Nutrition Information on Fruit

Nutrition Information on Fruit
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Fruit is a natural food that grows on trees, shrubs, bushes and vines. It is characterized by having a protective skin, and it bears seeds that can be planted to grow more fruit. It also has a high water content; it is sweet to the taste and it comes in fresh, frozen, canned and dried varieties. The nutrition information of fruit makes it a healthy snack option and a good addition to your meals.

Carbs

Carbohydrates are a macronutrient the body needs in high amounts for proper functioning. When they are consumed, they get converted to glucose and used immediately for energy, or they are stored as glycogen in the muscles and liver. Fruit is high in carbohydrates, and it can be used when you are in need of a quick boost of energy. A regular sized apple has approximately 20 g of carbohydrates.

Protein

Protein content of fruit is low; it is not a good option if you are trying to increase your protein intake. Bananas, apples, blackberries, grapefruit, blueberries and apricots are all examples of fruits that have less than 2 g of protein per serving.

Fiber

Fiber is a non-digestible substance that can help fill you up, keep you feeling full and lower your overall intake of calories. According to the Mayo Clinic, fiber can also help reduce the risk for heart disease and diabetes. It recommends that women get 21 to 25 g of fiber a day and men get 31 to 38 grams. All types of fruit have fiber, but raspberries, oranges, pears, apples and bananas are some of the highest. They have at least 3 g per serving.

Vitamins

Vitamin C is an antioxidant vitamin that helps with cell regeneration; it also helps promote the formation of collagen which keeps the skin elastic. Citrus fruits like kiwi, oranges, grapefruits, lemons and limes are all high in vitamin C.
Vitamin A is another antioxidant vitamin, and it helps to improve vision, strengthen bones and boost immunity. Cantaloupe, watermelon, peaches, tomatoes and blackberries are all high in vitamin A.

Identification

Avocados and olives are two types of fruit that are not sweet; they contain a high amount of fat. Avocados have 10 g per 100g serving; olives have 14 g per 100g serving. But this fat is in the form of monounsaturated, which is beneficial to the body. According to the American Heart Association, monounsaturated fats can lower your risk for heart disease and stroke.

References

Article reviewed by James Dryden Last updated on: Dec 3, 2009

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