February 27, 2010 Share Tweet

A Future Health Now! member asked a question about eating fruit and avoiding high blood sugar:

In Modules 31 & 32 you recommend eating fruit at least 20-30 minutes before a meal. But I thought it was better to eat fruit after a meal so that it absorbs more slowly and doesn’t spike your blood sugar level.

The main reason I discourage combining fresh fruit with protein, starch and fat is because it causes indigestion. The fruit breaks down quite quickly but can’t be absorbed because your gut is waiting for the other foods you ate to digest. In the meantime, since you’re not absorbing the sugar from the fruit – the bacteria in your gut has a fiesta causing toxic fermentation and gas.

Cooking a little fruit into your porridge is okay. Or a little fruit in a protein smoothie… Alright. The key word here is “little.”

Otherwise, eat fruit separate from meals. But only when you are truly hungry. First thing in the morning is good because your blood sugar is usually a little low anyway. Or eat it before or after you exercise.

Most people are a diabetic disaster waiting to happen — drinking soda pop constantly and eating donuts day after day. And here the health-conscious are fretting over what a little piece of fruit will do to their blood sugar.

Relax! A small portion on an empty stomach is perfectly fine. Yes, it may require your pancreas to produce a little bit of insulin – but that’s the pancreas’ job.

Carolyn Dean MD ND

The Doctor of the Future®

RESOURCES: Along the borders and in the links of my web site you can find my books, writings, and my call-in radio show. Email your questions to: questions@drcarolyndeanlive.com.