Which fruits are best for your health???

I've been on a fruit kick lately. I started to wonder what are the Top 10 Fruits that benefit our health?? I have heard so many myths like "some fruits like apples/oranges have too much sugar" or "too many fruits are bad for you" so I wanted to crack down on these myths.  Here's what I found: (in no particular order)

1. Apples (about 80 calories)

With the skin, provide pectin, 5 grams of fiber and a heaping dose of flavonoid antioxidants. Apple fiber helps lower cholesterol and keep you regular. And the powerful flavonoids reduce your risk of heart disease, stroke and cancer. 

2. Blueberries (about 81 calories/1cup)

Blueberries are rich in antioxidants, which help fight cancer and prevent macular degeneration. Like cranberries, they contain compounds that can protect against urinary tract infections.

3. Oranges (about 68 calories)

A single orange gives you almost a full day's vitamin C, plus potassium. The opaque membrane around each wedge has hesperidin, which may lower cholesterol.

4. Bananas (about 108 calories)

High in potassium and low in sodium, bananas help lower your risk of high blood pressure and stroke. Bonus: Protease inhibitors that can prevent stomach ulcers.

5. Cantaloupes (about 97 calories)

Cantaloupes are packed with Vitamin C, potassium and carotenoid antioxidants. Cantaloupe can help reduce inflammation, prevent cancer and cardiovascular disease, boost immunity and help protect your skin from sunburn. 

6. Grapes (about 60 calories)

Red wine isn't the only source of resveratrol, a powerful antioxidant that could help fight heart disease. You get nearly as much resveratrol in a cup of dark-colored grapes as you do in a five-ounce glass of merlot.

7. Strawberries (about 50 calories)

A daily handful helps control type 2 diabetes and stave off heart disease and inflammation. Strawberries are also an excellent source of vitamin C and other antioxidants.

8. Kiwis 

Ounce for ounce, kiwis contain more than twice as much vitamin C as oranges, plus they may lower the risk of cataracts and could even protect DNA from damage.

9. Apricots (about 19 calories)

They are a good source of vitamins A, C and E, potassium, iron and carotenoids. The lycopene found in apricots helps protect your eyes and prevent heart disease, LDL cholesterol oxidation and certain cancers – especially skin cancer. And the fiber in apricots helps relieve constipation. 

10. Papayas (about 55 calories)

Papayas are loaded with vitamin C, folate, carotenoids and natural digestive enzymes that help with protein digestion.

*Photo Credits and facts were all taken from here and here.