blood-enriching fruit." Sugarcane also acts as a natural mouth cleanser. Chewing sugarcane can improve the self-cleaning and anti-cavity ability of teeth and exercise facial muscles.
Hawthorn
Hawthorn is rich in vitamins and minerals, especially the lipase it contains, which promotes the digestion of fatty foods. Furthermore, hawthorn also contains a large amount of flavonoids and organic acids, which have anti-cancer and blood pressure-lowering effects.
Kiwi
Kiwi is one of the fruits with the highest Vitamin C content. Additionally, kiwi is rich in Vitamin K, which is not only related to blood clotting function but also beneficial for bone health. Studies show that the various antioxidants and serotonin in kiwi help improve sleep quality.