The shape and texture of fruit is sensuous and fascinating, but the true delight blossoms when you experience the flavor of these colorful gifts of nature. Fresh fruit has been pleasing palates since the beginning of time. It is recognized around the world as a symbol of success, friendship, and goodwill.

Fruit contains dietary fiber, and it contains essential nutrients believed to increase vitality. Eating fresh fruit on a regular basis will keep you looking sexy and beautiful at any age. It is one of the best kept beauty secrets out there, and it’s a nutritional essential if you want to have — or maintain a "bikini body."

Fresh fruit is lower in calories by volume than dried fruit or fruit juices, and generally speaking, fruit is low in calories, sodium and fat. The natural sugars found in fruit can satisfy a sweet tooth. It’s high in complex carbohydrates, so it’s a favorite snack of "waist-watchers" and athletes. It provides an excellent source of energy that can enhance athletic performance.

Canned, frozen, and dried fruits often contain additives, sweeteners, sodium, or preservatives, so my preference is fresh fruit. You can take advantage of the full flavor of fresh fruits by knowing how to choose them for proper color, texture and freshness. Here are a few tips:

Apples – Choose ones that are crisp and firm.

Bananas – Look for yellow ones flecked with brown spots. Watch out for bruises…they can spoil the flavor.

Blueberries – Select firm, dark berries…avoid ones that are soft or light colored.

Oranges & Grapefruits – Choose ones that are heavy and firm. Steer clear of grapefruits with brown spots. Look for ones with thin skins…they contain more juice.

Pears – Don’t buy pears that have bruises, cut skins, or mushy spots. Select ones with a firm, but pliant texture.

Strawberries – Select ones with bright red color. Smaller strawberries are usually sweeter than larger ones.

Lemons – Thin-skinned lemons are usually juicier. Choose ones that are heavy for their size, and look for ones with a fine-grain texture.

Here’s more food for thought . . . When you choose fresh fruit you’ll be helping your "bikini body" by providing it with necessary components for good health. Here are some nutritional tidbits based on claims, tradition and scientific theory:

Apples – Apples are loaded with pectin; a soluble fiber associated with many health benefits, and they contain dietary fiber. In fact, one apple contains as much fiber as a bowl of bran cereal. And the scent of warm apples baking in the oven can warm your heart and home.

Bananas – This popular fruit is a good source of Vitamins B, C and A. They also contain high levels of potassium, which helps to help maintain fluid balance in the body, and it’s an essential mineral for building muscle. Bananas are great for fitness activity because they replenish necessary carbohydrates, glycogen, and body fluids burned during exercise.

Blueberries – You won’t be blue when you learn the benefits of blueberries. These little beauties pack a bundle of antioxidants in each bite, and antioxidants are often called "anti-aging" substances. Blueberries are high in manganese, and they contain a good content of Vitamins B1 and C. In other words, they are berry good for you.

Cherries – There’s a lot to cheer about when it comes to cherries. They’re rich in potassium, B complex and Vitamin C. And, many health experts believe cherry consumption is good for your heart. They contain antioxidants and substances associated with heart and bone health.

Grapefruit – Although grapefruits are high in water content (about 90%), they are a good source of Vitamins B1, and B2, and they’re high in vitamin C. They are low in calories and sodium and high in potassium. So, whether pink or white, they’re always right!

Oranges – This sweet and juicy fruit is treasured for its high concentration of Vitamin C, which is vital for a healthy immune system. Did you know that oranges are one of the most popular fruits in the world? It’s hard to imagine a day without a glass of fresh-squeezed orange juice. This delicious citrus fruit gets a "Bikini Body Fitness Award" from me!

Lemons – This zesty fruit is like juicy sunshine. Lemons are high in vitamin C and they’re a good source of Vitamin B1. Lemon water is associated with a myriad of health benefits, and gourmet cooks know that lemons are a powerhouse when it comes to bringing out the flavor of food. So, pucker up and give a thank-you kiss to a lemon.

Strawberries – These popular berries are fragrant and delicious, and they contain nutrients known to promote optimal health. They are high in iron and Vitamin C, and they are a good source of fiber and potassium. Did you know that strawberries are the only fruit that wears its seeds on the outside? I love to use them as a garnish...so pretty on a plate.

Pears – Pears contain Vitamin C and copper -- and copper helps to protect your body from "free radical" damage. Pears invoke sensuality with their lovely contours and delightful texture. Did you know that pears are often recommended as a hypoallergenic fruit by health care practitioners? In fact, it is often one of the first fruits introduced to infants.

Fresh fruit can be exotic and fragrant, sweet or tangy, soft or chewy — even crunchy and crispy. But it’s always delicious.

So, enjoy the beauty of fresh fruit, and eat it in good health!____________________________________________________________

DeBarra Mayo has written several fitness books and hundreds of articles about fitness. She has some great ideas that will help you feel and look more sexy in a bikini.

Disclaimer: The information on this site is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, or for medical diagnosis or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician, or a qualified health care provider before starting a new diet, treatments or exercise programs - or consult with your physician about questions regarding a medical condition. If you are pregnant, always seek the advice of your physician before starting a new diet, treatments or exercise program.