Why You Should Think Twice Before Having Fruit For Breakfast

Fruit is a staple of any healthy diet. Bright, naturally sweet, and delicious. It's nature's candy! That's why it may come as a surprise to hear that biting into a crisp green apple, or downing a glass of freshly squeezed OJ first thing in the morning may not be as healthy as one would assume. According to LIVESTRONG, people who have been diagnosed with diabetes or prediabetes should avoid foods high in carbohydrates, like fruit, right after waking up. It is also not the best idea for those whose stomachs are extra sensitive to acid.

Fruits in the A.M. may be harmful for diabetics because they experience something in the morning called the "dawn phenomenon," states LIVESTRONG. This is basically a catchy term to describe their often high blood sugar levels in the morning. And because diabetics' blood sugar levels are commonly high in the morning, eating fruits high in carbohydrates could push these levels even higher. For prediabetics, the Cleveland Clinic claims sugar is the first thing that needs to be removed from breakfast. And even though fruit is considered healthy, a lot of varieties are high in sugar which is exactly what a prediabetic should avoid starting their day with. 

We know that tart red grapefruit can deliver the invigorating kick you are craving to help you wake up. But unfortunately, citrus fruits can wreak havoc on an empty stomach, claims NDTV Food. Citrus fruits commonly eaten at breakfast, such as grapefruit, oranges, and berries, are high in acidity and when eaten on an empty stomach, could easily lead to some painful irritation.

In addition to waking up from a deep slumber, your organs, more specifically your pancreas, has also been taking a rest and needs some time to maximize its functions. Clinical Nutritionist Rupali Datta shares with NDTV Food that you shouldn't ingest a tall glass of fruit juice first thing in the morning. The fructose from both the natural and added sugars can put an extra overload on both your pancreas and liver. She goes on to recommend avoiding overly sweet foods like smoothies and breakfast desserts as the first things you eat.

We know now that fruits high in carbohydrates and acidity may not be the best breakfast option. LIVESTRONG also recommends avoiding both dried and canned fruits as they likely contain even more sugar than their natural forms. If you absolutely must enjoy nature's candy right after waking up, low sugar and low carbohydrate options may be your best bet: avocados, watermelon, and peaches fit that bill.