Easy Eats - May/June 2012

Nature’s Pharmacy
The season’s produce isn’t just delicious —
experts believe it can make you feel better, too.

Cantaloupe

Sometimes called muskmelon, it’s an excellent source of B complex vitamins and fiber, which support metabolism and blood sugar stability.

Cherries Studies have linked the immune system-boosting antioxidants and other nutrients in this superfruit to reducing the pain of arthritis and gout.

Corn

A sure sign of summer, this cookout fave packs almost

5 grams of fiber per cup — great for supporting a healthy digestive track.

Garlic

It’s good for more than repelling vampires. Garlic provides vitamin B6, which can help lower cholesterol levels and reduce plaque buildup.

Honeydew

The sweetest of melons is rich in vitamin C and folic acid. Plus, the high water content will help keep you hydrated.

Nectarines The electrolyte sodium contained in the early summer stone fruit aids in maintaining your water level balance on a hot day.

Sorrel

Toss this leafy green into soup or sauce to add color, tanginess and extra vitamin A and C. An adult serving is about 10 leaves.

Key Limes Smaller, seedier and more sour than regular limes, one of these contains 32 percent of your daily vitamin C.

Okra

This nutritional powerhouse offers high levels of vitamin C, an antioxidant and anti-inflammatory, which can help lessen asthma symptoms.

Strawberries

With more vitamin C per serving than oranges, these sweet standbys may be helpful in lowering the risk of gastrointestinal cancers.

Lima Beans A quarter-cup serving delivers 10 grams each of protein and fiber, which will fill you up and keep you going.

Raspberries Vitamins C, A, B complex, K and essential minerals are all present in these beloved berries, aiding in digestion and boosting immunity.

Tomatillos One cup of the Tex-Mex staple contains 15 percent of the suggested daily intake of vitamin A, which promotes skin, teeth and eye health.

Lychee

In addition to vitamin C, the native Asian fruit is a good source of copper, important for red blood cell production.

Sapodilla This fruit looks kind of like a potato and is rich in dietary fiber and tannins, which may be useful in preventing gastrointestinal problems.