Generally, men and women should consume at least 2 cups (473 ml) of fruit per day as part of a well-balanced diet to stay healthy. For individuals who are on a low-carbohydrate diet or are diabetic, differentiating between high-carb and low-carb fruits can be complicated. Although all fruits are sweetened naturally, some fruits have higher sugar content than others. Generally, dietary fiber lowers the impact of sugar, so fruits that contain high amounts of fiber will be low in carbohydrates. Among the different types of low-carb fruits are berries, apples, pears, grapefruit and peaches.
Berries, such as blueberries, blackberries, raspberries and strawberries, contain low amounts of carbohydrates and high amounts of vitamins, antioxidants and fiber. One cup (237 ml) of raw blueberries contains approximately 4 grams of dietary fiber and 15 grams of sugar. In addition, blueberries contain high amounts of vitamin C and vitamin K. One cup (237 ml) of raw strawberries contains approximately 3 grams of dietary fiber and 7 grams of sugar. Strawberries also contain more than the recommended daily value of vitamin C, which aids in a healthy immune system.
Apples and pears are another wise choice for individuals searching for low-carb fruits. Each contains low amounts of carbohydrates and high amounts of fiber and vitamins. One cup (237 ml) of raw apples, including the peel, contains about 3 grams of dietary fiber and 13 grams of sugar. A cup (237 ml) of raw pears with the skin contains 5 grams of dietary fiber and 15 grams of sugar. The low-carb fruits also contain high amounts of vitamin C and several other vitamins and minerals, including vitamin K, copper and potassium.
Generally, citrus fruits are high in sugar, but grapefruit is one of the exceptions. Grapefruit is high in vitamins and dietary fiber and low in sugar and carbohydrates. One cup (237 ml) of raw, pink or red grapefruit provides about 3 grams of dietary fiber and 0 grams of sugar. Grapefruit contains more than the recommended daily value of vitamin C and high amounts of vitamin A, iron and calcium. To keep the carbohydrate value low, one should resist sprinkling the fruit with sugar.
Peaches and apricots are another choice for individuals who want to consume low-carb fruits. Each contains several vitamins and minerals and is high in dietary fiber. One large peach provides approximately 3 grams of dietary fiber and 15 grams of sugar, along with high amounts of vitamin C, vitamin A, potassium and copper. One cup (237 ml) of apricots contains about 3 grams of dietary fiber and 14 grams of sugar. In addition, apricots contain high amounts of vitamin A, vitamin C and potassium.