Last Wednesday we discussed the benefits of eating fruits. Unfortunately many of us opt for fruit juice or fruit drinks instead of the actual whole fruit. You think that you are making a healthy choice but in realty you may be sabotaging your weight loss efforts. 100 % fruit juices are calorie dense, meaning they are concentrated in naturally occurring sugar. Whereas fruit drinks or fruit cocktails contain added sugar or artificial sweeteners. Another disadvantage of fruit juices and fruit drinks is that when whole fruits are processed most of the dietary fiber is lost, thus all the potential benefits of the fruit is lost and you are left drinking empty calories. Empty calories equals weight gain. In addition, excess sugar increases your risk for developing diabetes.
Here is an example that illustrates the above points:
Bottom-line, it is always best to opt for whole fruits instead of fruit juices/fruit drinks. If you are going to have juice, always choose 100% fruit juice with no added sugar and drink only the recommended serving size.
by Marjorie Binette, MD
