What are the best fruits for kids?
The short answer to this question is that all fruits are healthy and good to eat! Most are naturally sweet, low in calories, high in fiber, potassium and vitamin C, and loaded with disease fighting compounds!
They can make a quick and easy snack on-the-go, a sweet side dish or a simple and healthy dessert for the whole family. The key is to eat a wide variety of fruits as part of your diet because each fruit is unique and has a slightly different nutritional make-up.
Fruits come in a variety of colors, and every color contains a variety of health promoting antioxidants and/or “phytochemicals.
1. Red fruits, such as apples and strawberries, have anthocyanins and lycopene, which help maintain memory, heart health and urinary tract health, as well as reduce blood pressure, fight infections and possibly reduce the risk of some cancers.
2. Orange and yellow fruits, including apricots, mangos, and oranges, contain carotenoids and bioflavonoids. These help maintain the health of the heart, eyes and immune system, as well as slow aging and possibly reduce the risk of some cancers.
3. Blue and purple fruits, such as blueberries, blackberries, and purple grapes, contain anthocyanins, phenolics and resveratrol, which help facilitate healthier aging and enhance memory, urinary tract and cardiovascular health, may reduce the risk of some cancers. Blueberries, considered a “superfood” because of their anti-inflammatory properties, are linked to a decreased risk of heart disease and cancer.
Try to keep a variety of fruit in a rainbow of colors on hand for the most health benefits. Keep fruits in plain sight whenever possible to encourage kids to choose these healthier snacks. You can find a variety of fruits in Kids LiveWell menu items recommended by Healthy Dining’s dietitians on HealthyDiningFinder.com