Are you eating enough fruit?

In praise of nature's candy, come summer, I try to pop blueberries and raspberries instead of M&M's. But studies show that 70 percent of women don't get the recommended two servings of fruit a day. Some shun the sweeter side of produce because they think it's fattening; others believe they're covered nutritionally if they double up on veggies. My response: You're doing your health - and waistline - a disservice. Here are three good reasons to rediscover fruit.

• It's Chock-Full of Nutrients. Yes, fruit contains natural sugar, but it's balanced by vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. Broaden your spectrum and your body will benefit even more: Researchers from Colorado State University found that women who ate a wide variety of produce for two weeks had less oxidation in their cells (a marker for premature aging and disease) than those who stuck to just a few types.
• It Will Help You Slim Down. Low in calories and packed with water and fiber, fruit fills you up without filling you out. In fact, research shows that people who eat it every day have lower BMIs than those who don't - even lower than veggie eaters.
• You Can Mix It With Everything. Blend chopped cherries with lean ground beef for a succulent burger, or grill skewers that alternate cantaloupe chunks with bell pepper and red onion. For a sweet finish, top frozen yogurt with sliced plums.