Fruit is one of the main sources of healthy food. It contains vitamins, minerals, fibre and antioxidants that play an important part in keeping the body healthy, so many people make a habit of eating fruit as soon as they wake up. But not every fruit is equally good on an empty stomach. Some can cause gas, heartburn, stomach pain or digestive trouble.

Citrus fruits such as orange, malta, lemon and pomelo are rich in vitamin C but also high in natural acids. Eaten on an empty stomach, they can make some people's stomachs produce excess acid. People with gastric problems or acidity in particular may get heartburn and discomfort.

Pineapple contains an enzyme called bromelain, which helps digestion. But eating a lot of pineapple on an empty stomach can cause burning or discomfort in the stomach, especially for people with sensitive stomachs.

Guava shares many of the qualities of apple, such as fibre, antioxidants and vitamins, though the two fruits' antioxidants differ. Guava contains the polyphenols lycopene and quercetin, which are good for the nervous system. It lowers blood cholesterol, which helps keep blood pressure under control and reduces the risk of stroke, and its abundant vitamin C boosts immunity. But eating raw or hard guava on an empty stomach can cause stomach pain or gas for many people, as its high fibre can strain digestion in the morning.

Coconut is rich in healthy fats and various nutrients but is relatively high in calories. According to many nutritionists, eating a lot of coconut or coconut-based food on a completely empty stomach in the morning may not suit everyone and can cause digestive discomfort. It is better eaten in moderation and with other food.

Banana is a nutritious, energy-giving fruit containing potassium, vitamin B6 and natural sugars. But many experts believe that starting the day with banana alone can raise blood sugar quickly, only for it to fall again a little later, leaving you hungry soon. It is better to eat banana with nuts, yoghurt or another protein-rich food.

Strawberries, raspberries and other sour berries are very nutritious, but eating a lot of them on an empty stomach can cause digestive problems in sensitive people. They are better eaten with other food.

Watermelon is full of water, but eating a large amount on a completely empty stomach can cause bloating or discomfort in some people. It is best eaten in moderation.

People with gastric problems, ulcers, acidity, IBS or a sensitive digestive system should be careful before eating sour or acidic fruit on an empty stomach, because each body reacts differently.

Banana, ripe papaya, apple, pear or soaked dates are considered relatively safer on an empty stomach in the morning. They are easily digested and release energy gradually.

Fruit is certainly healthy, but eating it at the right time and in the right way matters too. Before eating fruit on an empty stomach in the morning, keep your own body's needs and tolerance in mind.

This report draws on Medium, the Times of India and other sources.

Source: Jagonews24. First published in Bengali on The Agro News.