Cutting back on sugar?
That’s no reason to cut back on fruit.
Here’s why fruit is an essential part of a healthy diet.
Photo: Photography by The Voorhes Food styling by Michelle Gatton
But there’s one kind of sugar that doesn’t deserve to get kicked to the curb: fruit.
How Is the Sugar in Fruit Different?
The sugar naturally found in fruit is different from the dozens of various sweeteners on grocery store shelves.
Naturally occurring sugars are also found in dairy and vegetables.
You’re also getting a plethora of other nutrients.
For example, fruits and vegetables provide you with vitamins, minerals, fiber and antioxidants.
Here are a few more reasons to make fruit a part of your healthy diet.
Perhaps that’s why theAmerican Heart Associationsuggests two servings of fruit each day.
Cancer
Eating fruit may also help protect against certain types of cancer.
But research suggests the opposite.
We definitely can’t say the same for donutsorany other products with added sugarsfor that matter.
And if you’re wondering if you caneat fruit if you have diabetes, Valente says yes.
“Eating fruit has not been linked with higher blood sugar, even for people with diabetes.”
I especially like frozen fruit for smoothies and dried fruit for snacking."
“The benefits to eating fruit definitely outweigh any downsides,” says Valente.
“Fruit has so many great nutritional qualities and it just happens to taste good.
That’s a win-win in my book.”
