The dried fruits can replace fresh ones during winter without compromising health benefits, according to a study conducted by American researchers.
According to details, the research highlighted that fruits, whether fresh or dried, provide essential nutrients such as dietary fibre, potassium, and bioactive compounds that promote heart health.
Numerous studies have previously confirmed that consuming fruits lowers the risk of cardiovascular diseases, whereas a lack of fresh fruits increases this risk.
To explore whether dried fruits can substitute fresh ones, researchers from Pennsylvania State University analysed data from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey conducted in the United States between 2007 and 2016.
The survey covered detailed dietary intake and health information, including body mass index (BMI), waist circumference, and blood pressure.
The researchers focused on 25,590 participants aged over 20 years, who consumed at least a quarter cup of dried fruits daily. They evaluated the participants' dietary quality, nutrient intake, and cardiovascular risk factors using the Healthy Eating Index 2015 and compared these metrics with a control group who did not consume dried fruits.
The analysis revealed that individuals who included dried fruits in their diets exhibited better health markers, such as lower BMI, reduced waist circumference, and improved blood pressure levels, compared to the control group.
Researcher Valerie Sullivan noted that dried fruits could be an excellent dietary supplement when consumed in moderation. She emphasised avoiding added sugars and maintaining smaller portion sizes than fresh fruits due to the absence of water content in dried options.
