Reviewed by Dr.Vijaykumar Kamat & written by Dr. Shivani Desai.

How to Eat Fruit

Many articles have been written about when we should ideally consume our fruit. Many myths are being spread as everyone has a different opinion.

Eating fruits has changed. The simple act of buying fruits, cutting them, and popping them into your mouth is no longer enough. If you want to get the most out of them, timings, fruit types, and combinations should all be taken into consideration.

Let’s first get the facts straight.

How Does the Stomach Digest Fruit

Some nutritionists believe that fruits are best eaten on an empty stomach or along with other fruits, as they contain high amounts of carbohydrates and fluid. Fruits easily pass through the stomach and into the small intestine, and the combination with other foods can cause them to ferment and rot.

The stomach has three main functions. The stomach first stores the liquid and food that has been swallowed. The stomach then mixes the liquid with the food and digestive juice to form chyme. The stomach then empties slowly into the small intestinal tract.

Carbohydrates can be easily digested, but fruits are made of carbohydrates, vitamins, minerals, and fiber. The more fiber you consume, the slower your digestion will be. Fermentation occurs when bacteria are present, but because the stomach pH is high due to the hydrochloric acids, the bacteria cannot reproduce.

Enzymes can Digest Carbohydrates, Proteins, and Fats Simultaneously

It’s also possible that you have heard that fruit combined with other foods can cause the body to not digest carbohydrates.

In fact, the body produces different enzymes to digest proteins, fats, and carbohydrates. These nutrients are then broken down and absorbed in different stages of digestion. We would have not digested a single meal if the claim above was true. Most foods are combinations of nutrients.

Combining Foods in the Right way can Have Synergistic Results

We now know that fruits are good to eat before or after meals. Proper food combinations can optimize the absorption of nutrients and aid digestion. Ayurvedic theory states that every food has three qualities – taste; heating or cooling energy; and a post digestive effect.

E.g., iron is better absorbed when combined with foods rich in vitamin C and vegetables. Bananas and milk can cause phlegm and sinus congestion and allergies.

This is only a guideline, and the effects of food combinations are also dependent on other factors such as your metabolism, your food allergies, your digestive system’s ability to adapt, etc. If you are unsure, it is important to consult your doctor or registered dietitian.

Fruits are one of nature’s most delicious and nutritious foods. The question is not whether to eat them with or without food or when combined with other foods, but rather how to include this food in your diet as much as you can.