Fruit Is Bad For You!
As a nutrition coach, I have heard some pretty interesting things. One very common statement I have heard from individuals at our nutrition consultations is that “fruit is bad for you.”
It still surprises me when I hear this.
To clear the air right away, FRUIT IS NOT YOUR ENEMY. Fruit, in fact, has so many incredible health benefits and is packed with delicious nutrients that your body not only wants but NEEDS.
“But fruit has sugar in it. Sugar is bad for you.”
That has been a popular argument from individuals when beginning to re-frame the thought process surrounding fruit.
It is true the fruit contains sugar. The sugar found in fruit is fructose and glucose. Our body NEEDS glucose for energy. In fact, our brain is one of the primary consumers of glucose. Fructose and glucose being naturally occurring in fruits, our body is able to break down the sugars more efficiently to be used for energy. Not only that, but fruits have phenomenal nutritional benefits including being high in fiber, vitamins, and minerals.
“Well some fruits are much higher in sugar than others so I shouldn’t have them if I am trying to lose weight.”
Again. This is true. Some fruits are higher in sugars that others but these fruits still carry significant nutritional benefits. Because of the fiber and micronutrients found in fruit, our body is able to slow digestion and therefore process these sugars slower giving them a lower glycemic index.
Fruit is not going to diminish your ability to lose weight. Consuming more calories than you are expending will diminish your ability to lose weight. If weight loss is your goal, find a plan that incorporates a well balanced diet that allows for variety.
As a nutrition coach, I want to work with you to help you reach your goals and help you to re-frame the way you think about food. It’s time we cancel diet culture and stop believing the lies we are told. If you are ready to make the SHIFT towards food freedom, give us a call or shoot us an email.
Written by: Jackie Giese, Fitness Nutrition Specialist
