Picture of fruits and vegetables sitting in baskets and bowls and also laid out on a wooden table.

Summer Fruits & Vegetables | Anaheim Medical Center

Posted on 07/31/2017 by AHMC Anaheim Regional Medical Center

Try These Fruits and Veggies to Boost Your Health This Summer

Did you know a change in the weather should also reflect a change in diet? Our bodies require different nutrients throughout different seasons in order to compensate for changes in weather, time of year, and other environmental factors. During the summer months, it's important to up your intake of vitamins and minerals to combat dehydration, and to fuel your body with foods that protect your skin from the harsh sunlight. Learn more about what fruits and vegetables can help you stay healthy this summer, and why.

Berries

Raspberries, blueberries, strawberries, and blackberries are among the most popular and nutritious summer fruits. These little morsels can be a great source of fiber and contain a high amount of vitamin C. Blueberries also contain strong antioxidant properties and can help combat muscle fatigue after a long day of playing in the sun. Most berries, strawberries in particular, also contain called flavonoids which not only help the body fight disease, but also improve skin structure and texture by increasing blood flow.

Tomatoes

Best picked between June and October, tomatoes can help lower cholesterol and also contain strong antioxidant properties to help prevent cancer. Though often mistaken for vegetables, tomatoes belong to the fruit family, and as such can be a strong source of vitamin C.

Watermelon

A popular summer pool-side treat, watermelon can be a delicious and refreshing seasonal treat. Watermelon is 92% water, so eating a slice can be a more enjoyable way to stay hydrated, and can work wonders for finicky kids, too. Eating your water through fruits high in water content can help you stay hydrated, keeping your mind sharp and healthy. It also contains vitamins A, C, and B-6, and healthy minerals like potassium and manganese.

Corn

Corn contains two key antioxidants, lutein and zeaxanthin, which help to protect the eyes from the damaging sun rays so noticeable on bring summer days. These antioxidants form macular pigments that filter harmful rays from the eyes, and can also lower your risk of age-related eye degeneration which can eventually result in blindness. In addition to providing ocular protection, the B1 in corn also helps cognitive function, while the antioxidant beta-kryptoxanthin, can help reduce the risk of developing lung cancer. This summer vegetable, popular as a grilled side-dish, is also rich in potassium, magnesium, iron, and vitamin B-6.

Summer Squash

Summer squash, like zucchini, contain pectin, which supplies a great sources of fiber, lowers cholesterol, and promotes heart health. They are also an excellent source of vitamin C, and contain healthy omega-3 fatty acids, which help prevent heart disease. In season May through September, these summer veggies also contain beta carotene and lutein to help protect the body from harmful pollutants and also promote eye health.

Cucumbers

Ideal as a cool, refreshing ingredient in salads or side dishes, cucumbers are good for more than just brightening up a plate. Cucumbers are a good source of fiber, potassium, and magnesium, and are also packed with water to help you stay hydrated. They also contain silica, which can help improve the health and texture of your skin.

To learn more about heart health, lowering your cholesterol, or addressing any other health issues mentioned above, contact Anaheim Regional Medical Center. Our trained staff of medical professionals are equipped to answer your questions and are eager to direct you toward a healthy path, today.

This article contains general information about medical conditions and treatments. The information is not advice and should not be treated as such. The information is not intended to replace the advice or diagnosis of a physician. If you have any specific questions about any medical matter you should consult your doctor or other professional healthcare providers.