Is There Really A Best Time Of Day To Eat Fruit?

Many people don't eat enough fruit, so it's never a bad idea to grab an apple or banana during the day. However, some information online may have you believe that you should only eat fruit at certain times of the day. This isn't true. When you eat a piece of fruit will not change the health benefits it offers (via Healthline). One common myth states that it's best to eat fruit on an empty stomach because it can cause other food in the stomach to sit and ferment. While the fiber in fruit can slow digestion, it doesn't cause food to ferment in the stomach.

Another myth claims that it's best to eat fruit in the morning to raise your blood sugar levels and give you energy as soon as you wake up. While there's nothing wrong with eating fruit in the morning, this practice won't offer any additional health benefits. Plus, you'll get more sustained energy if you pair your fruit with healthy fats and protein. Along those lines, there is also no downside to eating fruit in the evening. Calories are calories, and they won't affect your body differently depending on the time of day. If you want to enjoy a piece of fruit, go ahead and eat it whenever you want.

Fruit is extremely important for your health. According to the CDC, adults should consume about two cups of fruit each day. Fruit is packed with important vitamins and minerals, including vitamin C, potassium, folate, and many more (via Healthline). Most fruits contain antioxidants as well, which help fight against free radicals in the body and can protect against many diseases. Many types of fruit have a high water content and can help you stay adequately hydrated. Others boast plenty of fiber, which is essential for digestive health. Fiber also helps with cholesterol levels and can aid in weight loss.

It is easy to add more fruits and vegetables to your diet. Eating small amounts during meals can make the recommended two servings add up quickly (via American Heart Association). For breakfast, add some fresh fruit slices to your cereal or oatmeal. For lunch, have a fruit salad with the rest of your meal. And after dinner, opt for fresh or frozen fruit instead of sugary desserts.