FRUIT FACTS

We all get munchy cravings. Rather than turn to our junk food of choice (for me, that's snickers) fruit is a good substitute. It's sweet and easy to eat on the go. With the exception of avocadoes and olives, fruits are fat free.


Strawberries are high in vitamin C (more than citrus fruits, ounce for ounce), which has been shown to deter to some forms of cancer and also helps prevent bad cholesterol.


Peaches contain a good amount of potassium, plus vitamins C and A. They have diuretic and laxative properties.


In 1998, researchers at Rutgers found that cranberry juice prevents E. coli bacteria from sticking to the cells of the urinary tract, so it flushes out of the body in the urine. Many doctors recommend it, if you are prone to urinary tact infections.


During World War II, British Royal Air Force pilots consumed bilberries (a blueberry relative) to improve their night vision. Later studies show a sound basis for this practice because blueberries are high in bioflavonoids, which are used by the rods in the eye for night vision. Blueberries rank as the number one fruit provider of antioxidants. They are also high in iron.


Bananas can help cure or prevent hangovers. The main causes of hangovers are dehydration and depletion of potassium, both direct results of alcohol consumption. Bananas are an excellent source of potassium (second only to the avocado) as well as being high in magnesium, which can help relax those pounding blood vessels causing that nasty hangover headache. Bananas also contain tryptophan, the same amino acid found in turkey that makes you sleepy, as well as high amounts of vitamin C.


Apricots are high in vitamin A, even more so when dried. One serving of 3 apricots provides 45 percent of the recommended daily allowance of vitamin A. They are also high in vitamin C and potassium. One apricot averages less than 20 calories, making it a perfect sweet snack.


"An apple a day keeps the doctor away." Eating two apples per day has dropped cholesterol levels in test subject humans by up to 16 percent. Apples are also good for diabetics as the soluble fiber assists in regulating blood sugar, preventing a sudden increase or drop in serum sugar levels.


Raspberries and blackberries contain 8 grams of fiber per cup. Pears, apples, oranges, bananas, blueberries and strawberries are also high in fiber. Not as readily available in the Midwest, but still good for fiber are papaya, kiwi, guava and mango. Fiber helps you feel full, so it's a real plus for dieters.


As with most foods, prolonged cooking will leach vital nutrients from fruit.