What Are the Best Fruits for Low Carb Dieting?
It's important to eat healthy if you're trying to lose weight, and, for some people, that means limiting carbohydrates. Although extremely low carb diets aren't always the healthiest option for weight loss and aren't a realistic long term solution, avoiding foods that are high in sugar can be an important part of a successful longer term eating plan. Most vegetables are relatively low in carbohydrates, but some fruits can be a problem for a low carb dieter because of their high fructose content. Still, fruits are a good source of fiber, vitamins, and phytonutrients which are important for overall health. If you want to eat fruit, but limit sugar and carbs, which should you choose? What are the best fruits for low carb eating?
Fruits for Low Carb Dieting: Fruits to Avoid
Certain fruits shouldn't be on your list if you're trying to limit carbohydrates. Dried fruits may sound like a healthy snack option, but the drying process turns them into a very concentrated source of sugar. It's far better from a carbohydrate and calorie standpoint to eat fresh fruit instead. It's also important to avoid canned fruits that are packed in syrup and to stay away from fruit juices as well, especially ones that have added sugar. Head for the fresh produce aisle instead.
Other fruits that aren't good for low carb eating are bananas, grapes, cherries, and pineapple. Bananas are a particularly rich source of carbs with almost 24 grams in a single serving. Other fruits to avoid if you're looking for fruits that are low in carbohydrates include oranges, mangos, plums, and pears because of their concentrated sugar content.
Fruits for Low Carb Dieting: Better Choices
The best option when selecting fruits that are low in carbohydrates is to choose from the berry family. Blackberries, raspberries, strawberries, blueberries, and cranberries are all low in carbs and are an excellent source of flavonoids which are good antioxidants. Berries have so many other additional health benefits that they're an easy choice to make. Peaches are relatively low in sugar and carbs; and if you're looking for something more exotic, papaya and guava are good options. The all-American summertime favorite, watermelon, is also relatively low in carbs and high in heart-healthy lycopenes.
Yes, you can enjoy the health benefits of fruit even if you're on a low carb eating plan. Simply look for fruit options that are low in carbohydrates and enjoy them in moderation.