Nutritionally, how do fresh fruits compare to dried fruits. Fresh fruits are higher in water content which by the way contributes to hydration and in turn helps with the vitamin C preservation. Fresh fruits also helps you to feel fuller and have lower calorie and sugar per serving. Dried fruits are concentrated. When reducing the water content, it concentrates the fiber, minerals, certain vitamins, notably vitamin A and many phytochemicals, potentially disease fighting substances found in plants. But the sugar and calorie content rise in comparable amounts. By drying the fruits, it destroys the water soluble vitamins such as B and C, as well as certain heat sensitive phytochemicals.
Dried fruits can be a good source of nutrients but are more calorie dense and higher in sugar than fresh fruits. I personally love fresh fruits and can’t wait for the summer to enjoy the fruits of the season such as peaches, plums, cherries and watermelon. And I do eat fruits everyday, all year round. Fruits are healthy for you and they really do give a feeling of satiety. Also, if you’re not an avid water drinker, it’s a great way to replenish hydration. Fruits are an additive to other foods and especially desserts.
Fresh Fruit:
- Higher in water content.
- Lower in calorie and sugar per serving.
- Retains more vitamin C.
Dried Fruits:
- More concentrated nutrients.
- Higher in calorie and sugar.
- May contain added sugar and preservatives.
*Note: 30 grams of dried fruit is equivalent to 80 grams of fresh fruit.
