Which Fruits Contain Alpha Hydroxy Acid?

Alpha hydroxy acids, or AHAs, are a type of acid found naturally in fruit and certain other foods. According to ABC News, AHAs naturally exfoliate the skin, which is why they are frequently added to skin care products. Since skin care products can be pricey and do not provide the body with all the additional antioxidants found in fruit, try getting your alpha hydroxy acids through nutrition. The fruits that contain AHAs also provide a wealth of other health benefits.

Papayas

Papays are available in most grocery stores year-round. In addition to improving skin tone, they also contain papain, an enzyme that supports digestive health. Poor digestive health is attributed to a variety of problems from weight gain to acne. According to a 2013 issue of the "Journal of Medicinal Plants Studies," papayas also support cardiovascular health and protect the body against colon cancer 2.

Pineapples

Due to their tough exterior, pineapples are not the easiest fruit to consume, but they can do wonders for the skin. If you find that they are too difficult to slice, look for prepackaged slices in the produce section or try canned pineapple. Make sure that the canned pineapple is not loaded with sugar or other preservatives.

Grapes

Grapes are one of the healthiest fruits because they contain resveratrol. Also found in red wine, resveratrol may play an important role in blood clotting and the prevention of cardiovascular disease and dementia, according to the Harvard School of Public Health 4. Drinking too much alcohol can be dangerous. so it should always be done in moderation.

Apples

Apples are great for people on the go because they can be stored just about anywhere without having to worry about temperature. Just one apple contains about 4 grams of fiber, which helps lower cholesterol, blood pressure and reduce the risk of heart disease and obesity, according to the April 2009 issue of "Nutrition Reviews."

Lemons

Including lemons in the diet can be tricky because they are not something most people can enjoy as an afternoon snack. Furthermore, lemonade or other lemon-flavored juices are likely loaded with preservatives and contain little to no actual lemon. Instead, try adding fresh lemon to water or herbal teas.