Whole Fruits and Fruit Fiber Emerging Health Effects

Area of Science:

• Nutrition Science
• Public Health

Background:

• Most Western populations consume insufficient whole fruits and dietary fiber.
• Current intake is approximately half of recommended levels, with less than 10% meeting requirements.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the extensive health benefits associated with adequate whole fruit and fruit fiber consumption.
• To examine these benefits throughout the human lifecycle.

Main Methods:

• This is a narrative review article.
• It synthesizes existing evidence on whole fruit and dietary fiber health impacts.

Main Results:

• Adequate intake supports gastrointestinal health (constipation, IBS, IBD, diverticular disease).
• Benefits include weight management, reduced risk of cardiovascular disease, type 2 diabetes, metabolic syndrome, and certain cancers (colorectal, lung).
• Further advantages encompass improved aging, reduced asthma/COPD severity, enhanced psychological well-being, higher bone density, and potential attenuation of autism spectrum disorder severity.

Conclusions:

• Low whole fruit intake poses a significant global health threat.
• Emerging research underscores the critical role of whole fruits and fiber in maintaining health and preventing disease.