Recent studies report eating more fruit improves skin, hair and brain health

CINCINNATI(WKRC) - If you need a few more reasons to stock up on the summer fruits of the season, we have them.

You may not realize it, buta typical fruit salad is more powerful than a pill when it comes to what it can do inside your own body.

A recent report in Consumer Reports lists the top health reasons to eat more fruit.

Topping that list is the fact that, contrary to some beliefs, fruit won't make you fat. The sugars in it are natural and not only don't contain fat but may actually help slim you down.

A study in the British Medical Journal found when more than 120 thousand women tracked weight, those with the most flavonoids had better weight maintenance. Lucky for us, the deep, dark colors of yummy fruits, such as cherries and berries, are loaded with flavonoids.

In addition, the colors in fruit contain flavors and textures called phytochemicals that help everything from your skin and hair to your brain health.

A second reason to eat more fruit is how nutrient-dense it is.

Almost all fruits are packed with potassium and fiber, two nutrients we all need. Most are also good sources of vitamins C and A, as well as folate, which is good for your eyes and heart.

A recent study from Harvard found those who ate one or more servings of blueberries or two or more servings of strawberries per week delayed brain aging by two-and-a-half years.