Malta is blessed with a warm climate and lots of sunshine. Despite its relatively small size, lots of fruit and vegetables are grown locally. In summer, fruit is in abundance, and there is no excuse for not eating fruit and taking advantage of the unique health benefits fresh summer fruit offers. Fruits contain the main source of vitamin, minerals, fibre and other nutrients our body needs. It should be consumed all the year round, not just in summer, as fruits improve digestion and prevent health-related problems.
Fresh Maltese fruits
Although today fruit is imported from around the world, Maltese produce is fresher and inexpensive. Fruits like mango, pineapple, and bananas are imported, while grapes, strawberries, peaches, oranges, lemons, melon, and watermelon are all grown locally and present the best health benefits, and taste great too.
Health benefits of grapes
Grapes are freely available in Malta during the summer. Grapes are antioxidant and high in potassium. Grapes are good for the knees, and improve your cholesterol, heart rate, blood pressure and can even boost your brain. They can also be useful for against viral infections, prevent eye degeneration, and are helpful in diabetes. Grapes are good for indigestion, help to relieve asthma and migraine. It is also active in fighting against breast cancer. Red and white grapes have slightly different health benefits; however, both varieties contribute to a healthier diet and improves wellbeing.
Melon and watermelon keep you from getting dehydrated
In summer, the heat makes us sweat more, and we can get dehydrated. Melon and watermelon are summer staples in Malta and contain about 90% of water. Watermelon contains high levels of vitamin A, and B6, lycopene, amino acids, potassium, fibre, and cancer prevention agents. It can help prevent macular degeneration, kidney disorders, and help you to avoid heat stroke. It also regulates your blood pressure, has anti-inflammatory properties, and improves heart health. So next time you think about melons and watermelons, remember how beneficial they are for our health.
Oranges and lemons, the bells of St Clemens!
The above phrase is taken from an English verse and glorify their virtues. Orange and lemons possess many health benefits and are favourite fruits in Malta and around the world. They can be used as snacks, or blended with other ingredients in a variety of dishes and fruit drinks. Orange juice is a vital component of a wholesome breakfast, helping you start the day healthy. Benefits include a substantial source of vitamin c, an improved immune system, prevention of skin damage, and lower cholesterol. Besides, it helps to keep your blood pressure under control, Improves eyesight, and lowers the risk of cancer.
Strawberries without cream!
In England, it is customary to eat strawberries with fresh cream, however, in Malta, fresh cream is a rarity. The health benefits of eating strawberries without cream are many. The fruit is rich in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. Nutrients include potassium, vitamin C, folate, manganese, dietary fibre, and magnesium. Strawberries can also help you to prevent weight loss, reduces hypertension and avoid birth defects. Eating strawberries can prevent hair loss, improve vision, and fight inflammation.
Best of the rest
Besides locally grown fruits, today you can buy almost any kind of fruit from bananas to kiwis, pineapple to blueberries and cherries. They all have significant health benefits if consumed in moderation. Summer is the time to eat a lot of fruit to replace lost fluids. The vitamins and nutrients they provide are invaluable, and they taste sweet and fresh. Many other fruits offer health benefits, such as peaches and pears, while tomatoes are considered a fruit as well. Whatever your fresh fruit fancy, indulge in a healthy and wholesome lifestyle this summer by eating all the fruit you want, safe in the knowledge that you are getting healthier and fitter.