Most health experts claim how important eating fresh fruits and vegetables is to a healthy diet. They are a source of essential vitamins, minerals, fiber and antioxidants that promote a healthy body. According to the United States Department of Agriculture, at least half of your plate at mealtimes should be fruits and vegetables. It is believed that vegetables can be consumed at any time, but considering the high amount of sugar in fruits, it is said that fruits should be consumed at fixed times. So, despite all the recognized health benefits of eating fruits, why do people suggest that fruits should not be eaten at certain times?
Fruits are superfoods that are nature’s powerful sources of essential nutrients; However, it is important to know that you cannot eat fruits at any time of the day. Especially you should avoid eating them immediately after eating food. One of the most common arguments for this statement is that sugar plus carbohydrates plus bacteria can result in the fermentation of food, which can hinder your digestive system. Macrobiotic coach and nutritionist, Shilpa Arora ND agrees, “Fruits are a meal in themselves. They should never be combined with the main meal. If fruits are digested with heavy proteins the sugar present in them gets fermented. “, which usually takes time for digestion processes.” Dr Zamrud Patel, consultant dietitian, Global Hospitals Mumbai, suggests, “Eating fruit immediately after a meal is not a good idea, as it does not get digested properly. The nutrients also do not get absorbed properly. There should be a gap of at least 30 minutes between meals and fruit snacks.”
Also read: How to make a great fruit chaat
Fruits are superfoods that are nature’s powerful sources of essential nutrients.
So when should one ideally eat fruits?
According to Dr. Patel, “Fruits should be eaten in the morning after a glass of water. If you eat fruits on an empty stomach, it will play a major role in detoxifying your system, giving you plenty of energy for weight loss.” And for other life activities Ideally, fruits should be eaten first thing in the morning, between breakfast and lunch and as a snack in the evening.
Eating a few pieces of fruit at least half an hour before meals can help control overeating during lunch. Fruits allow you to fill your stomach with something low-calorie before a meal. Additionally, eating fruits before meals increases fiber intake as most fruits contain fiber. Therefore, when you eat fiber, you feel full for a longer time and this also delays your digestion process. High-fiber fruits include apples, pears, bananas and raspberries.
Eating a few pieces of fruit at least half an hour before meals can help control overeating
One should avoid eating fruits before sleeping at night as the sugar present in fruits increases the energy levels thus keeping you alert and awake. Make sure you eat fruits at least two to three hours before sleeping.
Fruits are definitely the healthiest foods; However, it is good to ensure their consumption at the right time.
Have a ‘fruit-loving’ day!
