The doctor warned who should not eat fruits on an empty stomach

The habit of starting the morning with fruits or freshly squeezed juice is considered one of the symbols of healthy eating. However, such a breakfast is not beneficial for everyone - in some people, it can cause discomfort from the gastrointestinal tract.

As reported by BAKU.WS with reference to the "Doctor" TV channel, dietitian and Candidate of Medical Sciences Darya Rusakova explained that consuming fruits on an empty stomach can lead to unpleasant consequences, especially in the presence of chronic diseases of the digestive system.

According to the specialist, most fruits contain organic acids that, when entering an empty stomach, can irritate the lining of the stomach and duodenum. This is especially true for people already suffering from gastritis or other inflammatory diseases of the gastrointestinal tract.

Another reason for feeling unwell can be fructose. If the body does not have time to fully absorb it, the sugar enters the large intestine, where it becomes a nutrient medium for bacteria. As a result, fermentation processes begin, accompanied by bloating, cramps, and bowel disturbances.

In addition, rough dietary fiber can cause certain discomfort. It exerts mechanical effects on the walls of the stomach and intestines, which can worsen symptoms in cases of gastritis, colitis, and other diseases of the digestive system.

The dietitian also warned that for people with impaired glucose tolerance, sweet fruits on an empty stomach can be harmful due to a sharp spike in blood sugar levels. After active insulin production, a rapid drop in glucose often occurs, leading to weakness, drowsiness, and irritability.

At the same time, healthy people may not experience any unpleasant sensations after eating fruits before breakfast. The body's reaction largely depends on individual characteristics and overall health status.

The expert recommends consuming fruits in the first half of the day as a snack or approximately two hours after a main meal. People with diabetes are better off combining them with protein-rich foods - meat, fish, or seafood, which helps slow down glucose absorption.

Preference should be given to ripe and not overly sour fruits. For those with increased stomach sensitivity, a safer option would be baked or stewed fruits, since after heat treatment they contain fewer acids and the fiber becomes softer.

Special caution should be exercised during exacerbations of gastritis and peptic ulcer disease, irritable bowel syndrome, fructose malabsorption, and diabetes. In such cases, fruits eaten on an empty stomach can worsen the course of the disease.

Darya Rusakova emphasized that fruits are an important part of a healthy diet, but they cannot replace a full breakfast. According to her, the optimal strategy remains moderate consumption taking into account the individual characteristics of the body.