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Health associations of various fruit forms: solid fruits, juices, and smoothies
The rising prevalence of non-communicable diseases (NCDs) underscores the importance of refined dietary recommendations that differentiate between various forms of fruit consumption. This study explores the associations between solid fruits, fruit juices, and fruit smoothies concerning health outcomes.
A cross-sectional survey of 443 participants collected self-reported dietary, health, and demographic data and categorized individuals into four groups: low fruit consumers, fruit juice consumers, solid fruit consumers, and fruit smoothie consumers.
The findings indicated significant differences in health outcomes among the groups. The fruit smoothies group exhibited the best overall health, characterized by the lowest prevalence of hypertension (18.60%), reduced frequency of mental health challenges (12.79%), and the highest self-rated energy levels. Conversely, the fruit juices group reported the poorest health outcomes, including the highest prevalence of high cholesterol (39.18%) and the lowest self-rated sleep quality. The low fruit consumers had the highest rates of cardiovascular disease (16.17%) and the most physician visits.
Although the study’s reliance on self-reported data and potential confounding factors presents limitations, the results highlight the need to distinguish between types of fruit consumption in dietary guidelines. Fruit smoothies, which retain fiber while enhancing nutrient bioavailability, may provide unique health benefits. Future longitudinal studies are recommended to establish causality and further refine dietary recommendations for public health. [NPID: Fruit, smoothies, juice, mental health, energy, guidelines]
Year: 2026
