Fresh fruit is delicious and much more satisfying than processed snacks, and can be a step towards better health as well.  It has been shown that diets rich in vegetables and fresh fruit reduce the risk of chronic diseases and other conditions due to the high levels of antioxidants and vitamins that they contain.   In addition, citrus fruits contain a significant amount of fiber, which aids in digestion and may protect against some forms of cancer as well as heart disease, and help lower the levels of bad cholesterol in the blood stream.  Fresh fruit is a natural energy booster as well, and unlike sugared snacks, won’t leave you tired and drained two hours after you eat it. For those who are dieting, fresh fruits and vegetables are the ideal taste treat, because they are naturally fat free, low calorie, and high in nutrition. The high fiber content makes them filling and satisfying as well.  The versatility of fresh fruits means that they can be used in every meal, in appetizers, entrees, desserts, and beverages.  Instead of that slice of chocolate cake, why not try some fresh fruit slices and low fat yogurt. Instead of the high sugar snack that you usually eat at work, why not take an orange instead?  You can also add citrus fruit to salads, to smoothies, and other delectable, good-for-you treats.   The Hale Groves’ website has several fun recipes for you to try and enjoy all involving delicious fresh fruit as the principal ingredient.  From salads to fudge for special occasion, to fruity drinks and main courses; visit the Hale Groves website often for new recipes and ideas to try. Fresh fruit is grown, produced and shipped at a staggering rate of 71 million tons per year, and the United States ranks first for citrus production. Of all of the citrus producing regions of the United States, Florida is the most well known and most prolific, which is understandable when you consider that citrus fruits have been a part of the landscape of Florida since the 16th Century. At Hale Groves, we know that fresh fruit not only tastes great, but is also good for your health, which is why we offer fresh assortments of citrus fruits year round, shipped to your door at the very peak of freshness. Whether you love oranges, grapefruits, tangelos, or all of the above, you’ll find the perfect fresh fruit gift for yourself or someone on your gift list each and every time you shop at Hale Groves.