Our markets and roadside stands are now filled with ripe, luscious fruit – nature’s convenience food. Summer fruits are refreshing because of their high water content and are filled with nutrients our bodies need to fight infections and repair cells. Just one serving a day of fruits like plums, peaches, cherries, watermelon, strawberries, blueberries and blackberries provide the antioxidants we need to help prevent premature aging as well as conditions such as heart disease, stroke and possibly some cancers.

But don’t stop at just one serving. The Centers for Disease Control recommend up to two servings of fruit a day for moderately active adults. That’s because fruit is also packed with vitamins and minerals including vitamins A and C, folate, potassium and manganese as well as dietary fiber that helps keep the digestive system in order. So go ahead – indulge! Enjoy this colorful and delicious summer harvest while the picking is plentiful.