Why canned fruits are falling short: The hidden dangers of high sugar content

Fruits are an essential element of a healthy diet. They are a source of vitamins, minerals, and fiber. Recommendations suggest consuming at least five servings of vegetables and fruits daily. However, not all fruits are created equal, particularly those found in cans, which often contain more sugar than health benefits.

Fruits are widely regarded as a healthy and valuable snack, but not all can be lumped together. Although many people reach for them with a healthy lifestyle, some fruits can surprise with their high sugar content, making excessive consumption potentially harmful. This is particularly true for processed fruits. It is worth considering which fruits can cause a rapid spike in blood sugar levels and how this affects our health.

The main problem with canned fruits is the sugary syrup in which they are often stored. This sweet liquid makes the fruits more calorific and less beneficial for health. Excessive sugar consumption can lead to multiple health problems, such as:

• Obesity: Sugar contributes to weight gain because it supplies a lot of energy that is not burned off.
• Diabetes: Excess sugar in the blood can lead to type 2 diabetes.
• Heart diseases: High blood sugar levels increase the risk of heart diseases.
• Fatty liver: Regular consumption of large amounts of sugar can lead to fatty liver disease.

Canned fruits are less valuable than fresh ones primarily because of:

• Sugar content: The sugary syrup significantly increases the sugar content in the product.
• Loss of vitamins and minerals: The preservation process can cause some vitamins and minerals contained in the fruits to be lost.
• Lack of fiber: Canned fruits often have less fiber than fresh fruits, which can affect the feeling of fullness and digestive system function.

If you do not have access to fresh fruits, you can opt for:

• Frozen fruits: They are just as healthy as fresh and do not contain added sugar.
• Dried fruits: They contain more sugar than fresh fruits but are a good source of fibre. Choose dried fruits without added sugar.
• Homemade compote: You can make your compote from your favourite fruits, controlling added sugar.

Fruits are essential to a healthy diet, but it is worth choosing fresh or frozen ones. Canned fruits, especially those in syrup, are less valuable and can contribute to many health problems. Pay attention to labels and choose products with the least added sugar.