Purple and Blue
Fight the Flu
It's too hot for chicken noodle soup. So if you need to ward off summer sniffles, try plums. "The stone fruit contains neochlorogenic and chlorogenic acids, natural compounds that have been shown to inhibit the growth of viruses and bacteria in lab tests," Bowden says.
Fresh idea: Instead of jelly, put thinly sliced plum on a peanut butter sandwich. Or puree the fruit, pour it into ice cube trays, and freeze it to use in summer drinks.
Improve Your Memory
Munch on blueberries to keep your brain nimble. They can help stave off dips in concentration, memory, and logical thinking, researchers at the University of Reading in England say. "Berries improve blood flow to the brain, which keeps cells in top shape," explains study author Jeremy Spencer, MD. "Also, they contain certain flavanoids that help us store memories better."
Fresh idea: Mix blueberries into Rice Krispies treats or add a few to maple syrup and warm on the stove for a perfect pancake topper.
Fuel Up for a Workout
Raisins are an excellent preworkout snack. Athletes who ate the dried fruit 45 minutes before an hour of exercise performed just as well as those who had a sports gel, according to San Diego State University researchers. "Raisins are a stellar source of simple sugars, which are a key source of energy," says lead researcher Mark Kern, PhD, RD, a professor of nutrition at the university.
Fresh idea: Pop a few raisins before or during a run for some get-up-and-go.ll; then season with salt. Or make kebabs with avocado chunks, grape tomatoes, and mini mozzarella balls.
-Originally published in FITNESS magazine, July/August 2010-
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