The 10 best low-sugar fruits that protect against chronic disease

All fruits are good for you, there’s no disputing that, but some have a lower sugar content than others and can also pack a powerful nutritional punch.

Dr Sammie Gill, a registered dietitian, says: “Although fruit contains sugar it also comes with all the added benefits you don’t get from processed sugary foods. You get far more bang for your buck from a fruit snack as opposed to a processed sugary food such as a biscuit.

“These extra-value ingredients include antioxidants that protect cells from being damaged, plant chemicals called polyphenols, which have also been shown to be protective against chronic diseases, such as heart disease and Type 2 diabetes. Different fruits contain different types of fibre, some of which are cardio protective whilst others are good for your gut microbiome.” 

“Low-sugar fruits also have a lower glycaemic index score meaning they have less impact on blood sugar levels versus sweeter varieties of fruit, or other food high in sugar. They have a high water content and are a good source of fibre, a combination which is good for maintaining your weight. They may be particularly useful snacks for people following a low-carbohydrate diet,” says Rob Hobson, a registered nutritionist and the author of Unprocess Your Life.

Below, we take a look at the fruits with the lowest sugar content. Note The World Health Organization recommends eating a minimum of 400g of fruit and vegetables a day (five portions of 80g each). The recommended daily sugar allowance for adults is 30g.