The Skinny:
June is National Fruits & Vegetable month; in case anyone had missed the notice. This kind of heading takes in a lot of healthy stuff. After all, there are about 2,000 fruits worldwide and 1,100 vegetables. It is hard to honor everything or identify the most nutritious among them. WellWell has pointed out the five most popular in each group, just in case anyone is wondering. Enjoy and read on.
The Slate:
Fruits
Bananas
Bananas are the top fruit because of their cost. The current inflation wave aside, they sell for about 60 cents a pound, and Americans gobble over 27 pounds per capita annually. They are tasty and healthy, helping lower blood pressure and support strong bones.
Strawberries
It seems like about every household in America munches strawberries. Americans consume almost five pounds of either fresh or frozen berries every year. That’s good as they have lots of vitamins, fiber and antioxidants. They also don’t have sodium, fat or cholesterol and don’t have a lot of calories.
Grapes
More people are eating grapes than ever, which has helped them recently move into the third position among popular fruits—okay, tied with apples for this place. Called the Queen of Fruits by some, grapes may help fight cancer, heart disease, high blood pressure and constipation.
Apples
Apples have always been popular in the U.S. The bushels and bushels of different varieties mean there is one for every taste. While they may not keep the doctor away, apples support healthy lifestyles.
Watermelon
Watermelon and Americans have grown increasingly fond of each other in the last 20 years, making this fruit the fifth most popular in the country. This seasonal fruit is light and refreshing and eaten in many ways. It is also a fun food. Not only that, but watermelon is an exceptionally healthy fruit. It contains citrulline and lycopene, which may lower blood pressure, improve metabolic health and lessen muscle soreness after working out.
Vegetables
Potatoes
Is it any surprise that the spud is America’s favorite vegetable? More than three-quarters of Americans report eating potatoes at least once a week, which helped push per capita consumption close to 30 pounds in 2021. Potatoes contain fiber, potassium, and vitamins C and B6.
Tomatoes
George Washington may have avoided tomatoes, but Americans still love them. Tomatoes are the second most popular vegetable, even though tomatoes are technically a fruit. They are high in fiber and a good source of vitamins A, C and B2.
Onions
Onions are diverse, tasty raw or cooked, which helps place them third on the popularity chart. In the last 50 years, there has been a 100 percent increase in per capita consumption of onions in America. Along with their other qualities, they help fight food-borne illnesses.
Carrots
Fresh carrots have also found a home in American kitchens in the last century as per capita consumption has risen from about two pounds to eight pounds. Of course, they have lots of health benefits. They are sources of beta carotene, fiber, vitamin K1, potassium and antioxidants; and are also great for people on a diet.
Bell Peppers
Surprisingly, bell peppers come in as the fifth most popular vegetable. Chefs love them, and they are also incredibly healthy. They can help with hydration and contain the likes of vitamin C, vitamin A and potassium—all good things.
Eyes Up:
What is your favorite fruit or vegetable that didn’t make the top five? Let us know at info@wellwellusa.com.
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