TK Sanders
While there’s no such thing as an “unhealthy” fruit, certain fruits low in sugar can provide more metabolic benefit without affecting blood sugar as much as others. If you’re concerned with your sugar intake — diabetics, dieters, etc. — then it’s good to know that all fruits are not created equal. These low-sugar fruits will satisfy your sweet tooth and provide both fiber and micronutrients without dumping lots of unneeded sugar into your system.
Before we dive in, there’s one more important point to consider: when taking sugar into consideration, it’s always best to eat the fruit in its natural form, rather than juicing it. In the same vein, it’s always best to eat fruits with other foods with varying macronutrient profiles (proteins and fats) so the fruit isn’t ingested as a “naked carb.”
To the fruits!
Strawberries
Sugar content: 7 grams per cup
For comparison’s sake, a 12 oz can of Coca Cola contains 39 grams of sugar. Strawberries can raise good cholesterol, reduce blood pressure, and raise vitamin C levels.
Raspberries
Sugar content: 5 grams per cup
You really can’t go wrong with any berries, but raspberries contain the lowest amount of sugar in the entire family of fruits.
Grapefruit
Sugar content: 18 grams grapefruit
Grapefruits are tangy more than sweet, so not everyone likes them equally. But grapefruit can positively affect insulin levels, so they really pay for themselves every time you eat one.
Kiwis
Sugar content: 6 grams per kiwi
Technically considered a berry by scientific standards, the kiwi boasts just slightly more sugar than its cousin the raspberry. Kiwis also pack a powerful amount of vitamin E, which helps the body in many ways, including skin protection.
Avocado
Sugar content: 1 gram per avocado
Yes, avocados are fruits, seeing as they have a seed within. If you’ve ever heard them described as super foods, this is one reason why. Low sugar, filling, high in healthy fat, versatile in the kitchen — what’s not to love about the beloved avocado?
Cucumbers
Sugar content: 2 grams per cucumber
Yep, another “fruit” you didn’t see coming on the list. Considering the size of a cucumber, the amount of sugar inside is basically negligible. Cucumbers also contain magnesium, potassium and Vitamin K, which all play an important role in the cardiovascular system. Shred some in a grater and add to yogurt for a homemade Tzatziki sauce you’ll love.
