Admin
November 19, 2021

The food we eat directly affects our bodies, making up 80% of physical health. Left unchecked, an unhealthy diet can cause different complications, such as obesity, heart disease and other medical diseases. To avoid this, doctors recommend a balanced diet, including whole food like fruits.

 

While the year-round variety of fruits in the market are often tempting, it’s best to consider buying what’s in season because:

 

1. It’s better for the planet.

 

Choosing seasonal fruit is more environment-friendly compared to buying fresh but off-season imported fruit. This lessens the resources required for transporting produce from distant areas, therefore reducing the carbon footprint.

 

2. It helps the community

 

Buying locally sourced fruit from farmers’ markets and farming cooperatives in your area helps stimulate the economy and help our farmers grow in their livelihood.

 

3. Seasonal fruits are cheaper.

 

Because locally sourced, seasonal fruits require fewer resources for harvesting, storage, and transport, you’ll save a few pesos from your market and/or grocery bill.

 

4. They taste better!

 

Have you ever noticed how some fruits taste better in the summer or during the rainy season? That’s because they might be at full ripeness during those times of the year! Fruits (and even vegetables) taste best when harvested in season, making your experience much more enjoyable.

Here is a Philippine fruit calendar guide and each fruit’s nutritional benefits to help you plan a healthy and nutritious diet for the entire year:

Fruits Available in January to March

 

1. Chico – A small sweet tasting fruit. Chicos are an excellent source of antioxidants and are rich in iron, calcium, and potassium.

2. Mandarin Orange – They are a significant source of Vitamins A, B and have a high level of Vitamin C.

3. Caimito – Known as “Star Apple”, Caimito helps in maintaining a good digestive system by preventing abdominal pain, constipation and bloating. It is also fibrous and has a good amount of phosphorus.

 

Fruits Available in April to June

 

1. Duhat – Widely known as medicine for diabetes and can help in aiding digestion disorders such as stomach problems and diarrhea.

2. Mango – Known as a summer fruit, mangoes are a substantial source of fiber, antioxidants and Vitamin C. It also supports a healthy immune system and can also fight chronic and inflammatory diseases.

3. Melon – Melons are an excellent source of dietary fiber, vitamin K, potassium, and vitamins C & B.

4. Watermelon – High in water content, watermelons help to keep your body hydrated. They are also packed with nutrients like vitamins A, C, and antioxidants.

5. Pineapple – Apart from it being rich in Vitamin C, pineapples are also good in aiding digestion and promote healthy bones.

 

Fruits Available in July to September

 

1. Durian – A unique tropical fruit, Durian is high in nutrients and antioxidants. It can help reduce cancer risk and prevent heart diseases.

2. Lanzones – Rich in fiber, Lanzones can cure diarrhea and other digestive problems. It also contains Vitamin A and is good for maintaining a healthy eyesight.

3. Rambutan – Full of potassium, Rambutan helps in keeping your heart, kidneys and muscles healthy. It is also an excellent source of Vitamin C and other antioxidants.

4. Santol – Often used medicinally in Southeast Asia, Santol helps in reducing bad cholesterol as well as preventing diabetes and cancer diseases.

 

Fruits Available in October to December

 

1. Atis – Atis fruit is a wonderful source of calcium, phosphorus, and fiber, and helps in controlling blood pressure and regulating sugar in the body.

2. Guyabano – High in Vitamin C, Guyabano helps in strengthening your immune system. It also promotes healthy digestion and prevents constipation.

 

Fruits Available Throughout the Year

 

1. Banana – A superb source of potassium. Bananas are good for your heart health and blood pressure. It can also help aid digestion and can give you good energy minus the fat and bad cholesterol.

2. Papaya – Papaya helps boost your immune system and aids in lowering blood sugar. It contains high antioxidants such as Vitamins A, C and E, which can reduce the risk of heart diseases.

3. Pomelo – Pomelos are full of fiber and rich in antioxidants like Vitamin C. It also helps in preventing cancer by fighting cancerous cells by boosting your immune system.

 

Whatever fruit is in season, always remember to include fruits in your family’s diet to prevent diseases and maintain a healthy body! Happy and healthy eating!

 

 

References:

 

creativehealthyfamily.com, orlandohealth.com, healthline.com, webmd.com, hellodoctor.com, healthbenefitstimes.com, medindia.com, healthxchange.sg, rxlist.com, everydayhealth.com, healthiersteps.com, panlasangpinoy.com, sandjmandarins.com, eufic.org, mindbodygreen.com

 

Image sources: Freepik/lifeforstock, Freepik/KamranAydinov, Freepik/4045