Tropical fruits are absolutely delicious. They also hold key nutritional components like vitamin C, folate acid, fiber, and sodium. Think about, people who lived in the tropics for years have lived off a few core fruits, many of which grow year-round and are very nutrient dense.

The most common tropical fruits used year-round by locals living in the tropics are no surprise – bananas, pineapples, and papaya.

Pineapple: Fun Facts and Health Benefits

Did you know pineapples are related to epiphytes? Those air plants you see hanging on the trees in rain forests. Pineapples are also made up of the fruits of several flowers that have fused around a single core.

More than just bizarre, pineapples are densely packed with vitamin C and manganese. Manganese is an important antioxidant. Just like moringa, pineapples help ease inflammation thanks to bromelain, a protease or protein-digesting enzyme.

A cup of pineapple has 100 percent of your vitamin C needs for the day, some vitamin B1 and B6, and 9 percent of your daily fiber. Best part, a cup of pineapple only has 70-85 calories.

And that weird tongue-tingly feeling you get from eating too much pineapple? That is actually bromelain breaking down the protein your body is made of. That’s why pineapples are great as a meat tenderize.

Papaya: Fun Facts and Health Benefits

Bet you didn’t know papaya seeds are used in the tropics to rid the body of parasitic worms and other digestive problems.

Just like their salty and bitter seeds, papayas are a great natural source of sodium. They also contain 144 percent of your daily vitamin C, 15 percent of your vitamin A, and 20 percent of your daily fiber. Not to mention, beta-carotene, folic acid, thiamin, riboflavin, and more – things that help with heart disease, immune system health, cancer, and arthritis.

These fruits are packed with nutrition and flavor. They are great ingredients for breakfast bowls, juices, and smoothies. Skip the extra sweeteners and throw together this healthy New Years Tropical Green Smoothie instead.

Ingredients

  • ¼ Cup Diced Papaya, Frozen
  • ¼ Cup Diced Pineapple, Frozen
  • ½ Banana
  • 1 Tbsp Pure Vegetable Moringa Powder
  • ½ Cup Coconut Water

Directions

  1. Pre-cut fruit and freeze for at least 2 hours.
  2. Place all ingredients in a blender and blend until smooth and pieces of kale are not visible.
  3. Add additional coconut water or fruit to desired consistency.
  4. Imagine yourself on a tropical beach and enjoy!
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