Dietitians' 2 fruits to help lose weight - and the ‘internal obstruction’ risks that come with them

Person eating fruit
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As the weather shifts into a colder mood, many are starting to change their diets to fit with their body’s needs in the winter months as well as what’s currently in season. However, MedGenius spoke to dietitian Trista Best, from Balance One Supplements, and nutritionist Jacek Szymanowski, from Torokhtiy, who delved into which fruits Brits are most likely overlooking that could be the key to their health goals like weight loss.

Among the lesser-known fruits the pair explored, Dragon Fruit and Passion were their top suggestions to help control and lose weight as both are low in calories but offer a nice sweet pick-me-up if needed. Additionally, Dragon Fruits hold stores of vitamin C, fibre and antioxidants which means it helps boost immune health and digestion, that could be vital when the colder temperatures settle in and the carb-heavy festive food arrives.

Passion Fruit also holds a fair amount of vitamins A and C, which can help support the immune system and bolster your skin’s health, Jacek noted. Trista pointed out, however, that every weight loss tool has a potential downside.

For Passion Fruit specifically this can sound a bit daunting as she warned: “The seeds can cause intestinal obstruction if consumed in large quantities, particularly in children.” Similarly, eating too much Dragon Fruit also poses some health issues ranging from mild digestive problems to diarrhoea.

Some other lesser-known fruits the pair were keen to highlight included Jackfruit, which Jacek pointed out has high vitamin C, potassium and fibre content but can cause allergic reactions when eaten in large amounts. Durian fruits, known for their smell, can also be risky if you eat too much of it as it could lead to weight gain due to its high calorie and fat content.

Durians are still incredibly beneficial fruits when eaten in moderation through as it can be “a good source of potassium and helps with digestion”, Jacek added. Much like Kumquats that are “loaded” with vitamin C and fibre.

The nutritionist particularly advised eating the fruit whole as the peel “provides a unique blend of antioxidants”. Trista warned of the acid reflux and digestive discomfort the fruit can cause due to its high acidity levels.