The Best Time of the Day to Eat Fruit (Backed by Science!)

We’ve all heard the saying, “an apple a day keeps the doctor away,” but does it matter if you eat that one apple every day? You may not have given it much thought before, but surprisingly, there is an ideal time of day to consume these healthy treats for maximum health benefits. So, when is the best time to eat fruit, and does how you eat it make a difference?

While fruits provide many of the essential vitamins and minerals that we need to maintain good health, eating it early in the day packs the most punch. There are several reasons for this. Let’s break down why enjoying fruit during the breakfast hour is ideal:

Why Morning is the Best Time to Eat Fruit

Starting your day off with a serving of fresh fruit will give you a boost of energy. Instead of chugging a cup of caffeinated coffee or grabbing a breakfast sandwich, opt for a fructose and fiber-filled option. Fructose, also called fruit sugar, is a great source of natural, healthy energy. When we eat fruit, the fructose metabolizes into glucose in the liver, giving us much-needed energy.

In addition to being packed with essential vitamins and minerals, fruit is an excellent source of fiber. We need fiber to help our digestive system operate smoothly. If you eat fruit often, you may even notice the difference in how you feel when you eat it.

Should You Eat Your Fruit Alone?

Now don’t get me wrong, I’m not talking about sitting by yourself to enjoy your fruit of choice. I’m talking about eating fruit on its own, without other ingredients or snacks, or in addition to a meal. Having it with just a glass of water or in smoothie form with minimal additional ingredients is a great way to get the most out of it. That’s because fruit digests quickly and easily.

One common myth you might have heard about eating fruit with a meal is that the fruit will actually slow down digestion to the point that the other foods will simply sit in your stomach, causing bloating and indigestion. It is true that the fiber in fruits can slow down the emptying of the stomach, but the benefit to this is that you’ll feel full for longer. That can help you avoid unnecessary snacking and overeating. However, there’s no truth to the idea that eating fruit with a meal will cause discomfort or indigestion.

The Bottom Line

It’s no surprise that fruit is a healthy snack choice that you can enjoy throughout the day. If you need a quick bite, grab an apple, a pear, a banana, or whatever you prefer to give you energy and essential nutrients. If you want to maximize the health benefits that fruits provide, the best time to eat it is in the morning. Enjoy it on its own or in smoothie form with a little water. It’s a healthy way to start the day, and it just may help to keep the doctor away, too.

Hey Joyfreshers, do you think there a best time to eat fruit? Is it good to eat fruit for breakfast? Should you eat fruit at night? Let’s know your thoughts.