Fruits
Fruits differ from vegetables in that they come from the flowering ovary part of the plant which covers the seeds. They provide their own contribution to the body’s nutritional needs. Probably the most widely known benefit is the contribution of citrus fruits, vitamin C.
Fruits provide vitamins, carbohydrates, fiber, and minerals and are widely known for their role in preventing many chronic and infectious diseases. In addition, they do not contain cholesterol. As in all of the food groups, different fruits provide different benefits, and we need a variety of fruit types to balance our diets. Figs, citrus, rosy fruits (like apples, peaches, and pears) and berries are all part of a healthy diet.
Now, visit the fruits section of the Choose My Plate website to learn about fruits and to find answers for the following questions:
- Citrus fruits such as oranges and grapefruits
- "Rose" type fruits, such as apples and pears
- Melons and berries
Vitamin C, dietary fibers, potassium, and folic acid
- They boost the immune system.
- They lower the risk for heart disease.
- They protect against certain cancers.
