Go Ad-Free
logoThe People's Perspective on Medicine

Whole Fruit But Not Juice May Help Ward Off Type 2 Diabetes

Eating fruit but avoiding fruit juice may help people reduce their risk of developing type 2 diabetes. Epidemiologists analyzed data from three large cohort studies involving more than 180,000 people. Detailed dietary questionnaires were collected on a regular basis over several decades from nurses and male health care professionals.

People who consumed grapes or raisins, blueberries, apples, pears or grapefruit at least three times each week were significantly less likely to be diagnosed with type 2 diabetes. Those who drank fruit juice instead, however, had a higher risk of this metabolic disease. The scientists conclude that people should eat a variety of whole fruits and stay away from juice to help prevent the development of diabetes.

[BMJ,  August 29, 2013]

Blueberries were especially beneficial. Since blueberries have the same benefits frozen as fresh, this choice may be more economical than it seems. What’s more, previous analyses have shown that blueberries can help maintain cognitive function and limit the likelihood of developing Parkinson’s disease. Eating blueberries and strawberries on a regular basis also seems to help keep blood pressure under control.

If you would like to learn about more ways to incorporate fruit into your diet, you may be interested in our book, Recipes & Remedies from The People’s Pharmacy. It is full of delicious and easy recipes, many from our radio guest experts, to help you stay healthy.

Rate this article
star-fullstar-emptystar-fullstar-emptystar-fullstar-emptystar-fullstar-emptystar-fullstar-emptystar-fullstar-emptystar-fullstar-emptystar-fullstar-emptystar-fullstar-emptystar-fullstar-empty
5- 1 rating
About the Author
Terry Graedon, PhD, is a medical anthropologist and co-host of The People’s Pharmacy radio show, co-author of The People’s Pharmacy syndicated newspaper columns and numerous books, and co-founder of The People’s Pharmacy website. Terry taught in the Duke University School of Nursing and was an adjunct assistant professor in the Department of Anthropology. She is a Fellow of the Society of Applied Anthropology. Terry is one of the country's leading authorities on the science behind folk remedies..
Tired of the ads on our website?

Now you can browse our website completely ad-free for just $5 / month. Stay up to date on breaking health news and support our work without the distraction of advertisements.

Browse our website ad-free
Join over 150,000 Subscribers at The People's Pharmacy

We're empowering you to make wise decisions about your own health, by providing you with essential health information about both medical and alternative treatment options.