Dates

Dates (the fruit, not the ones you go out on with your love interest) are often seen in Chinese recipes, especially those that use some sort of Chinese medicine. Often available in the dry form at grocery stores, these small red fruits are more nutritious than you think.

Dates are a good source of Vitamin C, Vitamin Bs and Vitamin A. It is also rich in dietary fiber. Dates also contain an abundant amount of potassium, a key element in neurological activities.

Packed with antioxidants, dates are often added to chicken soups and desserts. For a simple Chinese dessert, heat 10g of dates, 10g of wolfberry and 50g of soaked white wood ear (an edible fungus) until it boils, then simmer on low heat for 1 hour. Sweeten to taste before serving.

There are plenty of other red fruits and vegetables out there, including strawberries, pink grapefruits, pomegranates and radishes. Eat plenty of them to keep your cells, heart and skin healthy.

A healthy life starts with healthy food. Bon appétit!