The Best and Worst Fruits by Nutritional Value

The Best and Worst Fruits by Nutritional Value

A new evaluation by dietitian Nicola Ludlam-Raine reveals that some popular breakfast fruits may not be the healthiest. She ranked 18 fruits on a 5-point scale based on fiber, vitamin, mineral content, and natural sugars. While whole fruit is healthy, she noted some should be eaten in moderation due to high sugar.


Fruits like watermelon and cantaloupe scored lowest (1/5) for their low fiber and high water content. Pineapple followed (2/5) due to acidity and sugar, despite its vitamin C and digestive enzyme bromelain. Bananas and grapes scored 3/5 due to high sugar but good levels of potassium and fiber.


Top-scoring fruits (5/5) include berries, kiwis, and oranges—rich in antioxidants and fiber. Apples, pears, grapefruit, and mangoes received a solid 4/5. The results suggest that breakfast fruit choices should be reconsidered.