In The Opinion Of Certified Dietitians, This Fruit Is The Healthiest Option

Choosing a piece of fruit over an ultra-processed sweet treat is a clear health victory. Fruit is nature’s candy, yet unlike the peanut butter cups and chocolate bars that line checkout aisles, including it in your diet on a daily basis has been scientifically proved to boost your health in a variety of ways.

Unfortunately, most people in the United States do not consume the recommended 1 to 2.5 cups of fruit each day. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, barely one in every ten persons consumes enough fruits and vegetables.

While including any fruit into your diet is good, certified dietitians believe one fruit is the healthiest of all. If you are unsure which fruit to prioritize, this is an excellent choice.

Certified dietitians Elysia Cartlidge, RDN and Kristi Ruth, RDN, CNSC, LDN agree that while all fruits are nutritious, blueberries are the healthiest. “If their bold color doesn’t say enough, blueberries rank high on the list of the healthiest fruits because they are packed with various nutrients—most notably anthocyanins and polyphenols which are potent phytochemicals,” Ruth said.

Cartlidge agrees, stating that anthocyanins in blueberries have been found to lower inflammation in the brain while also supporting memory, cognition, and mood. This makes them a fantastic snack for brain health.

Blueberries are also high in antioxidants, which promote cardiovascular health. According to scientific study, eating blueberries on a daily basis lowers the risk of heart disease, helps you maintain a healthy weight, and lowers your risk of developing type 2 diabetes.

Cartlidge also claims that blueberries are helpful for bowel health. “The phytochemicals found in blueberries also serve as nourishment for beneficial gut bacteria, while their fiber content further enhances their gut-friendly qualities,” she explains, adding that blueberries also contain vitamin C and manganese (both of which support immune health) and are one of the best sources of vitamin K.

With all of these advantages, it’s simple to understand why this little but powerful fruit comes out on top. Other fruits, however, have several nutritional advantages.