May is the month of red fruits such as cherries, strawberries, currants and plums, rich in antioxidants, anthocyanins and polyphenols, useful in countering the oxidative stress associated with rheumatic diseases.
FRUITS OF MAY
Cherries , typical of this month of May, are interesting for reducing joint pain. According to a research team from Northumbria University that published its study in the Journal of Functional Foods, sour cherry juice (a variety of cherries) would be able to act on uric acid metabolism, greatly reducing the pain felt in case of inflamed joints and also decreasing the C reactive protein, marker of inflammation.
Strawberries , in addition to being delicious, have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties . Inside them there is salicylic acid which allows to keep blood pressure and blood fluidity under control and also allows to counteract joint pain caused by arthrosis and arthritis.
Currants , with an elegant appearance, are berries slightly smaller than blueberries . It has a strong and sour taste and is perfect to combine with both sweet and savory dishes. It helps protect cells from oxidative stress and helps in normal collagen formation and is therefore an excellent ally for maintaining healthy skin, bones and teeth.
Plums , which fully ripen from June to September, possess nutritional properties that should not be underestimated: it supports the weakened nervous system, promotes renal activity, decongests the liver and, due to its strong purifying power, is suitable for those suffering from arteriosclerosis , gout, joint pain and kidney inflammation. Dehydrated plum is also an excellent ally due to its concentration of active ingredients and beneficial substances.
What to prepare with this beautiful May fruit basket?
Here are some ideas, to make full use of their properties.
LIVELY EXTRACT
Thanks to an extractor or centrifuge it is possible to make a juice from these fruits, to enjoy all the anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.
Ingredients:
- 250 grams of cherries
- 300 grams of strawberries
- 125 grams of currants
Method:
Cut the fruit into small pieces and insert everything into an extractor or centrifuge. In the absence of these, use a simple blender and then filter. You can also make a smoothie by adding vegetable milk such as rice, almond or soy.
FRUIT SANDWICH
A nice and comfortable idea to eat fruit in a slightly different way. Recipe widely used for picnics in Asia, especially in Japan where it is a real trend. It is made with cream and the fruit we like best: today we prepare it with strawberries!
Whip the cream and let it cool in the fridge. Place some cream on the slice of bread and then distribute the fruit over the entire surface, cover again with the cream and place the second slice of bread. Wrap the sandwich in transparent paper and place it in the refrigerator for 20-30 minutes. Only after this resting time cut it in half and enjoy a healthy and delicious snack.
