Heart Healthy Fruits

Fruits are loaded with the vitamins, minerals and fiber necessary to stay healthy. The USDA recommends five servings of fruits and vegetables per person every day to maintain optimum well-being. While most fruits are good for you, some are better to keep your heart healthy. The colors of fruit can help you determine which are the healthiest for your heart. Add this to my Recipe Box.

Think Red

Red fruits are the first choice for heart health. Fruits such as pink grapefruit and watermelon contain an antioxidant called lycopene. Anthocyanins are found in red fruits such as apples and cherries. Ellagic acid, which is found in red berries and pomegranates, is known to neutralize carcinogens. Red or purple grapes and mulberries contain the antioxidant resveratrol, which may decrease the risk of heart attack and stroke. Other red fruits to consider are strawberries, papayas and cranberries.

Go Green

The folic acid, iron, calcium, vitamin K and magnesium found in green vegetables go a long way to promoting healthy blood and reducing heart disease. When looking for green fruits, look for honeydew melons, kiwi fruit and limes.

Black and Blue and Even Purple

Black, blue and purple fruits are considered very heart healthy. Blueberries have the highest levels of antioxidants of any known fruit. When shopping for black, blue or purple fruits, look for purple figs, black currants, prunes, plums, elderberries and raisins.

Light-Colored Fruits

Light-colored fruits provide many vitamins, minerals and phytochemicals that promote a healthy heart. Light fruits include bananas, pears, dates, white peaches and white nectarines.

Ways to Add Fruit

It is not that difficult to add fruit to your diet. Have a handful of grapes with your morning coffee. Grab an apple or banana and take it to work as an afternoon snack. Treat yourself to melon, strawberries or other fruits as dessert after a good dinner. Purchase fruit when it is in season; the cost will be less and it will be fresher and better tasting. Look for local growers for everything from apples to watermelon. Be daring and try a pomegranate for the first time. Drink natural fruit juices instead of sodas or coffee.