Dried fruits can be a great substitute for fresh fruit
It’s no secret that fruit is a key component of a healthy diet. Contrary to popular belief, you don’t always have to choose fresh fruit to get the most benefits.
Martha Stewart writes that dried fruit contains essential nutrients, making it a worthy addition to the diet. Nutritionists have revealed which dried fruits are best to eat.
Dried strawberries
It may not be the first dried fruit you think of, but dried strawberries are rich in antioxidants and vitamin C.
“Antioxidants and vitamin C are important for our immune system,” explains nutritionist Nicole Roach.
Prunes
“Prunes, or dried plums, are a nutritional powerhouse,” says nutritionist Olivia Mathisen-Holloman, RDN, CD. “They have more antioxidants than blueberries, blackberries and raspberries, so they’re great for protecting healthy cells.”
Prunes also support gut function and bone health thanks to fibre and vitamin K, respectively.
Dates are worth adding to your diet. For starters, they are high in antioxidants and fibre, according to Roach. This is good for overall health, as antioxidants protect cells and fibre keeps the gut working. Dates also have anti-inflammatory properties, making them useful for reducing the risk of a number of diseases.
Sultanas
Sultanas, or dried grapes, are another one of the best dried fruits to consume.
“Raisins have a surprisingly rich nutritional profile,” shares Mathisen-Holloman.
It’s high in fibre, which is beneficial for the digestive system, heart health and diabetes risk. Sultanas also contain antioxidants and essential minerals including iron and magnesium.
apricots
“Apricots are another superstar in the dried fruit world,” notes Mathisen-Holloman.
apricots are rich in gut-healthy fibre and disease-fighting antioxidants, including beta-carotene, she adds. Beta-carotene is also converted in the body into vitamin A, which supports healthy vision and immune function.
Dried mango
If you want to enjoy the sweet flavour of mangoes in the off-season, try dried mango, says Roach. It’s especially high in vitamin C, which is important for immune function, she adds. Dried mango is also a source of fibre, which supports digestion and gut health.
