The Advantages of Fruits and Vegetables for Health
By Umar Sallau, MD | November 07, 2022
Our health depends on eating plenty of fruits and vegetables. In fact, when Allah (the Almighty God) lists His mercies to us in Surah Ar-Rahman (Qur'an 55), He begins by mentioning fruit before any other sustenance. Most of the foods prepared for the People of Paradise are fruits as well.
The Noble Qur'an mentions fruits 14 times in total: 11 mentions of the word fakihah (fruit) and three mentions of fawakih (fruits). Both Yaqteen (Qur'an 37:146), translated as gourd or gourd vine, and Baql (Qur'an 2:61), translated as herbs, pot-herbs, green herbs, or vegetables, are mentioned as well.
Fruits and vegetables provide vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants that support the body's natural defenses, and diets rich in produce are widely recommended for long-term health.
Leafy green vegetables are a good source of potassium, magnesium, chromium, and vitamins C and E, which support healthy metabolism. The antioxidant and fiber content of fruits supports heart health. Fiber helps maintain healthy cholesterol and blood sugar levels already within the normal range, while antioxidants help defend against free radicals. With their low-calorie, high-fiber content, fruits and vegetables also support healthy weight management and the body's natural cleansing processes.
Vegetables are rich in polyphenols, antioxidants that help protect your cells. Alfalfa, broccoli, and onions (all present in our Organic Greens and Fruits) contain polyphenols, as do raspberries, blackberries, and apples (also included). Cruciferous vegetables such as broccoli, cabbage, cauliflower, Brussels sprouts, and kale (all included) contain sulforaphane, a compound widely studied for its antioxidant properties.
Beyond their nutritional value, polyphenols enhance the flavor and color of your food. They supply vital nutrients that keep the body functioning well, and a diet rich in fruits and vegetables is a cornerstone of good health.
Garlic and onions (Qur'an 2:61), barley [grass], which the Noble Prophet Muhammad (on whom be peace) recommended (Ibn Majah), celery (Imam Ibn Qayyim), and other nutrient-dense fruits and vegetables were chosen for you in our Unique Herbs Organic Greens and Fruits.
To make sure you and your family are getting the nutrients you need, include fruits and vegetables in your meals. Millions supplement them as well.
References:
Drs. Muhammad Taqi-ud-Din Al-Hilali and Muhammad Muhsin Khan, Interpretation of the Meaning of the Noble Qur'an in the English Language
English Translations of the Qur'an and Notes from Saheeh International
Hadith
Imam Ibn Qayyim, The Prophetic Medicine
Dr. Umar Sallau, Get Healthy With the Quranic Superfoods (Forthcoming, in sha Allah)
Ikram Kurdi, Foods and Drinks of the Quran
DISCLAIMER
This article is for educational purposes only and is not medical advice. These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. Unique Herbs products are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. Consult your healthcare provider before making changes to your diet, supplements, or medications.
