Vitamins in Fruits

From LoveToKnow Vegetarian

There are many vitamins in fruits and vegetables, and these foods play an important part in a well balanced and varied diet.

Fruit contains many vitamins

Vitamins and minerals are crucial to a healthy diet. These are nutrients that are found naturally in the food that we eat. Our bodies need these nutrients to work properly and for good health. The correct amount and mix of vitamins is an essential requirement for life. There are many vitamins in fruits and this makes fruit and vegetables an important part of a well balanced diet.

Types of Vitamins in Fruits

Here are some of the common vitamins that are found in fruits:

  • Vitamin C – this is probably one of the most well known vitamins. We need vitamin C for general health and to support the immune system. Vitamin C also helps the body to absorb iron. Vitamin C is present in many fruits including oranges, lemons, grapefruit and tangerines, kiwi fruit, blackcurrants, mangoes, strawberries, blackberries and raspberries. It is also present in vegetables such as tomatoes.
  • Vitamin A – this is essential for healthy eyes. Vitamin A is present in orange colored fruit and vegetables such as carrots, mangoes, apricots and peaches.
  • Vitamin K – although green vegetables are the best source for vitamin K, it is also found in pumpkin. Vitamin K is used by the body to help with blood clotting. It is also used to strengthen bones.
  • Vitamin B – this is used by the body to support the metabolism system. It is also used to help the immune system and maintain healthy muscles. Many fruits contain some of the B group of vitamins. These include vitamin B 1, 2 and 6.

Vitamins Not Contained in Fruit

Vitamin D and vitamin B12 are not contained in fruits, and must be obtained elsewhere. The body can make vitamin D from sunlight, so most vegans and vegetarians can get enough from sun exposure. Vitamin B12 is found in eggs, but vegetarians and vegans may benefit from some supplementation of vitamin b12. Please consult a nutritionist for more information or for the right amount to take.

Preparing Fruit to Maximize the Benefit from Vitamins

There is no doubt that the best way to maximize the benefit from the vitamins found in fruit is to eat the fruit raw. Great ways to eat fruits in order to maximize the nutritional benefits includes fresh fruit salads, smoothies and enjoying fresh fruit with cereal or yogurt.

Five a Day

The campaign to encourage us to eat five portions of fruit and vegetables a day is to help people focus on eating a well balanced diet. Five portions of fruit and vegetables may sound like a lot, however many vegans and vegetarians will consume this easily. By eating a range of different fruit and vegetables many different nutrients are consumed and this helps to ensure a healthy body.


There are many vitamins in fruits and this can be a tasty and satisfying way to consume a well balanced diet.



 


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