Fruits

Definition

Fruits are the sweet or savory fleshy product of a plant that contains seeds and can be eaten as food. They are an essential component of a healthy diet, providing vitamins, minerals, and fiber.

Scientific / Technical Definition

Botanically, a fruit is the mature ovary of a flowering plant, usually containing seeds. These organs develop from the fertilized ovule after flowering and are a means by which plants disseminate seeds. Fruits are a diverse group of foods rich in essential nutrients, including vitamins such as vitamin C, minerals, dietary fiber, and antioxidants.

Benefits

• Rich source of essential vitamins and minerals.
• High in dietary fiber, which aids digestive health.
• Contain antioxidants that help in reducing inflammation.
• May help reduce the risk of chronic diseases such as heart disease, cancer, and diabetes.
• Support skin health and immune function.

Examples

• Apples
• Bananas
• Berries
• Citrus fruits like oranges and lemons
• Grapes

Additional Information

• Effects: Fruits help in maintaining a healthy gut due to their fiber content, support heart health by reducing blood pressure and cholesterol levels, and promote overall well-being through their nutrient density.

Related Terms

• Vegetables
• Dietary Fiber
• Antioxidants
• Vitamins
• Phytonutrients

References

• Fruit and vegetable consumption and mortality from all causes, cardiovascular disease, and cancer: systematic review and dose-response meta-analysis of prospective cohort studies
• Health benefits of fruit and vegetables