Are apples and roses cousins? Is a banana a berry? Do you truly understand the fruits you eat daily? "Ask the Doctor" compiles fascinating facts from American family physicians to reveal 10 surprising truths about fruits and vegetables! World Health Organization research indicates humans can control 81.44% of their own health."Ask the Doctor" prevents illness by sharing authoritative health knowledge to guide you toward wellness! Elevate the quality of life for you and your family!
1/10 Bell peppers are fruits
Surprised? Scientists define fruits as plant parts that develop from flowers and contain seeds. This means bell peppers, cucumbers, and pumpkins are all fruits.
2/10 Bananas are berries
True berries are fruits that grow from a single flower and single ovary. The ovary is equivalent to the flower's ovule. This means grapes, kiwis, and even bananas are berries.
3/10 Broccoli leaves are nutritious too
Raw broccoli contains cancer-fighting compounds, while steamed broccoli helps lower cholesterol. When you cut broccoli into florets (or break them apart), the florets are more nutritious than the stems. And the leaves, which most people discard, actually contain nutrients not found in the florets or stems.
4/10 Avocados are also called alligator pears
Avocados are tropical fruits packed with nutrients and a unique flavor. Though rich in fat, they contain beneficial fats that can lower cholesterol. They also help your body absorb nutrients from other foods.
5/10 Potatoes contain more potassium than bananas
The human body needs potassium to strengthen muscles and regulate blood pressure. When discussing potassium-rich foods, bananas often come to mind. While bananas are indeed high in potassium, they aren't the best source.Potatoes actually contain more potassium. They are fat-free and also an important source of vitamins and iron. 6/10 Tomatoes are both fruits and vegetables Tomatoes are fruits, but they are also vegetables. There's an interesting story about tomatoes in the United States: In the 19th century, the Port of New York taxed merchants selling vegetables. To cut costs, an importer went to court arguing that tomatoes were fruits.The case went all the way to the U.S. Supreme Court, which ruled that produce commonly served with meat and fish is classified as a vegetable. Consequently, the man had to pay the tax. 7/10 Figs are the milk of fruits When it comes to calcium supplementation, figs are a great alternative to milk. Figs are exceptionally rich in calcium. One cup of dried figs contains the same amount of calcium as one cup of milk.Additionally, figs are an important source of fiber. However, don't overindulge—figs are also high in sugar and calories. 8/10 Blackberries aren't actually true berries In the botanical world, blackberries, raspberries, and even strawberries aren't true berries. They are clusters of tiny individual fruits that grow together. But this doesn't diminish their deliciousness.
9/10 Kiwis contain more vitamin C than oranges
Kiwis reign supreme among fruits, packing twice the vitamin C of oranges. They're rich in potassium and low in sodium. Kiwis also boast other vitamins, minerals, and heart-healthy nutrients.
10/10 Apples are cousins to roses
Apples are packed with fiber and vitamin C. When you take a bite, have you noticed their sweet aroma? Fruits like apples, pears, cherries, and plums actually share the same family lineage as roses.