As we learn more about the health benefits of a plant-based menu, many people are ditching the Standard American Diet and choosing healthy plant ingredients instead of meat. The vegan diet is focused on foods made from plants only, and with the right approach, you can meet all your dietary needs through these healthy ingredients.
Fresh Fruit vs. Dried Fruit
Dried fruit on a plant-based diet is a great way to increase your consumption of antioxidants, and also get a variety of vitamins and minerals that are needed for overall health. Are dried fruits vegan? Yes! They come from plants such as trees or bushes.
Even though dried fruit and fresh fruit originate from the same ingredient, there are a few distinct differences you need to know:
- Convenience: One of the main benefits of dried fruit is that it has a longer shelf life. If you are looking for convenient vegan snacks that don’t require refrigeration, then dried fruit can be a great option.
- Glycemic Index: When fruit is dried, it means that you are consuming a higher sugar content in each bite of food. Even though the sugar is coming from a natural source, it’s smart to limit the amount of dried fruit you are eating if your goal is to manage blood sugar levels. One solution is to pair dried fruit with nuts and seeds in a trail mix.
- Smaller Package: Dried fruit has all of the same nutrients as the fresh fruit, but it comes in a smaller package. You still get the benefits of the fiber, minerals, and vitamins that are available from the fresh source.
Ultimately, dried fruit and fresh fruit are both great vegan snacks. The main difference between the two is that dried fruits are concentrated since the water has been removed. And, with the water removed, dried fruit can have some great bebfits added to it – like probiotic!
Healthy Vegan Snack Mixes
As you are considering your options for vegan snacks, look for your favorite mix of dried fruit, nuts, and seeds from Nature’s Garden. These convenient snack packs offer a great way to stick to your diet plans when the mid-afternoon hunger sets in. Plus, dried fruit is easy to take with you on a busy day if you need something to throw in your bag.