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Health & Fitness

Summer Fruits Entice for a New Reason

Something everybody can enjoy this time of year is summer fruits. In time for this bounty of flavor, theEuropean Journal of Cancer has reported that eating fruit reduces the risk of developing stomach cancer.

The journal authors analyzed 24 separate studies (called a meta-analysis) that included a total of 2.4 million participants for about 10 years. They found that the consumption of fruit had a “significant protective effect” on stomach cancer risk. Furthermore, all fruit has this benefit–not just summer fruits. So once the days start getting shorter again, take advantage of what’s in season during the autumn and winter, like apples, pears, oranges and grapefruit.

Shop for Summer Fruits

We’ve just begun the peak season for:

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  • berries (blackberries, blueberries, raspberries and strawberries);
  • melons like cantaloupe, honeydew and watermelon;
  • apricots, nectarines, peaches and plums (known collectively as stone fruits for their large pit); and
  • cherries, figs and red grapes.

Take advantage of these abundant crops in the coming months, when their flavor is best and prices are at their lowest. For the best value, buy fresh produce in its simplest form. Summer fruits that are pre-cut, pre-washed or ready-to-eat may be convenient, but cost much more than when purchased in their basic forms.

This post was written by Nancy Copperman, RD, corporate director of public health initiatives in the office of community and public health at the North Shore-LIJ Health System.

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Contents of the health blog are the property of North Shore-LIJ Health System and are provided as a health resource for consumers, health care professionals and members of the media. The medical content on the North Shore-LIJ Health Blog is for informational purposes only and should not be considered a substitute for consultation with your physician regarding diagnosis, treatment or any other form of specific medical advice. These materials may be reprinted for noncommercial personal use only. "North Shore-LIJ Health System," "North Shore-LIJ," "northshorelij.com," "VivoHealth," their related entities and logos are trademarks of the North Shore-LIJ Health System. Copyright © 2011 North Shore-LIJ Health System. All rights reserved.

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