Lowest Calorie Fruits: Five to Enjoy

Fruits add a touch of sweetness without a lot of calories. Not only that, but they’re a great source of vitamins, minerals, and phytonutrients. Some fruits are high in natural sugars, but still low in calories – although some are lower than others. If you’re trying to take off a few pounds, here are some of the lowest calorie fruits you can enjoy without guilt.

Lowest calorie fruits: Apricots

A single apricot has only seventeen calories and is a rich source of beta-carotene to help prevent macular degeneration of the eyes. Beta carotene is converted to vitamin A in the body – a strong anti-oxidant vitamin that helps to enhance the immune system. It’s also a good source of vitamin C – another antioxidant vitamin that’s important for healthy skin and joints. Add diced apricots to cereals and salads for a big burst of flavor.

Lowest calorie fruits: Watermelon

A full cup of diced watermelon has only 47 calories and is one of the only fruits to contain heart-healthy lycopenes – compounds that may lower the risk of certain types of cancer. Like apricots, watermelon is a great source of vitamin A and C to reduce inflammation and keep joints, skin, and the immune system healthy. It’s also a tasty treat on a hot summer day.

Lowest calorie fruits: Strawberries

One medium strawberry has only four calories and is chock full of anthyocyanins and phenols to reduce inflammation and lower the risk of cancer and heart disease. They’re also a good source of fiber and vitamin C. Strawberries are a particularly good choice for diabetics since they’re so low in sugar. Try adding a few colorful slices of strawberry to a salad for added sweetness and visual appeal.

Lowest calorie fruits: Apple

A small apple has only 77 calories, but it’s one of the most filling and satisfying fruits around because of its high fiber and pectin content. Apples are full of antioxidants and extracts from apples have been shown to reduce the risk of breast cancer in mice. With their high concentration of flavonoids, fiber, and vitamin C, they’re also heart healthy. Whoever said “an apple a day” was certainly on the right track.

Lowest calorie fruits: Papaya

One small papaya has only 59 calories and is a fantastic source of vitamin A and vitamin C. Papaya also contains two enzymes called papain and chymo papain that help to reduce inflammation. The carotenoids found in papaya help to protect the eyes from macular degeneration and keep the immune system healthy. Plus, most people find its naturally sweet taste very satisfying on salads, in cereal, or as part of a smoothie.

Enjoy these low calorie fruits as a substitute for dessert. Not only will you be reducing how many calories you take in, you’ll also get the marvelous healthy benefits of the vitamins and antioxidants they offer.

References:

http://www.nutritiondata.com
http://vivo.cornell.edu/individual/vivo/Applescouldhelpreducetheriskofbreastcancer