Is the Sugar in Raw Fruit OK?

Q: I've been told the sugar in raw fruits, such as pears and apples, is not bad for me. Is that true?

A: Correct. Fruit contains a two-unit sugar called a disaccharide, which is about half glucose and half fructose. But all sources of carbohydrates are converted to glucose in the body for energy.

Fruit -- whether fresh (raw), canned, dried, packaged with no sugar added, or 100 percent fruit juice -- should be part of a healthful eating plan. Fruit provides a good source of energy, vitamins, minerals, and fiber (although juice doesn't provide fiber).

The Dietary Guidelines for Americans recommend 2 cups of fruit per day for most average-size adults. The American Diabetes Association recommends following the Dietary Guidelines for a healthful eating plan. Do keep portion sizes in mind. Serving sizes are: a small piece of whole fruit, half of a large piece of fruit, and about 1/2 cup of canned or packaged fruit.

Madhu Gadia, M.S., R.D., is a certified diabetes educator.