Scientists explain the benefits of dried fruit over fresh fruit

21:52 25.11.2020Short URL

Dried fruit has many health benefits and has some advantages over fresh fruit, a recent study shows. The researchers particularly emphasize their important nutrient supply.

Dried fruit is no less beneficial to health than fresh fruit, which it can successfully replace in the winter, according to a statement from Pennsylvania State University. In fact, American scientists found that people who ate dried fruit were generally healthier than those who did not. The results of their work are published in the Journal of the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics.

In-depth analysis

For the purpose of their study, the researchers analyzed data from 25,590 participants in the National Health and Nutrition Survey (NHANES) conducted in the United States between 2007 and 2016. The participants provided information on all foods. they consumed per day, including dried fruit. Data on their cardiometabolic health were also collected.

After the analysis, the researchers determined that the people who consumed dried fruit had better health parameters than the control group, especially in terms of body mass index, waist circumference and systolic blood pressure.

More nutrients

The researchers also found that people who ate nuts also ingested more nutrients, such as carbohydrates, dietary fiber, potassium, and polyunsaturated fats. But they also consume more calories, which is why scientists warn against excessive consumption of nuts, especially those containing sugar.

The study also found that participants tended to eat more fruit in total on days they ate dried fruit than on days they didn’t eat.

Advantages over fresh fruit

Finally, scientists say that “minimally processed” fruit such as dried fruit, but also frozen or canned fruit, have advantages over fresh fruit. There is talk of their long shelf life and their low cost.

“They are available all year round, are of relatively consistent quality and can be stored much longer than fresh. Many are also cheaper per serving than their fresh counterparts, ”explains Kristina Petersen, co-author of the study in the university’s press release.