The 17 Healthiest Fruits To Eat, According to the Pros

Time to stock up on strawberries, pineapples, and more.

Fact checked by Haley MadesMedically reviewed by Kristy Del Coro, MS, RDN, LDN

Fruit is often considered a healthy snack. And for good reason. So many varieties of fruit offer a range of all-natural vitamins, minerals, fiber, and antioxidants, so you can benefit from fruit’s nutritional content and its deliciousness. So, which fruits are the healthiest to eat? We asked doctors, dietitians, and health experts weigh in on the healthiest fruits to eat, in all colors of the rainbow. Here’s what to stock up on for snack time and beyond.

Meet the Expert

• Amy Gorin, MS, RDN, is the owner of Plant Based with Amy.

• Mackenzie Burgess, RDN, is a registered dietitian and recipe developer at Cheerful Choices.

• Breanna Guan, MD, is a neuropathic practitioner and women's health expert.

• Kacie Barnes, MCN, RDN, LD, is a registered dietitian nutritionist and founder of Mama Knows Nutrition.

• Amy Shapiro MS, RD, CDN, is a registered dietitian, nutritionist, and founder and director of Real Nutrition.

Avocados

“Avocados are continuing to grow in popularity and are seen in everything from smoothies to freeze-dried snack avocados,” says registered dietitian nutritionist Amy Gorin. Americans have now upped our avocado consumption to nearly 8 and a half pounds per person, per year! “I love to recommend these for heart health since eating potassium-rich foods such as avocado can help decrease the effects of sodium.” Avocados can be sliced, spread, or smashed on toast, but are also a great add-in to creamy smoothies, salad dressings, and more. “Along with being delicious, avocados are packed with healthy fats, fiber, and antioxidants,” adds registered dietitian nutritionist Mackenzie Burgess. "Research has shown avocados can help support a healthy heart and immune system.” 

Blueberries

Blueberries are easy to snack on, and so healthy to eat. “A one-cup serving of blueberries provides four grams of beneficial fiber, alongside essential nutrients like manganese, vitamin C, and vitamin K, as well as anthocyanins—a type of phytonutrient,” says Burgess. “There’s some pretty exciting research with blueberries too. A new study published in Food & Function found that enjoying the equivalent of one cup of fresh blueberries a day may improve endothelial function. This helps keep our blood vessels running smoothly, and, therefore, important for overall heart health.”

Apples

Don’t underestimate the humble apple! “Apples are high in fiber and beneficial polyphenols, which research shows may help lower cholesterol and support a healthy heart. I like to also give my brain a boost by keeping [natural] applesauce in the pantry,” says Burgess. “These portable pouches are filled with all the nutrients of a whole apple, alongside added brain-supporting nutrients like omega-3s (DHA and EPA) and choline.”

Raspberries

Neuropathic practitioner Dr. Brenna Guan dubs raspberries the best fruit for skin and hormone health. “Full of vitamin C, these berries can help support collagen production and protect against aging skin by quenching free radicals and stopping oxidative stress and damage,” she says. “Ellagic acid is the main polyphenol in raspberries, which helps reduce the negative impacts of toxic estrogens, namely 4-hydroxy-17ß-estradiol, 4E2, which is associated with estrogen-related cancers.”

Bananas

If you’re an active person, Guan recommends bananas. “Bananas are high-glycemic fruits,” she says. Their naturally perfect packaging makes them easy to eat on the go, for both children and athletes. “High in carbohydrates, bananas provide a quick source of energy. They are also rich in potassium for heart health and alkalinity. Take them to the gym or pack ‘em for a road trip.” And for parents who always want a healthy snack on hand, bananas are the perfect solution.

Related: 9 Ways to Use Ripe Bananas That Don't Involve Banana Bread

Lemons

Pucker up because lemons are your new healthy fruit friend. “Lemon is an excellent choice for boosting health and immunity,” Guan says. “Start your day with this vitamin C-rich juice that won't impact your blood sugar. Known as a cleansing fruit, lemon reduces inflammation and supplies many benefits, including stimulating digestion. Mix [lemon juice] with warm water and ginger to help ward off seasonal illness.” Lemons also make an excellent garnish and addition to seafood recipes, salads, pastas, and more. Use the lemon zest and juice to make the most out of every lemon.

Watermelons