Hyderabad: Every nutritionist stresses the importance of fruits for a healthy diet.
Kiwi, apples and citrus fruits are much sought after for their antioxidant and nutritional value, but as they are highly priced, not everyone can afford them.
Nutritionist Dr Sushmita Aggarwal explained, “Kiwi is high in antioxidants and also has higher level of micronutrients, which are good for people suffering from uncontrolled blood pressure and skin issues. Recent studies have shown that those who are suffering from sleep issues should eat kiwi which improves the onset and duration of sleep.”
Mr Alok Chandra, a food expert, said many locally grown fruits are as healthy. “Kiwi has become popular as a health fruit so people think they must have it when they are ill. This is not the case. We have a whole range of citrus fruits but they are not marketed in the same manner. Like grapefruit is very high in nutritional fibre, sodium and vitamin C.”
A senior nutritionist points out that imported fruits often lose their value because of the time it takes to transport them. “It is important to have a mix of both local and international fruits, which will help to strike the right nutritional balance,” he said.
