What is the right time to eat fruit? Find out!
| May 24, 2019, 17:24 IST
One would think something as simplistic as fruits wouldn’t have any myths or misunderstandings surrounding them. They’re fruits. They are full of rich nutrients and minerals and they’re good for you. But there many communities that promote eating fruits only on empty stomach or not eating them on an empty stomach. Others say they should only be consumed in the evening. Some are completely against consuming them in the night. Confusing, right? You’re not alone! Don’t worry, ahead is a well-researched comprehensive guide that will help you guide busting some common myths surrounding fruits and their consumption.
Myth: Afternoon is the best time to eat fruit
However, there is a theory that explains this reasoning. It says that the idea of eating a high sugar snack in the afternoon can raise blood sugar levels and ‘wake up’ the digestive system during its slump. However, all carbohydrate-containing foods raise blood sugar levels, and the time of day has little effect on this. The digestive system is always prepared to begin operations at any time of day.
Myth: Avoid eating fruit before bed
Bananas, apricots or dates work greatly as a midnight snack because of their high mineral content. They help in easing cramps and aid in relaxation before sleep.
Myth: Eat fruit on an empty stomach
Some people believe that eating fruit on an empty stomach provides greater health benefits. This myth has been popularized mainly through websites and email chains.
The idea is that eating fruit with a meal slows down digestion, meaning that food sits in the stomach for a long time and can rot or ferment. The theory says that this causes gas, bloating, and digestive discomfort.
While it is true that fruit slows down digestion — fruits are high in fiber, which slows the progression of food through the digestive tract — this is not a bad thing. Fiber is an important part of all diets and boosts gut health. Slower digestion also helps a person feel full for longer.
Myth: Afternoon is the best time to eat fruit
However, there is a theory that explains this reasoning. It says that the idea of eating a high sugar snack in the afternoon can raise blood sugar levels and ‘wake up’ the digestive system during its slump. However, all carbohydrate-containing foods raise blood sugar levels, and the time of day has little effect on this. The digestive system is always prepared to begin operations at any time of day.
Myth: Avoid eating fruit before bed
Bananas, apricots or dates work greatly as a midnight snack because of their high mineral content. They help in easing cramps and aid in relaxation before sleep.
Myth: Eat fruit on an empty stomach
Some people believe that eating fruit on an empty stomach provides greater health benefits. This myth has been popularized mainly through websites and email chains.
The idea is that eating fruit with a meal slows down digestion, meaning that food sits in the stomach for a long time and can rot or ferment. The theory says that this causes gas, bloating, and digestive discomfort.
While it is true that fruit slows down digestion — fruits are high in fiber, which slows the progression of food through the digestive tract — this is not a bad thing. Fiber is an important part of all diets and boosts gut health. Slower digestion also helps a person feel full for longer.