What to eat: 5 low-calorie fruits to enjoy this summer
Hydrating fruits for summer: These low-calorie fruits not only provide hydration and refreshment but also offer numerous health benefits, from improved digestion to enhanced heart health.
Summer is synonymous with long, sunny days, beach outings, and refreshing treats. While ice creams and sugary beverages often tempt us, there's a healthier way to indulge in summer's bounty. Low-calorie fruits offer a guilt-free way to enjoy delicious, hydrating snacks. Packed with essential vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, these fruits not only quench your thirst but also support your health goals. Here are five low-calorie fruits you should relish this summer (Image: Canva)
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Watermelon: Watermelon is the quintessential summer fruit. Comprising over 90 percent water, it is incredibly hydrating, making it perfect for hot days. A typical serving of watermelon, about one cup of diced pieces, contains only around 46 calories. Despite its low calorie count, watermelon is rich in vitamins A and C, both of which are vital for skin health and immune function. Moreover, watermelon contains lycopene, an antioxidant that has been linked to heart health and reduced risk of certain cancers. Its natural sweetness can satisfy your sugar cravings without leading to calorie overload. Enjoy it sliced, cubed, or blended into a refreshing smoothie (Image: Canva)
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Strawberries: Strawberries are another delightful summer fruit that won't compromise your calorie count. One cup of halved strawberries contains approximately 49 calories. These vibrant berries are packed with vitamin C, manganese, folate, and a variety of antioxidants and polyphenols. The high fibre content in strawberries can aid digestion and help you feel full longer, which is beneficial for weight management. Additionally, the antioxidants in strawberries, including ellagic acid and quercetin, have anti-inflammatory properties and may support heart health. Add strawberries to your breakfast cereal, yoghurt, or simply enjoy them on their own for a sweet and nutritious snack (Image: Canva)
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Peaches: Peaches are synonymous with summer and are surprisingly low in calories. A medium-sized peach has around 59 calories. They are a good source of vitamins A and C, which are important for maintaining healthy skin and vision. Peaches also provide fibre, potassium, and antioxidants, contributing to overall health and wellness. Their juicy, sweet flavour makes them an excellent addition to fruit salads, desserts, or even savoury dishes like grilled peach salad. The fibre content in peaches can help keep you feeling satisfied, making them a perfect option for those mindful of their caloric intake (Image: Canva)
Raspberries: Raspberries are a nutritional powerhouse with just 64 calories per cup. These small berries are loaded with dietary fibre, vitamins C and K, and manganese. The fibre content in raspberries is particularly notable, with one cup providing around 8 grams, which can support digestive health and help regulate blood sugar levels. Raspberries are also rich in antioxidants, such as quercetin and ellagic acid, which may have anti-inflammatory and anti-cancer properties. Their tangy-sweet flavour makes them versatile for various dishes. Enjoy them fresh, add them to smoothies, or use them as a topping for oatmeal and yoghurt (Image: Canva)
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Blackberries: Blackberries are another excellent choice for a low-calorie summer treat. One cup of raw blackberries has approximately 62 calories. They are an exceptional source of vitamins C and K, fibre, and antioxidants. The high fibre content in blackberries can aid in digestion and promote feelings of fullness, which is beneficial for weight control. Blackberries also contain anthocyanins, which are pigments with powerful antioxidant effects. These compounds can help reduce inflammation and support heart health. Enjoy blackberries fresh, in smoothies, or as part of a healthy dessert like a fruit salad or a yoghurt parfait (Image: Canva)
Sushmita Srivastav An independent journalist and editor, Sushmita writes on diverse topics, ranging from travel, food, fitness and health, to luxury, culture, and everything in between.
