Variety comparisons and diverse culinary forms, such as juices or dried extracts, determine the nutritional value and physiological impact of plant-based diets on systemic health.
Despite the fact that it is poisonous, ackee is the national fruit of Jamaica and the star of popular home cooked dishes. This bright red berry grows on a tree that has its origins in West Africa. Purdue University notes that the fruit grows in other Caribbean islands, such as Haiti and the Bahamas.
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Sweet potatoes are the edible, underground root of the sweet potato vine, with a tan-colored skin and sweet-tasting, bright orange flesh. Baking is a popular method of preparing them. Low in fat, a baked sweet potato is a healthy source of calories and nutrients.
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Kiwifruit originated in China where it was once considered a delicacy. Kiwi was introduced into North America in the 1960s; since then, many have enjoyed the unique taste of kiwi which blends a combination of strawberries, pineapple and bananas, notes the author of the book, "The World's Healthiest Foods."
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According to Recipe Tips, eating raw sprouts is not recommended because of the risk of bacteria and food illness. Cooking alfalfa sprouts will kill any potential bacteria on them, ensuring safety. Sprouts only stay fresh for a few days, even if you keep them in the refrigerator.
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Paintings of Greek mythology often depict the deities supping on bunches of grapes. The sweet fruits were considered worthy of the gods for good reason. Grapes are an excellent source potassium, calcium and vitamin A. The juicy orbs are also a delicious, low-calorie treat in your daily diet.
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Most entrees at the Olive Garden come with your choice of soup or salad. If you opt for soup, you can choose from Minestrone, Chicken and Gnocchi, Pasta e Fagioli and Zuppa Toscana. Nutritional values vary depending on your selection.
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Red potatoes are rich in vitamin C and potassium. Typically thought of as being primarily a source of carbohydrates, a small potato can contain up to 3 1/2 grams of protein as well.
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The number of calories you need every day depends on your age, gender, weight and activity level. Daily calorie needs range from 1,600 to 3,000 for adults, according to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services.
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Olives alone have only four to five calories each. "Low-calorie" foods contain 40 calories or less per serving, according to U.S. Food and Drug Administration labeling guidelines, and a serving of 10 green or black olives has only 40 calories.
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Whether dipped into melted chocolate, baked into a pie, sliced onto cold cereal or eaten straight out of the pint, strawberries are a low-calorie source of essential nutrients. They're particularly rich in vitamin C.
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Rich in vitamin A and beta-carotene, the sweet potato offers complex carbohydrates along with antioxidant nutrients. If you're watching the glycemic index of your foods you may be surprised by the sweet potato's rating.
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Fuji apples are a variety of apple that originates in Japan. They are yellowish-green in color with red highlights. Harvested in September and October, Fuji apples are sold in U.S. supermarkets year round.
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Native to Central America, avocados now grow in many warmer parts of the Americas, Australia, Africa and Asia. The fruit's unusual creamy texture and mild flavor make it useful in a wide variety of foods, including dips, spreads and salads. Rich in nutrients, yet low in calories, the avocado is also an ideal diet food.
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Iceberg lettuce can be a crisp, refreshing addition to salads or sandwiches, though its nutritional content pales next to its dark-green relatives. Darker lettuces like romaine and red leaf are richer in vitamin A, beta-carotene and other nutrients than iceberg.
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The crunch of baby carrots is so satisfying, you just might be able to swap potato chips for nature's sweet orange gems. Not only are baby carrots a low-calorie snack, they are also packed with nutrients including folate, calcium, phosphorus and vitamin A.
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The name for the pomegranate fruit is derived from Latin and literally means "seeded apple." Only the seeds are edible and are found inside this large, hexagonal-shaped red fruit. An average pomegranate contains about 600 juicy seeds, also known as arils, which are encapsulated in white pith.
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Yellow apples are not as common as red and green varieties; however, they have the same nutritional value and calories. Apples contain natural sugar and fiber, which makes them a good snack food. Common yellow apple varieties include Golden Delicious, Pippin and Crispin.
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Adult women are encouraged to one and one half cups of fruit everyday and males should have two cups. Dried fruits like apricots are a good source of fiber and can be included in a healthful diet as a fruit serving, with 1/2 cup of dried fruit equal to one cup of fresh fruits.
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Most people probably would not take the time to classify a fruit as citrus or non-citrus unless they have gastrointestinal problems and should avoid citric acid. Popular citrus fruits include oranges, grapefruit and lemons and are known for being loaded with vitamin-C and detoxifying agents.
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Alfalfa sprouts are a member of the pea family and are therefore classified as legumes. Alfalfa sprouts are nutrient-dense and are rich in vitamins and minerals including vitamin A, B vitamins, zinc, calcium, magnesium and folic acid.
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