Health enthusiasts will go on and on about the health benefits of fruits and how they are the powerhouse of many nutrients and are absolutely healthy for the mental well-being as well. But many of us are, unknowingly, losing out on a ‘lot of fruit’ than we actually know.
By ‘a lot of fruit’ we mean the peel. Yes, the outer skin that you very conveniently peel off and toss away. These peels are rich in fibre, vitamins, minerals and antioxidants. Fibre serves as food for the friendly bacteria living in your gut and helps you feel fuller for longer. Their high fibre content makes them one of the most nutritious parts of a plant. So, here is the list of fruits you must eat with their peels on.
Apple
Half the apple’s dietary fibre is present in the skin of the fruit along with vitamin A, potassium and vitamin K. Enriched with antioxidants and phytonutrients it helps in fighting against Alzheimer’s disease and other degenerative problems and decreases the risk of cancer. The vitamin K helps in cell growth, helps in the functioning of the lungs and protect your memory.
Cucumber
The refreshing cucumbers have skin which is rich in antioxidants, vitamin K, insoluble fibre and potassium. The green peel also has fewer calories and is packed with insoluble fibre that helps the digestive system. The cucumber skin also helps keep the body free of several diseases. So, remember these benefits of cucumber skin next time you are making your salad.
Mango
As much as they bring water to your mouth, mangoes are also the powerhouse of nutrients and vitamins. The skin contains properties that are similar to Resveratrol, known to burn fat. Mango peel also contains larger quantities of polyphenols, omega-3, vitamin A, iron, vitamin C, fibre, polyunsaturated fatty acids and compounds that fight off cancer, diabetes, and heart disease.
Kiwi
The peel of kiwis definitely looks anything but edible, but they have a high concentration of fibre, folate and Vitamin E.It contains more flavonoids, vitamin C, fibre and antioxidants than the fruit. High in phenolic compounds, kiwi’s skin has potential anti-cancer, anti-inflammatory and anti-allergenic properties. So, stop spooning the flesh out and grab the entire fruit.
Orange
Did you just read oranges in this list? Yes, you did. Citrus fruits and their skins are usually loaded with vitamin C. With a higher concentration of riboflavin, vitamin B6, calcium, magnesium and potassium the peels have anti-cancer and anti-inflammatory properties. Although, you cannot just bite into the bitter skin of oranges so you must grate the peel and use it in your food.
