A balanced fruit and nut diet is not a specific diet plan.

The U.S. Department of Agriculture recommends including fruits and nuts as part of a well-balanced diet that includes other basic food groups. It is recommended to consume at least four servings of fruits daily. In addition, eat four to five servings in 1 oz. portions of nuts a week. Including fruits and nuts in your diet ensures you are getting a sufficient amount of protein, fiber, vitamins and minerals.

Function of Fiber

A fruit and nut diet provides you with a significant amount of dietary fiber, which is a carbohydrate that cannot be digested by enzymes in your intestinal tract. According to “The Wellness Encyclopedia of Food and Nutrition,” this gives you a feeling of fullness, leaving less room for high-fat or high-calorie foods. In “The Nutrition Bible,” a high-fiber diet has been linked to the prevention or control of many diseases and disorders. Examples include constipation, diverticulitis, irritable bowel syndrome, diabetes, colon cancer and heart disease.

Fruits and nuts contain nutrients such as vitamins A, C and E that act as powerful antioxidants. According to the “Nutrition Bible,” antioxidants function by destroying free radicals that cause premature aging, cancer and cataracts. Vitamin A can be found in orange and yellow fruits such as apricots, cantaloupes, peaches, nectarines and mangoes. Citrus fruits, berries, melons, kiwi and papaya are good sources of vitamin C. Vitamin E is found in most nuts such as almonds, Brazil nuts, hazelnuts, peanuts, pine nuts, pistachios and walnuts. Make sure that you are not allergic to peanuts because this can cause a serious allergic reaction.
Amino Acids

Nuts are a good source of plant-based protein, which is made up of building blocks called amino acids that are used for different activities in your body. Nuts contain two essential amino acids called arginine and tryptophan. According to Thehealthierlife.co.uk, arginine may help boost your immune system and lower blood cholesterol levels. Tryptophan produces the hormone serotonin in your brain. Serotonin might help relieve depression and other anxiety disorders.
High Water Content

High-water-content foods such as fruits can be a positive health benefit in your diet. Sciencedaily.com says eating water-rich foods can help stave of hunger and keep you feeling fuller longer. High-water-content foods are lower in calories, which make them ideal for those trying to lose weight. Examples of fruits with high water content include oranges, berries, watermelons, cantaloupes, apples and pears. Keep in mind that dried fruits such as raisins and currants are more calorie-dense with sugars.
Benefits of Fat

Monitor your portion sizes of nuts because they are high in calories and fat. The fat content is mostly “healthy” monounsaturated fat. In “The Food Bible,” author Judith Wills says monounsaturated fats are beneficial because they help lower blood cholesterol and stabilize blood sugar levels. According to Wills, the fat found in nuts may also decrease your risk of heart disease, obesity and cancer. In addition, a small amount of fat is necessary in your diet to better absorb nutrients.