Examining Fruit's Impact

Many people have argued that fruit contains a high sugar content which can be fattening and send out blood sugar through the roof. Recent studies have shown that fruit in general can be beneficial when it comes to type 2 diabetes. Evidence shows that every three servings of whole fruit per week can reduce the risk of diabetes by about 2%. When fruit was studied individually, interesting results were discovered. For every three servings of blueberries consumed per week, type 2 diabetes risk dropped by 26%.  Following blueberries were the grapes and raisins (12% reduced risk), prunes (11%), and apples and pears (7%). Interestingly, bananas, which are often thought to be too sugary to be a part of some diet plans, followed next (5% reduced risk per three servings per week), coming out equal to the more health-associated grapefruit. Peaches, plums, apricots and oranges followed. These fruits were found to have protective characteristics because of the important nutrients they contain. The studies also found that the glycemic index of the fruit, or the measure of its impact on blood sugar did not seem to be a factor when eaten in moderate portions, but research is still being conducted. So try grabbing a piece of whole fruit for a snack or an addition to a meal to help lead a healthier life.