10 surprising fruits you should never eat on an empty stomach
Story by Jane AISO
We’ve all been told that fruits are the healthiest snacks, packed with vitamins and minerals to keep our bodies nourished. But did you know that not all fruits are suitable to eat first thing in the morning? While fruits are undoubtedly nutritious, some can cause discomfort when eaten on an empty stomach. Here’s a list of ten fruits that might surprise you with their hidden effects.
1. Papaya
Often hailed as a superfood, papaya can cause stomach discomfort when eaten on an empty stomach due to its high fibre content. This may lead to an upset stomach or bloating for some.
2. Apple
An apple a day keeps the doctor away – but maybe not on an empty stomach. Apples are high in pectin, which may increase stomach acid and lead to heartburn or gas if consumed too early.
3. Banana
While bananas are rich in potassium, eating them on an empty stomach can lead to a sudden spike in magnesium levels, which can be harmful to your heart.
4. Citrus Fruits (Oranges, Lemons)
Citrus fruits are loaded with vitamin C, but their high acidity can irritate the stomach lining, especially for people with sensitive stomachs. They can increase the risk of gastritis and ulcers when eaten alone.
5. Guava
Guavas are packed with nutrients, but their high fibre and fructose content can disrupt your digestive system when eaten on an empty stomach, leading to gas and discomfort.
6. Pineapple
Pineapple contains bromelain, an enzyme that may cause stomach irritation and discomfort if consumed early in the day. Its acidity can also trigger heartburn.
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7. Melons (Watermelon, Cantaloupe)
Although hydrating and light, melons have high sugar content and can lead to an insulin spike when eaten on an empty stomach. This can leave you feeling sluggish rather than energized.
8. Persimmon
This fruit is delicious but can form gel-like compounds in the stomach when eaten on an empty stomach, causing indigestion and even bezoars in rare cases.
9. Pear
Pears are high in fibre, and while this is generally good for digestion, eating them on an empty stomach can irritate the stomach lining and cause bloating.
10. Plum
Plums contain a high level of natural sugars and acid, which can cause acidity and discomfort if eaten without any other food.
So, What’s Safe to Eat First Thing?
Instead of these fruits, opt for something gentle on the stomach like soaked almonds, oatmeal, or a banana smoothie with a pinch of cinnamon to kickstart your day. Avoiding these fruits on an empty stomach will ensure that you stay comfortable and healthy, enjoying all their benefits later in the day.
Fruits are undoubtedly essential, but timing matters! Make sure to enjoy these fruits after a meal or as part of a balanced snack to reap all the rewards without any digestive distress.
Written by Sakinat Musa Abubakar, Editor at Neptune Prime
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