1. They Come in an Infinite Variety
When you consider the fruits you are already familiar with, and the many exotic and tropical varieties you may not have tried, you realize that fresh fruit offers a journey of taste adventures that can last a lifetime. Some exciting fruits you might want to enjoy more often include loquats, papaya, mango, mandarin lime, kiwi, passion fruit, guava, star fruit and Gac fruit, among others. Why not invite some friends over for an exotic fruit tasting? You will have fun and discover some luscious new favorites along the way.
2. They are Best Enjoyed in Season
Although you can find most fruits imported nearly any time of the year, buying fresh fruits in season is a good habit to get into. For one thing, you can obtain more locally produced fruit at your neighborhood Farmer's Market this way, which is typically the best tasting and at the peak of freshness. You can also get better prices on organically grown local fruit at these outdoor markets than in many stores. It is good for your health and the planet to support your local farmers, and it helps get you more involved with your community as well.
3. They are Often Best When Organically Grown
Although you may not choose to go 100 percent organic, it makes sense to target some fruits over others when you can. For example, according to the Environmental Working Group, nectarines have the highest percentage of pesticides, followed by peaches, apples, and strawberries. On the other hand, the fruits least likely to be contaminated with pesticide residues are avocados, pineapples, mangoes, kiwis and bananas. So when possible, you can put your food dollar where it counts most for your health.
4. They can Brighten up Your Life
Fresh fruits can literally brighten your world. Not only do they come in some of the most beautiful colors imaginable, they bring a positive, healthy energy into any space they fill. Just try placing a lavish bowl of fresh fruit somewhere in your home and watch the reactions from family and visitors. Seeing these richly colored, delicious, health promoting foods has an uplifting effect on many people. In fact, gift baskets filled with a rainbow of fresh fruits and flowers are one of the nicest offerings you can bring to any social gathering.
5. They Make Great Natural Beauty Aids
Since many department store skin care products are not only costly, but may also contain chemical additives, you might consider making some of your own fruit-based skin treatments. For example, fresh lemon juice mixed with plain yogurt makes a soothing facial cleanser. Another wonderful fruit for your skin is papaya, which can benefit all skin types. Papaya contains natural enzymes that gently exfoliate the skin, and may even help with skin health issues like acne. And fresh, mashed avocado blended with a bit of honey makes a beautifully moisturizing facial mask.
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