Fruits are healthy and delicious snacks that most people eat on a regular basis. When we think of fruits, we often think of apples, bananas, oranges, berries and so on. We come across these fruits almost every day, and to be honest, they can get a little boring after some time. There are only so many ways to prepare and serve these fruits, and they might leave you asking for something different. Well, you’re in luck. There are plenty of exotic fruits that are now being grown in the United States. Vibrant in both color and taste, exotic fruits are great sources of vitamins A and C, potassium, fiber and countless other nutrients. ABC is here with three exotic fruits that you can try to shake up your fruit options.
You might have heard of pitaya, or dragon fruit. Some dragon fruit are hot pink while others are yellow. The exterior of dragon fruit is covered in thick leaves that give off the appearance of scales, hence the name “dragon fruit”. Beneath its scaly exterior, you’ll find white pulp with black seeds; in some rare forms of dragon fruit, you might find red pulp. While they are native to southern Mexico and Central America, dragon fruit is grown all around the world. It’s loaded with fiber and vitamin C and low in calories, making it an extra nutritious snack. Look for dragon fruit in your local supermarket (honestly, it’s pretty hard to miss).
No, mangosteens aren’t related to mangos, but this doesn’t mean they don’t have an impressive resumé of health benefits. Mangosteens are plump, round, dark purple fruits with white pulp. They have anti-cancer anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant properties, and they have also been known to keep skin healthy and boost the immune system. Sure, its rind might be difficult to open, but the rewards you’ll reap from mangosteens are well worth the trouble.
Before talking about jackfruit, I should offer you a quick word of warning. They’re huge. Like, “the world’s largest fruit” huge. Jackfruit can weigh up to 100 pounds. But, like mangosteens, they offer a ton of benefits. First, it’s important to note that jackfruit flourish in warm weather. Jackfruit is also rich in fiber, vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. Plus, vegan are increasingly using jackfruit as meat substitutes such as pulled beef, given the pulp’s stringy texture. It’s a versatile fruit that can be even be eaten in tacos and sandwiches,
Fruit doesn’t have to be as elementary as apples and bananas. Look for some of these exotic fruits next time you’re at the grocery store!
By Bess Berger
Bess Berger is a registered dietitian and started ABC Nutrition and Wellness to provide exceptional nutritional coaching tailored to each individual. Located in Teaneck, Bess has daytime and evening hours and weekend upon request. She can be reached at 201-281-0787 or [email protected].��Major insurances accepted.
