In conversation with HT Lifestyle, Dr Zenith Sinojiya, DNB (general medicine) physician, critical care specialist, obesity and type 2 diabetes specialist, decodes the reality behind this social media hype. In this edition of the HT Lifestyle series, ‘Internet vs Reality,’ we are looking at another most hyped health claim that we often come across: eating fruits at night can cause weight gain . But is timing really the issue?
Also read | Indian food decoded: Is your morning poha actually healthy? Here’s what a nutritionist wants you to know From our grandparents and parents to social media , there has long been a belief that eating fruit at night can lead to health issues and weight gain. But is timing really the culprit when it comes to a food that is otherwise considered healthy? Let’s decode the claim through science. It’s a misconception that fruit sugar magically turns into fat once it gets dark. It is helpful to remember that whole fruit has fibre. Whole fruit has a better nutritional profile than fruit juice , desserts or processed sugary snacks. For example, people with reflux may feel more symptoms if they eat close to bedtime. Also, people with diabetes may find it better to eat fruit as part of a meal instead of eating a large amount of fruit alone at night. You should focus on your diet, your portion size and your calorie balance instead of following random food cut-off times,” advises Dr Zenith.
Because it is evening, “For healthy people, there is no need to fear an apple, guava, orange or other whole fruit just.
Food timing can matter for some people, according to Dr Zenith.

