So What Do You Get From Dried Fruit?
1. Fiber
Supports regularity and dietary quality
Most dried fruits are good sources of dietary fiber, a short-fall nutrient in U.S. diets. Fiber helps support regular bowel function and contributes to overall diet quality when you replace refined snacks.
Sources: Sullivan & Liu (J Acad Nutr Diet, 2020 review) and related work; observational analyses show higher fiber and potassium intake on days dried fruit is consumed.
(Links: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33127327/ ; https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC7554183/) PubMed+1
2. Potassium
Aids normal fluid balance and healthy blood pressure
Dried fruits typically retain potassium, a nutrient associated with cardiovascular benefits when eaten as part of a healthy dietary pattern.
Source: Sullivan & Liu (2020 review).
(Link: https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC7554183/) PMC
3. Polyphenols & natural plant compounds
Provides antioxidant & cell protective benefits
Drying concentrates certain polyphenols/flavonoids found in fruit and peel. While levels vary by fruit and drying method, these compounds provide antioxidant benefits and help protect cells from oxidative stress.
Source: Narrative/experimental literature on dried fruit composition and drying methods. (Example review & methods paper: https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC9998808/ ; https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC7602416/)
General wellness information only. Not a substitute for personalized medical advice.