My favourite season and yours, the winter season, is finally here! And you know what that means? Winter fruits are here too! Aren’t we all desperately waiting for some of our favourite seasonal fruits like oranges in winter and mangoes in summer? There’s a unique thrill in waiting all summer just to savour the taste of a favourite winter fruit. However, the wait is over now.
Winter fruits have started popping into markets. This blog is here to guide you on which winter fruits are good for your health and how they are going to contribute to your health. Nowadays because of the technology and advancement, most of the fruits are available throughout the year, which makes it hard to tell if a fruit is truly in season or not. But for those who want to stay healthy, seasonal fruits are a priority.
Why Seasonal Fruits?
Seasonal fruits are fresh, without any preservatives or chemicals. Those fruits that are available whole year are added with some preservatives to increase their shelf life. Also, each fruit plant has certain climate conditions required to be grown naturally. If it is grown the other way around, then it should be treated with chemicals. That is why, to stay away from preservatives and chemicals, people opt for seasonal fruit. Another reason is to enjoy the flavour. Generally, seasonal fruits are picked when they are fully ripened which provides its peak taste along with health benefits.
Winter Fruits in India
1. Orange
These tangy orange-coloured little balls are sunshine in winter. Oranges are rich in Vitamin C, which is very crucial for the immune system. Many of us catch a cold in winter often as we have weak immunity systems. In such cases, oranges are the heroes to make you a superhero so, that you can fight any disease. Additionally, oranges have anti-oxidants that help in protecting our bodies from free radicals as they can damage our cells. You can call them ‘trouble-makers’ as well. Despite this, oranges keep us hydrated and help in collagen production to keep our skin glowing during harsh winter days.
2. Grapefruit
There are multiple reasons why you should grab a grapefruit or two when you see them at the store. Grapefruits are also rich in Vitamin C and antioxidants. Along with this, they are low in calories, eventually providing you with a healthy food on your list in case you want to lose weight. Moreover, grapefruits are rich in fibre – making them ideal for helping in digestion. They are helpful in detoxification as well. The deliciousness and versatility make it a fit for the season.
3. Kiwis
One more winter wellness buddy of yours is Kiwi! These are packed with nutrients and are delicious. Kiwis have more Vitamin C than oranges. One kiwi a day can fulfil more than your daily requirement. So, with kiwi in your diet, you can expect winters without coughs and colds. Further, kiwis have antioxidants that protect cells from getting damaged., serotonin which supports sleep and magnesium which is known for making your mind relax. Kiwis are hydrating which can make you glow this winter season more brighter than ever.
4. Apples
The saying “An apple a day keeps the doctor away” is one of the truest statements, as the benefits are so numerous they’re almost too many to count. Apples are a good source of vitamin C, full of antioxidants, high in fibre, and low in calories—a wholesome fruit. They support heart health as the soluble fibre helps reduce bad cholesterol, boost immunity, aid digestion, provide hydration, and help maintain healthy blood pressure. Is there anything apples can’t do? They are truly nature’s most nourishing fruit to support your health.
5. Pomegranates
Blood cell production is the biggest reason for the popularity of pomegranates as they are a rich source of iron. However, they are more than that. Pomegranates are rich in antioxidants like polyphenols which support maintaining good heart health by improving blood flow along with reducing inflammation. Pomegranates are also known for working as anti-aging because of their anti-oxidant presence which prevents wrinkles. This winter season give your skin a little extra love by incorporating pomegranates in your diet.
6. Tangerines
Tangerines might confuse many of you as they look similar to oranges but they are different. The basic method to differentiate between them is size. Tangerines are smaller in size than oranges. Also, tangerines are a little sweeter and less acidic than oranges. Tangerines are as rich in Vitamin C as oranges but tangerines have slightly higher immunity booster power. Tangerines contain more fibre which means they are good for the digestion system as well. Despite all the differences and similarities, both oranges and tangerines are worthy to include in your daily diet.
7. Lemons
It might be confusing, like, why lemons are on the list of winter fruits. Winter is acceptable but fruits? Not possible! But to your amazement, I am not wrong. Lemon is a winter fruit. Even though lemons are always in markets irrespective of season. Lemon is known for charging up your sluggish day. The reason for this is the natural citrus acid can stimulate the production of bile in the liver, which further helps in absorption and digestion. That is why many people start their days with lemon to give a kickstart to the digestive system. Lemons are helpful for weight management as they are low in calories. The high citric acid content of lemon also prevents the formation of kidney stones. Lemons have multiple benefits. So, whether you will be squeezing lemons into your meals or drinking warm lemon water, don’t worry, you will be doing the best thing for your health.
8. Dates
Dates are natural sugars like glucose, fructose, and sucrose, which provide a quick and sustained energy boost during lazy winter days. Dates work like magic to your digestion as they are rich in fibre. These are best for immunity. So, whenever you are looking for something to satisfy your sweet tooth but healthy then feel free to grab dates.
Conclusion
You might have noticed that most of the winter fruits boost your energy and immunity, and keep you warm and healthy. That is how winter fruits are special. So, enjoy every day of the season by enjoying the bliss of different winter fruits.