Despite the multiple health benefits that fruit offer, they have always been shrouded by some misconception or the other. Rishi Sakhuja busts a few common myths

Fruits are one of the most delectable gifts for mankind. Loaded with nutrients, they are rich in necessary antioxidants and power-surplus properties. They serve as the much-needed energy booster for your body. Besides, they also save the day from those cliché meals of yours. Fruits are the perfect switch over to the much fibrous flavours on your plate.

Despite the multiple health benefits that fruits offer, they have always been shrouded by some misconception or the other. It could range from the right time of intake to completely avoiding them post certain hours. Available in red, orange, yellow, peach, and other bright irresistible colours, amazing flavours, and sundry textures, sourced directly from nature’s bounty — how can anyone say no to them, at any time? Hands down, fruits can always substitute any meal, at any time of the day. Let’s dive deeper and bust some of the most popular myths associated with them.

Myth 1: Fruits should be consumed on an empty stomach

Claim: It helps the body to extract the necessary nutrients in the right amount. This is an effective way of utilising the nutritional value of any fruit.

Reality: This is the most polluted rendition of the 'irst-come-first-serve concept. Our digestive system is better evolved to extract and digest the necessary nutrients from the fruits, no matter whether you had one before something or not.

Myth 2: Fruits should be treated as a standalone meal

Claim: You don’t get all the nutrients if you have fruits pre, post or alongside a meal. It slows down your digestive process, causing gas, discomfort, and a range of other unrelated symptoms.

Reality: Although insignificantly, eating fruits with meals only reduces the frequency of hunger pangs. This is actually beneficial as it makes your body feel fuller, thereby reducing intake of the extra calories.

Myth 3: People suffering or prone to Diabetes shouldn’t eat fruits at any time of the day

Claim: Fruits correlate to the spike in blood glucose level if they aren’t consumed at the right time. So, Diabetics should better be mindful.

Reality: There is no specific time for the consumption of fruits for Diabetic people. They can be equally beneficial if consumed in moderation. In fact, Diabetics are often advised to follow a fruit-based diet in smaller intervals to keep the sugar in check. This also helps them feel fuller with the right amount of fibre-rich essential nutrients.

Myth 4: The most favourable time to eat fruits is after six-seven hrs of sleep

Claim: Eating fruits early in the morning is the best time to consume them. It energises you with the optimal blood sugar level and activates your digestive system.

Reality: There is no scientific backing behind the right time of consuming fruits. Eating them at any time of the day will do you the same good as it’s supposed to do.

The writer is CEO, Fruitbox & Co