April has just begun and it already feels like summer is at its peak. In this scorching heat, it is important to stay hydrated and nourished with the right foods. While fruits are often enjoyed because of their natural sweetness, some varieties stand out due to their low sugar levels and numerous health benefits. Even if it's natural or added sugars, our bodies process it in a similar way. As per Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, the American Heart Association recommends no more than 100 calories per day (24 grams) for adult women and 150 calories (36 grams) of sugar for men. If so is the case, why not cut down on any kinds of additional sugar we feel is extra for our body? If you are keeping a tab on your sugar intake and also love fruits, then this article is for you. Read on to know 5 low-sugar fruits you must consume for a healthy summer.
Also Read: Should You Eat Fruits Before Or After A Meal?
Watermelon can keep your body hydrated during high summer heat.
Photo Credit: iStock
5 Low-Sugar Fruits You Can Consume For A Healthy Summer
1. Watermelon
Nothing screams summer like a big bowl of juicy watermelon. As per the official website of the US Department of Agriculture, 100 grams of watermelon contains 6.2 grams of natural sugar. In fact, watermelon is one of the lower-sugar fruits available in the market. Despite its natural sweetness, it has a relatively low glycemic index, making it perfect for people watching their sugar intake. Packed with vitamins A, and C and antioxidants, watermelon helps in keeping your body hydrated and cool during the scorching heat.
2. Guava
A nutrient-rich tropical delight, guava is low in sugar and high in fibre, vitamins and minerals. According to USDA, 100 grams of guava contains 8.92 grams of natural sugar. Guavas are rich in vitamin C and have four times the amount found in oranges. With its unique flavour and nutritional profile, guava helps boost immunity and support healthy digestion.
3. Papaya
Smooth and delicious, papaya is low in sugar and loaded with essential nutrients like vitamins A, C, and E. As per USDA's official website, 100 grams of raw papaya contains 7.82 grams of natural sugar. Papaya is also known for its digestive enzyme, papain, which helps support healthy digestion. You can enjoy papaya in a fruit chaat, in smoothies, or as a whole.
Muskmelon, which is low in sugar, has a unique taste.
Photo Credit: iStock
4. Muskmelon
Sweet and juicy, muskmelon is one of the most popular fruits in summer. According to the official website of USDA, every 100-gram serving of muskmelon, also known as cantaloupe, contains 7.86 grams of natural sugars. It is high in water content and has a unique taste. Frequent consumption of muskmelon can help in promoting healthy skin and heart health. What's more, muskmelon is low in calories, making it a perfect guilt-free snacking option!
5. Berries
Berries are one of those fruits that have one of the lowest sugar levels than many others. As per USDA, one cup (144 grams) of raw raspberries contains 5 grams of sugar, while strawberries and blackberries contain 7 grams each. Berries are rich in fibre, vitamins and polyphenols that can prove beneficial for your body. Enjoy the goodness of berries as a mid-day snack or add frozen berries to your plain yoghurt.
Also Read: Eat These 7 Calcium-Rich Fruits To Ensure Healthy Bones And Teeth
Do you like your fruits in chopped or juice form? Let us know in the comments below!