Are you someone who always reaches for a handful or dates to get through the day? You’re not the only one. The dried fruit and nuts that you can eat anytime are packed with nutrients. Have you ever wondered if there is a “best time” to enjoy these snacks. As it turns out, yes. It could change the way that you snack forever.
Nuts and dried fruits are packed with nutrients. But they’re not the perfect solution for everyone. The benefits of eating them vary depending on the time and why you eat it. The same dried apricots you eat in the morning might make you feel drained at night. When is the best time of day to eat nuts and dried fruits? Experts say that timing is important. Experts say that timing can impact everything from digestion and energy to blood sugar levels and sleep quality.
Rhea Mehta is a bio-toxicologist, nutrition scientist and says that the issue is not the food but the timing. It’s about matching your intake to your needs. But how?
Let’s begin with energy boosters. Dried fruits and nuts are great to eat in the morning, afternoon, or before a workout. Almonds, walnuts and dates provide energy in the morning. Pistachios and dates are great before a workout to give you a quick boost. Cashews, raisins and pistachios will give you an energy boost in the afternoon. Almonds, walnuts and raisins soaked in water are best consumed in the morning to allow for a faster metabolism. Nut butter can be eaten midmorning or afternoon to satisfy cravings without causing a sugar crash. Avoid dried fruit at night.
To aid digestion and bowel movement, fiber-rich foods like prunes and figs are great in the morning. You can also include lighter fiber options in the evening like soaked dried walnuts and apricots to avoid bloating. Consuming dried fruits and nuts at night can cause bloating. Dry fruits can cause gas and discomfort because the natural sugars ferment in your gut.
Another factor to consider is sleep quality. Certain foods and magnesium-rich nuts work together to improve relaxation, sleep quality, and melatonin. Nicole Linhares Kedia is a sports nutritionist who recommends mixing crushed pistachios and almonds with milk. Milk contains tryptophan which increases melatonin. Almonds and walnuts mixed with bananas are also a good option. They’re rich in potassium and B6, making them a natural muscle relaxing food. Dark cherries and nuts can also boost melatonin. Avoid sugary nuts, such as honey-roasted or covered in chocolate. They can cause energy spikes. Salty nuts can cause dehydration and sodium excess in the body. Caffeinated nuts may disrupt your sleep cycle and cause melatonin to be disrupted.
What’s the main takeaway? When the body is ready to absorb nutrients, it’s best to eat dried fruit and nuts. Treat them with intention. Your body will thank your for it. Timing is crucial, whether you want to boost your energy, manage your weight, improve digestion, or get better sleep. By knowing when to eat these snacks, and how to pair them with the right foods you can make them more effective for your body. Next time you reach for a handful of nuts or dried fruit, remember that the right time is crucial.
