We all know that fruits and vegetables are an important part of a healthy diet (whether we follow this rule and eat those healthy fruits and vegetables is another matter altogether). We also know that the right way to eat our veggies is to steam or boil them and eat them in an unaltered state as much as possible. But did you know that there is a correct way to eat your fruits, as well?
For most of us, eating a fruit is like an afterthought. We don’t consciously wonder about eating one, and we are not aware of the right way to eat a fruit so as to derive the maximum benefits. So if you are one of those people who grab a bite of apple instead of dessert, or a banana with the rest of your breakfast, you need to know these basic rules for eating fruits the right and healthy way:
Eat fruits alone, or with other fruits on an empty stomach:
Bananas on toast sound and taste delicious. But if you are interested in getting the maximum health benefits out of your daily fruit intake, you should eat them on an empty stomach without adding other food groups to the mix. Have a fruit bowl, or eat them alone but try and refrain from eating your fruits as part of your meals as much as possible.
This rule is an important one, and it has scientific backing. When we eat fruits, the digestive process in our bodies works faster and different enzymes are used to breakdown the fruit than those used in digesting a normal meal. Besides, the plant sugars in the fruits need time to be absorbed by the body. If you have fruits along with your main meal, the digestive process is not as complete and the resulting indigestion and heartburn can easily ruin your day.
Space out your fruit servings:
There are three main meals in the day. Do not include fruits in these meals, but try to space out your fruit servings throughout the day so that you have a fruit helping at least an hour or so before your next big meal. The best way to eat fruits is, of course, early in the morning on an empty stomach, but if you are too much of an eggs and bacon person, you can aim to have a fruit bowl as a mid-morning snack. Fruits are also great for evening snacks when you have those sudden hunger pangs that will not seem to go away. Instead of rushing for some junk food, snack on a fruit – it is much healthier and will keep your feeling full for longer.
Always remember that you need to let your body digest the last meal you had before you munch on some fruits. This way you get the most of the natural goodness of the fruit while avoiding the problems that can arise from indigestion. Remember these rules the next time you buy a basket of fruits; eating them the right way can make a world of difference to your health.
