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Dried fruit
DRIED FRUIT, NUTS & SEEDS =
naturally sweet, calcium & selenium, healthy snack, iron & zinc, vitamin E & folic acid, nutritious and filling, dietary fibre, magnesium & potassium
The word fruit comes from the Latin "efruii", which means to enjoy
Fruit, vegetables, nuts, seeds, beans, wholegrains, and other ingredients should be eaten regularly, not just because they taste good, but each of them can play a fundamental role in helping to avoid and overcome a variety of illnesses. Even the most commonplace ingredient is a pharmaceutical factory, manufacturing and storing hundreds of different substances known as phyto(plant) chemicals. The mix of vitamins, minerals and phytochemicals, found naturally in foods, contribute to the body's natural defences against damage and disease.
A seed is the reproductive structure of a plant and consists of an embryo and a food store. The function of fruit is to protect the seeds. There are two main types, temperate zone fruits and tropical fruits. Wild fruits, such as cranberries and blueberries, are thought of as modern fruits. Nuts are single-seeded dry fruits. The edible portion is the embryo, which contains the nutrients for nourishing young seedlings.
Nuts are high in fibre and a good source of protein, minerals and vitamins. Brazil nuts, for example, contain high amounts of selenium, which triggers a major protective cancer-fighting enzyme in the body. They contain essential fatty acids, which the body needs for good health, and monosaturated fat, which helps to lower cholesterol. However, nuts are still high in fat, so it is best not eat too many, and avoid salted ones. If one has a family history of nut allergies, they should avoid nuts during pregnancy, and not give them to children in their early years. It is important to remember that nut allergies can be potentially fatal.
Like nuts, seeds are high in protein, fibre, minerals and vitamins. They make a healthy snack, and add extra texture and flavour to breads, salads, casseroles and breakfast cereals. They can also be eaten raw, or dry roasted.