Fruits usually served as an appetizer before an actual meal. There are many benefits of having fruits as an appetizer.

 

Consuming fruits is important in balanced and healthy diet. Fruits and vegetables accommodate in the first layer of food pyramid as suggested by Ministry of Health. This means fruits and vegetables need to be consumed in rather large amount i.e. 3 servings for vegetables and 2 servings for fruits in a day. When is the best time to consume fruits?

 

In general fruits can be consumed at anytime of the day. However, experts suggest of consuming fruits best in the morning and as snacks in between meals. Fruits can also be consumed as an appetizer before having an actual proper meal. This is beneficial especially if someone is on a diet programme to lose weight. Fruits contain high fibre hence resulting in slow digestion process and causing someone to feel full for prolonged time. This will reduce the person calorie intake during their actual meal. 

 

Fruits contain and rich in antioxidants. They are main natural sources of antioxidants. By consuming fruits, these antioxidants help to neutralize free radicals which are harmful to cells which can lead to various illnesses including cancer.

 

Consuming fruits before meal also ensures a better absorption of nutrients. Fruits contain sugar that requires a prolonged time to be digested and absorbed. Hence if compared to having fruits after a meal the nutrients from fruits are better digested and absorbed if having them before a meal.

 

Example of fruits that rich in fibre including apple, pear, banana and raspberry and example of fruits that rich in antioxidant including grapes, strawberry and papaya. For diabetic patients the intake of fruits is advised not to be in large amount in order to avoid the excess sugar.

 

In conclusion, consuming fruits is important to ensure balanced and healthy diets. Fruits if eaten before a meal may also render many health benefits which can be a good habit to adopt.

 

References:

https://food.ndtv.com/food-drinks/should-you-eat-fruits-before-or-after-a-meal-1833330

Rozier, V. (2014). Best Time To Eat & Exercise Guide: The best time to exercise, eat (carbs, proteins, veggies, fruit, fibre, dairy, etc.) and drink (water, alcohol, coffee, and tea) (Best Time Guide). Step One Publishing.

 

Article prepared by:
Nur Khairunnisa binti Mohd. Azhari
Industrial Training Student, 
Bachelor of Science (Biomedic Science),
Faculty of Medicine & Health Sciences,
Universiti Putra Malaysia.

Date of Input: 27/10/2021 | Updated: 27/10/2021 | izzatussofia