If you love fruit, but are wary of eating it because you’ve heard that it is high in sugar, then it’s worth knowing that not all sugar is created equal. Here’s a look at the difference between natural sugar that is found in fruit, and added or “free” sugars, and how our exotic fruit boxes can help to support a healthy balanced diet.
What is meant by “free sugars”?
Free sugars are those sugars added to foods and drinks during the manufacturing process, or even by yourself when you are cooking and baking at home. They include granulated or caster sugar, honey, and syrups that are often added to cakes, biscuits and desserts.
They also include sugars that are hidden in processed foods, such as sauces, baked beans, and even bread. These might be listed as corn syrup, glucose or fructose on the ingredients.
This type of sugar is easily absorbed by the body, which is why they can cause that addictive dopamine hit as the blood glucose spikes, followed by a crash. The sugar that is not used up as energy is then stored as fat, which can contribute to weight gain, insulin resistance, and inflammation.
Why is fruit sugar different?
Whole fruit contains natural sugars, which are bound up within the cells of the fruit, rather than “free.” Fruit also contains fibre and water, which slow down the absorption of the sugar, preventing spikes. It also contains nutrients that support your energy levels, metabolism, and immune system.
Exotic fruits that support a low-sugar diet
If you are managing your weight or blood sugar levels, exotic fruits are an excellent way to enjoy a taste of sweetness while maintaining your goals. Some fruits have a lower sugar content or lower glycaemic index (GI) than others, such as starfruit, guava, tamarillo and passionfruit.