Fruit provides fiber for a healthy digestive system, and antioxidant nutrients to protect the cells and tissues.

Key nutrients: Vitamin C, iron, potassium, sodium, phosphorus, calcium, sulphur.

Benefits

Apples and their juice are cleansing and detoxifying. They help treat intestinal infections, inflammation of the colon, gout, diarrhea and acidity. Pectin, contained in the apple, reduces cholesterol.

One apple, with the skin, has about 3.6 grams of fiber, nearly 17 percent of the recommended dietary fiber intake. An apple a day is enough to contribute substantially to colon health.

Key nutrients: Potassium, folate, sodium, chlorine, iron, glucose, amino acids.

Benefits

Bananas help detoxify the body; often used to treat constipation and ulcers, they are good for the nerves, muscles and enhance functioning of the immune system. Rich in potassium and sugar, they also provide the body with nourishment and energy.

A large banana has about 100 calories. It is richer in solids and lower in water content than most fresh fruits. It provides instant energy and quick recovery from fatigue.

Key nutrients: Iron, copper, magnesium, sucrose, Vitamin E

Benefits

Cherries are a remedy for arthritis, and rheumatism. Rich in iron, they improve the blood and treat anemia. Black cherry juice is excellent for gout, gums and teeth.

Key nutrients: Iron, magnesium, calcium, sulphur, Vitamin B, folate, fructose

Benefits

Figs improve digestion and functioning of the stomach, spleen-pancreas and large intestine. Rich in iron and calcium, they also improve blood quality and build strong bones.

Figs help to balance acidic conditions that result from a diet rich in meat and refined food.

Key nutrients: Iron, potassium, phosphorus, glucose, salicylates, Vitamins B and E.

Benefits

High in sugar, grapes are a good source of energy. They contain valuable cell salts known to build and purify the blood (useful for anemia). Grape juice is a valuable remedy for liver malfunctions such as hepatitis and jaundice.

Grapes contain salicylates, the same compound used to make aspirin.

Key nutrients: Potassium, folate, iron, amino acids, zinc, Vitamin B and C.

Benefits

Grapefruit helps protect the arteries, reduces the risk of cancer, aids digestion, speeds the breakdown of fat and boosts the immune system.

Key nutrients: Vitamin C, folate, potassium, sodium, citric acid, iron, manganese, calcium

Benefits

Orange is a general tonic for weak digestion, improves the immunity system and helps combat fevers. It regenerates body fluids and helps build strong bones and teeth.

D-limonene, found in oranges, is a natural cholesterol lowering substance.

Key nutrients: Vitamin A and E, silicon, potassium, calcium, copper, folate, fructose.

Benefits

Papaya contains the enzyme papain, which improves digestion. It reduces the risk of cancer, heart disease and cataracts. It also helps rid the body of intestinal worms, eases inflammation and combats constipation.

Key nutrients: Vitamins B and C, calcium, iron, magnesium, potassium, sodium, citric acid.

Benefits

Lemon has antiseptic properties, and is useful during dysentery, flu, colds and coughs. It destroys bad bacteria, benefits the liver, promotes weight loss and purifies the blood. Lemon juice, diluted in water, cools the system (especially during summer) and calms the nerves.

Key nutrients: Vitamins B, C and E, phosphorus, potassium, iron, folate, sucrose.

Benefits

Pineapple is a diuretic, which detoxifies the body, purifies the blood, prevents blood clots and increases circulation. It contains the enzyme bromelin, which improves digestive functioning.

Key nutrients: Calcium, phosphorus, iron, sodium, Vitamin C

Benefits

Pomegranate aids digestion and helps destroy worms in the intestinal tract. The seeds are rich in fiber and provide roughage.

Key nutrients: Phosphorus, potassium, sodium, calcium, iron, sucrose, Vitamins B and E.

Benefits

Watermelon is a diuretic, and can help reduce weight. It is a good source of lycopene, an anticancer substance. It is also used to treat kidney and urinary tract problems.

Top