Winter brings cold weather and darker days, so it is important to maintain a balanced diet to support your immune system. Incorporating fruit and vegetables is one of the key ways to do this and stay consistent with eating the recommended 5 a day. ONS research currently states:
“We also found that less than half of adults reported eating five portions of fruit or vegetables every day (13%) or most days (35%), while over half said they had done this some days (40%) or never (13%).”
Fruit is packed with essential vitamins and minerals that help our bodies function the way they should, which is especially important in Winter. Let’s explore the best Winter fruits to keep you healthy!
Benefits of Eating Fruit in Winter
There are key benefits to eating fruit year-round, however, in Winter it can help:
- Your immune system and fighting off infections: essential vitamins such as vitamins A & C contribute to boosting your immune system.
- Healthy skin: These vitamins and minerals also support your skin barrier to help with the effects of harsh weather in Winter.
- Contribute to your overall lifestyle: maintaining a healthy lifestyle and diet can aid health long-term too by reducing the risk of serious health implications such as a heart attack, stroke, or cancer.
- Maintain energy levels: Winter can be detrimental to energy levels and productivity, so eating fruit (a natural carbohydrate/sugar source) can give you the boost you need.
- Weight Management: Winter can often lead us to want to eat more dense foods, whereas fruit can keep you feeling fuller for longer.
- Keep hydrated: The increased use of indoor heating can make your body more dehydrated. Fruit can help you maintain hydration levels alongside your usual water intake.
- Increased Mental Health Symptoms in Winter: Winter can often make people feel low or experience Seasonal affective disorder (SAD). The fruit’s anti-inflammatory benefits can help your body reduce stress and help ease mental health impacts.
Best Fruits To Eat In Winter
We have rounded up some of the best fruits to eat throughout the Winter months, whether it’s for their nutritional value but also flavourful to enjoy. Many of these fruits can be versatile, meaning you can get creative with your dishes and try out some delicious recipes!
- Oranges
Citrus fruits are rich in vitamin C, which aids the immune system and helps protect against Winter colds and flu.
- Pomegranates
Known for their antioxidant properties, pomegranates help reduce inflammation and promote good heart health.
- Apples
Apples are available all year round but gain popularity in Winter too because they are a good source of fibre and vitamins, supporting digestion and overall health. There are many different ranges and subtle taste changes to appeal to a wide range of preferences.
- Pears
Sweet tasting, and rich in vitamin C, antioxidants and dietary fibre, pears help maintain your digestive health.
- Kiwis
Kiwis come into season in the Winter and are also filled with vitamin C and fibre, making them an excellent choice for immune support and digestion during these months.
- Grapefruits
Like other citrus fruits, grapefruits are high in vitamin C and antioxidants, helping boost immunity and improve skin health.
- Bananas
A versatile fruit, bananas provide potassium and fibre, helping regulate digestion and support heart health.
- Clementines
Make your recipes flavourful or enjoy a citrus snack to keep your immune system strong, Clementines also have vitamin C benefits to fight off common Winter illnesses.
- Lemons
Another citrus favourite, lemons are in season during Winter. Not only do you get the immune system benefits but they are a versatile fruit. Infuse lemon into the water to stay hydrated!
How to Eat More Fruit in Winter
If fruit isn’t a part of your daily habits, then trying to eat more in Winter may be a struggle. However, there are some top tips to help you incorporate fruit into your diet this Winter, including:
- Bake into Winter favourite meals or desserts
- Add fruit to water or tea to add nutritional / flavour impact
- Have fruit for breakfast – start your day with fruit so you don’t forget
- Utilise dried fruit and frozen fruit if this works best for you
Fruit Boxes With Marvellous Greens & Beans
If you’re looking to eat more fruit this Winter, our range of fruit boxes will make this easier for you! Flexible UK deliveries and fully customisable features ensure you can choose only what you want and need. Try something new or order your firm favourites, our boxes come in a range of sizes and seasonality. Have a question? Get in touch with our friendly customer service team online or call us on 0203 633 9822.
