Nutrition experts introduce the 6 kinds of fruits you need to eat this summer

Did you know that certain fruits can help your body feel better, especially in the summer when the body struggles to maintain an optimal temperature without becoming dehydrated? Nutritionist Sherry Gray tells Verywell Health that there are a lot of summer fruits that can help keep your heart healthy and hydrated.

Gray’s heart-healthy seasonal fruits and vegetables include tomatoes, strawberries, blueberries, peaches, apricots and watermelon.

tomato

This summer fruit can do just about everything: reduce the risk of heart disease, help the immune system function, reduce the risk of type 2 diabetes, etc. Rich in beta-carotene and lycopene, this fruit may also reduce the risk of certain types of cancer, as these pigments are believed to have anti-cancer properties.

strawberry

Rich in fiber and water, strawberries are an ideal summer fruit as they are hydrating and filling. Although they are sweet, strawberries are lower in sugar than many other fruits, which means they can be eaten by diabetics who need to monitor their blood sugar levels.

These bright red fruits are also high in vitamin C, manganese, potassium, and folate. Nutritionist Melissa Ann Prest explains to Verywell Health that strawberries can help fight free radicals that can damage your heart.

cranberry

These little fruits are rich in anthocyanin pigments, which are water-soluble pigments that are responsible for the blue, red, and purple colors of fruits and vegetables. According to the National Institutes of Health, these special pigments have antimicrobial and antioxidant properties that may help improve neurological function and protect against disease.

When it comes to heart health, blueberries are rich in fiber and vitamin K.

peach

Peaches are high in fiber, vitamin C, vitamin A, and potassium, which can help lower cholesterol and blood pressure. They also contain beta-carotene, which is good for your eyes, plus polyphenols and probiotics, which can help fight inflammation and reduce the risk of chronic disease, according to the Cleveland Clinic.

Apricots

Apricots are also rich in antioxidants and potassium; according to Healthline, which can support gut, eye, and skin health.

watermelon

Although watermelon is 92 percent water, it still contains many key nutrients and minerals. This fruit is rich in potassium, lycopene, and fiber. Lycopene in particular may improve blood pressure and help prevent certain heart diseases, according to Verywell Health.