A lot of people ask about the best time to eat fruits or when it’s best taken — before or after meals?

Well, there’s no “best” time to eat fruits as we all have different body system. For some, before meals is ideal. For others, after a meal is just fine.

Fruits are good sources of vitamins, minerals, and roughages(fiber). They also contain antioxidants(compounds that help in avoiding cell damage by hindering free radicals in your body)

Benefits of eating fruits before a meal.

• Fruits taken before a meal is effective in controlling weight. Fruit contains low calories, so eating a large volume of fruit before meals is usually filling due to its high fiber and water content, as the stomach can only take up 1quart (0.9 liter) of food. Calories required from meals per day varies depending on the height, body type and weight. However, the recommended amount of calories required per day is 2000 for women and 2500 for men. Eating fruits before meals ensures we don’t have to take up that much calories from meals.

• Have you ever heard someone ask “can we eat fruits after chicken?” Well, the answer depends. Here’s why experts advise to not eat fruits after meat. Meat takes a long time to digest in the body. By a long time, we’re talking 4-6hours, because of the complex molecules that make up its protein and fats. So, eating fruits after meals comprising meat will result in competition for the absorption of vital nutrients.

• Since most fruits contain fiber which helps in bowel movement and rinsing your colon. It’s best taken before meals to help ensure proper absorption and digestion.

All that said, fruits can be taken after meals but should be at least 1-2 hours after the meal. This is because some food take longer time to digest, therefore, avoiding competition of absorption. 

Also, for people with illnesses such as Ulcers, some fruits are better eaten after meals to avoid raising stomach acidity which is harmful to ulcer patients.