## Veggies and Fruits: Let’s Eat the Skins Too!

Scientists have discovered that the peels we often throw away at home can be eaten. For example, the skins of kiwi, pineapple, and melon have lots of fiber inside. Fiber helps our tummy work well, cleans our bowels, and keeps our heart healthy. So eating the skins can be a good extra boost for our bodies.

## Why It Matters

Many people don’t get enough fiber every day. Kids especially need fiber while they are growing. Scientists did a study that showed fruit skins have even more fiber than the fruit inside! This means eating the skins can help us meet our daily fiber needs.

## What Earlier Studies Found

Earlier research showed that vegetable and fruit skins are usually thrown away, but they actually contain nutrition. For instance, carrot skins have vitamin A and vitamin C. Learning this helps us think about waste and food waste.

## Did You Know?

- **Kiwi Skins**: Full of fiber and antioxidants, and they help keep your immune system strong.
- **Pineapple Skins**: Contain an enzyme called bromelain that helps your digestion.
- **Melon Skins**: Packed with water and potassium.

## Questions Kids Might Ask

1. **How do we wash the skins?**
- Rinse them well with water and, if needed, give them a gentle brush. This removes dust and any pesticide leftovers.

2. **Can we eat the skins raw?**
- Yes, but some skins can be a bit hard when raw. You can soften them by giving them a quick boil.

3. **Is eating skins healthy?**
- Yes! They are rich in fiber and vitamins. Just be sure to wash them well because some skins might have pesticide residues.

## Benefits for Kids

- **More Fiber**: Eating skins adds to your daily fiber, helping your digestion run smoothly.
- **Less Food Waste**: Using skins instead of tossing them reduces waste and helps the planet.
- **Extra Vitamins**: Skins contain vitamins and minerals that are important for growing bodies.

## Summary and What’s Next

Scientists have shown that fruit and vegetable skins are nutritious too. This is a great chance to expand kids' eating habits. In the future, people will keep creating new recipes with skins and work to cut down food waste. You can try washing the skins and giving them a quick boil to make a tasty new snack!