Quince paste
Quince is a low calorie fruit. It contains 84% water, in which we find different minerals and trace elements: potassium, phosphorus, magnesium, iron, copper.
Thanks to the fibers, the quince allows a good intestinal transit and would prevent the risk of cardiovascular diseases, diabetesand obesity. Its flesh composed of tannin would protect the mucous membranes of the stomach, colon and rectum.
But be careful, quince paste contains a lot of sugar!
White grapes
the grape purifies and protects the organism. By its high water content, grapes are a diuretic fruit with an interesting proportion of fiber. So this fruit can “clean” the intestines and the liver. It is also rich in mineral salts: in potassium which reduces blood pressure and regulates the heart rate, but also in iron, selenium (which stimulates the immune system and reduces fine lines among other properties), magnesium, zinc … But to benefit from the benefits of grapes, choose organic, because their fiber and polyphenol content would be higher.
Christmas melon
The Christmas melon (or Verdau) is also called the Melon Vert Olive de Provence because its color is dark green and its shape like a wrinkled olive.
It is a variety with very sweet white flesh.
Rich in water and potassium, melon has diuretic properties. Very low in calories, melon contains only 30 to 50 calories per 100 grams. Melon also contains fibers which play an important role in intestinal transit.
Unfortunately this white-fleshed melon does not bring as much beta carotene (excellent for eyes and skin) than melons with orange flesh.
Dates
Dates are a good source of fiber. They allow a good intestinal transit, a regulation of the blood sugar and a decrease in bad cholesterol levels. They also protect the heart and lower the risk of developing colon cancer. These fruits with a high concentration of sugars are perfect for intense sports activities. Dieters should not abuse it.
Oranges or tangerines
The pulp and juice of oranges and tangerines are rich in vitamin C and contain many antioxidants that play a role in preventing cancer of the esophagus, stomach, colon, mouth and pharynx. The vitamin C consumed regularly helps fight against cardiovascular disease.
Dried fruits called the four beggars
The beggars are four in number and are represented by four dried fruits: grapes, figs, almonds and hazelnuts. By analogy with the dresses of the mendicant orders: raisins for the Dominicans, dried figs for the Franciscans, hazelnuts or walnuts for the Augustinians and almonds for the Carmelites.
An important source of vitamins and minerals, dried fruits are the allies of our health. Raisins are high in boron (2.2 mg / 100 g), a trace element that is believed to support bone health. Eating raisins may, according to some studies, prevent osteoporosis.
Dried figs are recommended for people who are deficient in iron.
Thanks to the phytosterols they provide, almonds and hazelnuts reduce bad cholesterol (LDL-cholesterol). They would also protect against heart disease, diabetes, hypertension and cognitive decline.
To complete the 13 Christmas desserts, add calissons d’Aix, white and black nougat, an oil pump or fougasse to your table.
Read also:
Yule logs 2014: discover the most delicious creations
Quiz: Do you know the health benefits of holiday foods?
Light raspberry Christmas log recipe by Arnaud Delmontel
