In the Philippines, there are plenty of fruits you can choose from that can provide you with health and nutritional benefits. Anonas, strawberry, ripe papaya, cashew, datiles, atis, guwayabano, ripe mango, melon, guavas siniguelas, and naranghita are examples of fruits.
Fruits are regulatory foods that contain vitamins and minerals that protect the eyesight, keep skin smooth and clean, and prevent the occurrence of some bleeding gums and easily bruised skin.
They increase body resistance against infection and common illnesses like colds and are also good sources of fiber that help prevent constipation common during pregnancy.
Most of all, they are packed with antioxidants that help prevent cancer.
The recent survey of the Food and Nutrition Research Institute of the Department of Science and Technology (FNRI-DOST) showed that fruit intake of Filipinos remained unchanged from 2003 to 2008 at 54 grams per person per day.
The older persons and pregnant women consumed more fruits than other population groups.
Including fruits in your daily meals assures you of getting the recommended intake for vitamins and minerals.
The Daily Nutritional Guide Pyramid provides Filipinos an eating plan for a healthy living.
Based on the pyramid, the FNRI-DOST suggests eating two to three servings of fruits everyday to fight infections.
One serving of fruit is equivalent to one medium-sized fruit or one slice of a big fruit.
So stay healthy and fit with fruits in season on your table.
For more information on food and nutrition, contact Dr. Mario V. Capanzana, Director, FNRI-DOST, DOST Compound, General Santos Avenue, Bicutan, Taguig City. Direct Lines and Fax: (02) 837-2934 & 8373164; Trunklines: 837-2071 locals 2296 & 2284, 837-8113, locals 318 & 319; Website: www.fnri.dost.gov.ph; E-mail: mvc@fnri.dost.gov.ph, mar_v_c@yahoo.com. (FNRI-DOST/Mig Glorioso)
