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9 essential truths about fruit
Table of Contents
1. Nutritional components present in fruits
The nutrient content of fruits is assessed based on the quantity of proteins, carbohydrates, fiber, vitamins, and minerals. Fruits, like vegetables, have a high nutrient density, which means that at low energy levels they can provide many essential nutrients necessary for the proper functioning of the body. Fruits primarily contain carbohydrates in the form of simple sugars - fructose. Of course, the amount of fructose is not the same in every fruit and depends on various factors such as type, variety, and maturity of the plant. Fruits are not a significant source of protein and fat. The highest content of these nutrients is found in avocados, which contain 2.2 g of protein, 10 g of fat, and 7.8 g of carbohydrates per 100 g. In comparison, a banana contains 1 g of protein, 0.3 g of fat, and 22.8 g of carbohydrates per 100 g.2. Caloric content of fruits in our diet
The current guidelines of the Institute of Food and Nutrition recommend the regular inclusion of fruits, similar to vegetables, in our diet. Maintaining a balanced ratio between vegetable and fruit consumption is essential, with the correct proportion being approximately 75% vegetables and 25% fruits. Why should such a proportion be maintained? Although fruits are slightly more calorific than vegetables, they can be categorized into fruits that provide more calories and fruits that supply less. Fruits containing a higher amount of calories include bananas (100 g – 89 kcal), grapes (100 g – 67 kcal), and pears (100 g – 57 kcal). Significantly fewer calories can be found in strawberries (100 g – 32 kcal) and watermelons (100 g – 30 kcal). In selecting fruits, we may also consider their glycemic index and choose fruits with an IG below 50.3. A source of nutrients, such as vitamins and minerals
Fruit varieties are categorized based on their vitamin content – the fruit that is a source of vitamin C, the fruit that is a source of beta-carotene, and the fruit that is a source of B-vitamins. Fruits that are rich in vitamin C are, for instance, raspberries, strawberries, and currants. Fruits that contain beta-carotene are apricots, peaches, plums, and mangoes. The third group includes, among others, apples and pears. The berry fruits also provide a small amount of calcium or iron, and bananas provide potassium.4. The source of defensive compounds
Defensive compounds, also known as antioxidants, are substances that prevent oxidation in the body. They are used to eliminate free radicals that are produced in the human body due to bacterial, viral or enzymatic infections. Antioxidants have a beneficial effect on human health. Fruits are a very good source of defensive compounds. Flavonoids, anthocyanins, vitamin C, vitamin E, carotenoids, betalains – these are antioxidants that can be found in fruits and vegetables. Rich in antioxidants are berries, blackberries, plums, raspberries, cherries, chokeberries, pomegranates, red grapes, red grapefruits, oranges and avocado.5. Significant source of dietary fiber
Fruits serve as a valuable and indispensable source of dietary fiber in our diet. This component is key as it aids the digestive system, reinforces the sensation of satiety, and exerts a positive influence on cholesterol and blood sugar levels.6. Vitamin C Acids and their Salts
During fruit processing, special caution should be taken to avoid losses of Vitamin C acids. Fruits should not be crushed too early before consumption, as this may result in loss of their nutritional properties. It is recommended to consume them raw, without heat treatment. Harvested and cut fruits should be protected from contact with air, light, and heat to prevent the breakdown of Vitamin C acids.7. Dried fruits as an alternative to sweets
Fresh and high-quality dried fruits can effectively replace sweets. Dried fruits of high quality, despite their high calorie content, are a valuable source of many nutrients and can help satisfy the desire for something sweet.8. Short eating intervals
Fruits, which contain nutritious components, also serve as an excellent type of snack that can be consumed as a second breakfast or as a pre-meal appetizer for lunch.9. The best seasonal fruits that we can consume!
The most beneficial for our health is to consume fruits that grow in a specific climate area at a specific time of the year, i.e., fresh fruits available seasonally. We must not forget that we cannot consume fruits in this form all year round, so in order not to give up their benefits, we can replace them in the autumn-winter months with frozen products, which, although to a small extent, will replace fresh fruits. However, we should not look for fruits in syrup or canned products, as they can be of poor quality and high in sugar.
