What are the Nutritional Facts about Fruits and Vegetables?

Fruits and vegetables are rich in vitamins, minerals, fiber, and antioxidants. Learn nutritional facts, health benefits, and daily intake tips.

Introduction

Fruits and vegetables are essential for a healthy diet. They provide vital nutrients like vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, and dietary fibre. Regular consumption can boost immunity, improve digestion, support heart health, and help maintain body weight. Including a variety of fruits and vegetables in your meals is key to overall wellness.

This article covers nutritional facts about fruits and vegetables, their health benefits, types, and recommended daily intake.

Average Nutritional Facts (Per 100 Grams)

NutrientFruitsVegetables
Calories40–80 kcal20–50 kcal
Carbohydrates10–20 g3–10 g
Dietary Fibre2–4 g2–5 g
Natural Sugar8–15 g1–5 g
Protein0.5–1.5 g1–3 g
Fat0.1–0.5 g0.1–0.5 g
Vitamin C10–60 mg20–80 mg
Vitamin AModerate–HighHigh (beta-carotene)
Potassium150–400 mg200–500 mg
Folate (B9)5–40 mcg20–100 mcg
AntioxidantsHighHigh

Values vary depending on type and preparation.

Key Types and Their Nutrients

Fruits

  • Apple: Fibre, antioxidants
  • Banana: Potassium, energy
  • Orange: Vitamin C, immunity
  • Mango: Vitamin A & C, energy
  • Berries: Low sugar, high antioxidants

Vegetables

  • Spinach: Iron, calcium, vitamin K
  • Carrot: Beta-carotene, vitamin A
  • Broccoli: Vitamin C, fibre, antioxidants
  • Tomato: Lycopene, vitamin C
  • Cabbage: Fibre, vitamin K, antioxidants

Health Benefits of Fruits and Vegetables

1. Boost Immunity

  • Rich in vitamins and antioxidants
  • Helps fight infections

2. Improves Digestion

  • High fibre content prevents constipation
  • Supports gut health

3. Supports Heart Health

  • Potassium helps regulate blood pressure
  • Fibre reduces cholesterol

4. Weight Management

  • Low calorie, high fibre
  • Keeps you full for longer

5. Improves Skin & Eye Health

  • Vitamins A, C, and antioxidants enhance skin glow
  • Beta-carotene supports eye health

Daily Intake Recommendations

  • Fruits: 2–3 servings/day
  • Vegetables: 3–5 servings/day
  • One serving = 1 medium fruit or ½ cup chopped fruit/vegetables
  • Eat a variety of colours for full nutrient intake

Best Ways to Eat Fruits and Vegetables

✔ Fresh and raw (salads, smoothies)
✔ Steamed or lightly cooked vegetables
✔ Seasonal and locally sourced
✔ Combine different colours for antioxidants

❌ Avoid deep frying or overcooking
❌ Avoid excessive fruit juices

Fruits vs Vegetables: Quick Comparison

FeatureFruitsVegetables
SugarModerate–HighLow
FibreModerateHigh
CaloriesModerateLow
Vitamins & MineralsHighVery High
AntioxidantsHighHigh

Final Thoughts

Fruits and vegetables are the foundation of a healthy diet. They provide essential nutrients, keep your digestive system healthy, boost immunity, and protect against lifestyle diseases. Eating a colourful variety every day ensures your body gets the nutrients it needs for overall wellness.

Tip: Include at least half your plate with vegetables and fruits for balanced nutrition.