There is a popular belief that consuming certain foods or drinks on an empty stomach is beneficial for health. One of the foods that is often consumed under these conditions is apple, often mixed with milk to prepare a smoothie enjoyed at breakfast or on an empty stomach. Although the apple has positive effects on the body, the addition of milk may contribute sugars and saturated fats to the smoothie.
According to Healthline, the benefits of apple smoothie are related to food digestion and heart health. However, consuming this drink on an empty stomach does not modify its positive effects on the body nor does it prevent nutrient absorption. Nutrition experts state that for a healthy person without specific medical conditions, the order in which foods are consumed does not affect how nutrients are absorbed.
Some misconceptions suggest that eating fruits on an empty stomach can slow down digestion, cause blockages in the stomach, or generate discomforts such as gas and bloating. However, clinical studies have shown that the fiber in apples, present in the smoothie, can improve digestion and combat constipation.
Healthline points out that the fiber present in the apple smoothie can help empty the stomach more slowly, which benefits both cases of constipation and diarrhea. Therefore, there is no scientific evidence to support the beliefs that consuming an apple smoothie on an empty stomach is harmful to digestive health.
To prepare an apple smoothie, a simple recipe includes ingredients like red apples, milk, and sugar. The apples are cut and blended with the milk, without the need to peel them to take advantage of their fiber content. This drink can be enjoyed at any time of the day, as part of a balanced breakfast or as a healthy snack.
