List of Common Nigerian Fruits and Their Benefits.
Let us talk about the types of Nigerian fruits and their benefits today.
But first:
When is the best time to take fruits?
1. On an empty stomach or the first meal of the day
2. 1 hour before meals. It is never good to eat fruit at the same time with food. The digestion process and rate of both are not the same . One can begin to slow the digestion of the other which can lead to indigestion. It is either one or the other. There should be a time difference
3. 2 hours after meals
4. Early evening and never close to bed time.This is to allow your fruit digest before you sleep
Different types of fruits and what they do
1.Anti-inflammatory fruits
An example of this is pineapple, cherry. They contain enzymes that reduces inflammation of the gut, they boost the immune function and they stimulates protein digestion
2. Immune boosting fruits
Citrus fruits are the highest sources especially because they are high in Vitamin C of these. e.g grape fruit, straw berry, orange, lemon, lime, kiwi. Grape fruit is the highest source of Vitamin C. They help boost immune system.
They help fight off sickness. They are rich in both Vitamin C and Vitamin A. Straw berry seeds contains minerals that supports immune function.
3. Antioxidants fruit.
A good example is red grape,orange. Bells pepper is another very rich source of antioxidants. They help fight diseases and combat signs of ageing. Grape is very good for the eyes and keeps it strong. They minimise the harmful effects of ultraviolet rays
4. Detoxifying fruits.
Examples includes watermelon, lemon.
Watermelon contains Vitamin A and C which helps in detoxifying the body and fighting free radicals in the body . Lemon and lime are very strong detoxifiers. They have antibacterial and antiviral qualities. You can drink lemon in warm water first thing in the morning to help cleanse you system and keep your digestive system going.
5. Beauty fruit- E.g Pawpaw
Pawpaw is full of antioxidants and nutrients that help in the production of collagen which contains an enzyme called ‘papin’ they helps to counter skin damage. Most skin toning creams contains ‘papaya’ which is Pawpaw. It will glow your skin alot…. I mean alot
6. Energy fruits- Examples includes Banana, avocado, apple. They help to fuel and charge up the body. They give a boost and sudden surge in energy and help alot before and after workouts. Banana provides quick energy. Apples are very high in fibre, it will keep you full for a long time and it aids digestion.
Most healthy fruits in Nigeria
1. Grape fruit
2. Pineapple
3. Avocado
4. Apples
5. Mangoes
6. Strawberries
7. Lemons
8. Watermelon
9. Orange
10. Banana
11. Guava
12. Pawpaw
13. Cherries
14. Pineapple
15. Cucumber
16. Cabbage
There are other Healthy fruits
1. Coconut
2. Tangerines
3. Peach
4. Soursop
5. Tiger nuts
6. Pear
7.Cashew
8. carrots etc
If you eat fruits alot, your body will show it, your skin will reflect it, your eyes will see it and your intestines will appreciate it. Eat fruits more and ensure everyday, you eat atleast one of aforementioned daily.
Author: Susan Dare
