Fruits are incredibly beneficial for your health and offer a wide array of vitamins and minerals, but there are some common mistakes that can reduce their nutritional value and even make them harder to digest. Here are some of the most common mistakes you should avoid while eating fruits -
1. Not Washing Your Fruits - It’s important to wash your fruits thoroughly before you eat them, as they can be exposed to many harmful bacteria during their journey from the farm to your kitchen. Even if you plan to peel your fruit, it’s still a good idea to give it a quick rinse.
2. Eating Fruit on an Empty Stomach - Eating fruits on an empty stomach can cause bloating and gas, as the sugar and fiber in the fruit can ferment in the stomach, leading to digestive discomfort. Instead, try eating fruit with a meal or as a snack after a meal.
3. Eating Too Much Fruit - While eating more fruit is always a good thing, it’s important to keep your portions in check. Too much fruit can lead to weight gain and an imbalance of your blood sugar levels. The American Heart Association recommends an average of four servings of fruit per day, so try to stick to this guideline.
4. Eating Fruits Out of Season - It’s always best to eat fruits that are in season, as they will be fresher and contain more nutrients. Eating out of season fruits can mean that they’ve been artificially ripened, and the nutrient content can be lower.
5. Eating Fruits with Dairy Products - It’s generally not a good idea to eat fruit with dairy products, as the combination can lead to indigestion and bloating. If you do eat them together, try to limit your portions and opt for low-fat dairy products.
6. Eating Too Much Canned Fruit - Canned fruits can be a great way to get your daily fruit intake, but it’s important to be aware of the added sugar and preservatives. Try to opt for fresh fruits whenever possible, and limit the amount of canned fruit you eat.
7. Not Eating the Skin of the Fruit - The skin of many fruits is packed with nutrients and fiber, so it’s best not to peel them before eating. Of course, this doesn’t apply to all fruits, as some need to be peeled before eating.
8. Juicing all the Fruits - It is best to consume whole fruits over fruit juices. Whole fruits contain much more fiber, which helps to slow digestion, as well as reducing the impact of the sugar on your blood sugar levels. Furthermore, consuming whole fruits allows you to get the most vitamins and minerals available. Therefore, it is best to avoid drinking fruit juice and opt for whole fruits instead.
