What Happens To Your Body When You Don't Eat Fruit

Even though many adults don't get the recommended two servings of fruit per day, most people eat fruit fairly often. But what happens if you don't eat it at all? Here's how your body would react.

Even though many fruits are high in sugar, this food group is extremely important for health. The sugar in fruit is known as fructose. Fructose is not healthy in large quantities, but it is difficult to eat the large amount of fructose that would cause an issue (via Healthline). Many fruits contain a lot of water and can help you stay hydrated. They also boast plenty of fiber, which is necessary for digestive health. Fiber can also help you maintain healthy cholesterol levels and assist with weight loss.

Fruits are also an important source of many vitamins and minerals. Some of these include vitamin C, potassium, and folate, which are prominent in many fruits. Most contain antioxidants as well, which help to fight against free radicals in the body.

Because fruits are such a good source of many vitamins and minerals, your risk of developing a vitamin or mineral deficiency is much higher if you don't eat them (via Taste of Home). You can get these nutrients from other foods or supplements, but it would be much harder than just eating fruit.

Your digestion may also suffer. "Fruits and vegetables contain cellulose, which increases stool weight, eases passage and reduces transit time," Laura Moore, a registered dietitian at the University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston School of Public Health, told Taste of Home.

Other side effects of not eating fruit include an increased risk of developing cancer, weight gain, a higher likelihood of developing diabetes, increased blood pressure, and a greater risk of heart disease. Long story short? Eat your fruit. Aim for two to five servings per day. You can incorporate fruits into smoothies, salads, oatmeal, or desserts. Many are sweet enough to enjoy plain as well.