Verywell Health [writes](https://www.verywellhealth.com/best-time-to-eat-prunes-12076671) that for people who experience bloating, rumbling, or frequent urges after eating prunes, experts recommend consuming them in the first half of the day to avoid discomfort at night. ## Why Prunes Help the Gut Dried plums contain fiber and sorbitol — a natural sugar alcohol that retains water in the intestines and helps soften stools. Fiber increases stool bulk and aids in establishing regular bowel movements. Studies show that daily consumption of prunes can increase stool frequency and improve gut function in individuals prone to constipation. ## When is the Best Time to Eat Prunes There is no universal recommendation: prunes can be consumed in the morning, afternoon, or evening. The key is to include them in the diet regularly and consider individual body reactions. Dried plums can be added to morning porridge, yogurt, or cottage cheese. As a daytime snack, they help satisfy hunger and provide carbohydrates — a source of energy. Eating prunes right before bed is not prohibited. However, due to their laxative effect, they may cause gas, discomfort, or nighttime urges to use the bathroom. In such cases, it is better to move the product to breakfast or the first half of the day. ## Can Prunes Help Control Weight A few fruits can be eaten between main meals or shortly before eating. Thanks to their fiber content, prunes enhance the feeling of fullness and may help prevent overeating. At the same time, the product is quite caloric and contains a lot of natural sugars. Five fruits contain about 110–115 kilocalories, 30 grams of carbohydrates, and over three grams of fiber. Therefore, consuming prunes without limits is not advisable. ## How Many Can Be Eaten If prunes were rarely included in the diet before, it is better to start with two to three fruits a day. Then the amount can be gradually increased while monitoring the body's reaction. A large portion of fiber and sorbitol can cause bloating, cramps, or diarrhea. Prunes can be: * eaten as a standalone snack; * added to porridge, yogurt, or cottage cheese; * used to make smoothies; * added to salads, baked goods, and meat dishes; * chopped and used as a natural sweetener in sauces. The main thing is to choose a convenient time and maintain moderation. If prunes cause discomfort in the evenings, it is better to eat them in the morning or during the day. In cases of prolonged or frequently recurring constipation, one should not rely solely on food — the cause of the disorder should be discussed with a doctor.
