Hidden Threat: Five winter fruits that can undermine your health

Bright imported fruits that appear on the shelves with the onset of cold weather are traditionally considered a source of vitamins. However, nutritionists and Rospotrebnadzor experts warn that thoughtless consumption of some popular treats can lead to serious health problems, from acute poisoning to chronic diseases. All the details are in the Izvestia article.

Citrus fruits: acid attack and invisible chemistry

Oranges, tangerines and grapefruits are strongly associated with New Year's holidays and the fight against vitamin deficiency. However, these fruits top the list of the strongest allergens. Excessive consumption can provoke hives, swelling and dermatitis even in those who have not previously suffered from such reactions. A high concentration of fruit acids poses a danger to the gastric mucosa.

Gastroenterologists do not recommend getting carried away with citrus fruits for patients with gastritis, peptic ulcer disease and high acidity. Experts are particularly concerned about the processing of fruits to preserve their presentation and increase shelf life. Antifungal formulations, wax coatings and preservatives based on sorbic acid are used for this purpose. These substances are difficult to completely wash off with water, and their residues on the skin can enter the body.

Persimmon: a viscous trap for the intestines

The popular winter fruit contains a record amount of tannins, tannins that provide a characteristic astringent taste. In unripe fruits, their concentration is especially high. When in contact with gastric juice, tannins can form dense clots. These formations, known as bezoars, can cause peristalsis disorders and, in severe cases, lead to acute intestinal obstruction requiring surgical intervention.

The most vulnerable groups are people with chronic gastrointestinal diseases, patients who have undergone abdominal surgery, and young children. The right choice of fruits helps to reduce risks. Ripe persimmons have a thin skin and jelly-like flesh, and nutritionists advise eating them no more than once a day and not combining them with fiber-rich foods.

How to choose a pomegranate: the ripest and juiciest fruits in the store

The crown of the pomegranate should be dry and open.

Garnet: an enamel destroyer and a constipation provoker

Pomegranate is positioned as a natural source of iron, but its ability to affect hemoglobin is greatly exaggerated. A more significant property of the fruit is its high acidity. Dentists note that regular consumption of concentrated pomegranate juice leads to thinning of the enamel and increased sensitivity of teeth to hot and cold.

To minimize harm, experts recommend drinking juice only through a straw, after diluting it with water, and rinsing your mouth thoroughly after use. Another side effect is the strengthening properties of pomegranate, which forces people who are prone to constipation to limit its amount in the diet. The peel of the fruit is also unsafe, where alkaloids are concentrated — compounds that are toxic to humans.

Grapes: record holder for pesticides and nitrates

Winter grapes coming from countries with a warm climate undergo long-term transportation. To maintain a presentable appearance, manufacturers actively use agrochemicals. The soft skin and high sugar content make the bunches an ideal environment for the development of fungi, which forces unscrupulous suppliers to use fungicides that are dangerous to humans.

The systematic ingestion of these substances into the body is associated with an increased risk of endocrine disorders and allergies. The main precautions include buying grapes only at certified points of sale and washing them thoroughly under running water. Special care should be taken by people with diabetes and irritable bowel syndrome, as the high glycemic index and the ability to cause fermentation limit the use of this product.

Exotic fruits: an unpredictable reaction of the body

During the winter season, there is a growing demand for passion fruit, lychee and carambola. For most Russians, these fruits remain unfamiliar, which creates additional risks. They can cause severe allergic reactions, from skin rashes to Quincke's edema. Some types, such as lychee, when consumed on an empty stomach can provoke hypoglycemia — a sharp drop in blood sugar levels.

This condition is especially dangerous for children and people with metabolic disorders. The lack of reliable information about the rules of cleaning and consumption increases the likelihood of negative consequences. Experts advise introducing exotics into the diet gradually, starting with small portions, and contacting a doctor if any undesirable symptoms occur, bearing in mind that the digestive system is better adapted to the region's traditional foods.

Moderation and proper fruit processing can reduce potential risks. Nutritionists recommend washing imported fruits with hot water using a brush, and in the presence of chronic diseases, consult a doctor before preparing a winter menu.