How healthy is dried fruit? can you lose weight?

Until now, the question of how healthy dried fruit is is still a matter of debate. Some say this type of fruit is a nutritious and healthy snack, while others claim it is no better than candy.

So, how healthy is this type of fruit? Find out the answer in this article.

Nutritional content of dried fruit

Before answering the question of how healthy dried fruit is, it is better if we first know the nutritional content of this type of fruit.

Dried fruit and fresh fruit basically contain many of the same health benefits but differ slightly in their nutritional content. Both fresh and dried fruit will provide you with antioxidants and fiber which are beneficial for your health.

Unfortunately, the nutrient content in dried fruit is slightly reduced during the drying process. For example, one serving of dried apples - about ¼ cup contains 52 calories and 12 grams of sugar.

Whereas in a 1 cup serving of fresh apples, there are 65 calories and 13 grams of sugar. Not only that, some of the vitamin and mineral content of fresh fruit will decrease when the fruit is dried.

Drying process

This type of fruit drying process is done by drying it directly in the sun, using a heating machine, or by freezing.

Of the three types of drying, freezing can retain the most fruit nutrients. Meanwhile, drying the sun and air slightly removes the nutrient content in it.

Not only that, after the fruit is dried, there are some that are packaged using sulfus dioxide, which is an artificial antioxidant and anti-bacterial agent. Its function is to prevent the fruit from changing color and to make the fruit more durable or durable.

So, don't be surprised if this type of fruit contains sulful oxidants that are higher than fresh fruit.

For some people who are sensitive to sulfur oxidants, this sulfur oxidant can cause breathing problems, headaches, and even itching. Generally, this condition is more susceptible for people with asthma.

Things that must be considered before consuming dried fruit

Although this type of fruit is quite healthy, you should pay attention to the amount you consume. This is because many dry fruits contain added sweeteners during the manufacturing process.

Here are some things you should pay attention to before consuming this type of fruit.

Always reading food labels is very important, including the label printed on the packaging of dried fruit. Especially if you have diabetes and are on a diet.
Research how to make this fruit, make sure the manufacturing process is free from added sugar and food coloring. Also, make sure that the color of the dried fruit is the natural color of the fruit, not because of the coloring process that is used to attract buyers.
Don't equate this type of fruit as a substitute for fresh fruit. As healthy as this fruit is, the nutritional content of fresh fruit is more. So, don't eat this fruit as a substitute for fresh fruit.

Conclusion

Dried fruit can be a healthy snack as long as you are dieting and losing weight.

It's just that, you have to make sure that the fruit you eat is fresh, naturally dried fruit without any added sweeteners or food coloring. That's why, be careful before buying. Don't be lulled by the advertisements on the market.

It's best to eat these foods as snacks in small amounts. If not, be prepared with all the risks involved. For example, sugar levels rise or even make your diet plan fail completely because you consume too much sugar.

Choosing the right snack and understanding its nutritional content will make you feel innocent though snacking while on a diet.