Watermelon cannot be left overnight, will it cause cancer? Doctors remind: These 4 kinds of fruits really cannot be left overnight

On a hot summer afternoon, a young lady named Xiaoyan came to my clinic. She sat down anxiously and said, "Doctor, I've seen a lot of things online recently saying that watermelon cannot be eaten overnight because it can cause cancer. This scared me! I cut half of the watermelon last night and didn't finish it. Can I still eat it this morning?" Looking at Xiaoyan's nervous expression, I could deeply feel her inner worries. I smiled and told her not to worry, and then slowly explained to her.

The truth about overnight watermelon

In fact, whether watermelon can be eaten overnight depends on how it is stored.

If the cut watermelon is sealed with clean plastic wrap and refrigerated, there is no problem eating it within a short period of time (generally no more than 24 hours).

However, if the watermelon is left at room temperature for a long time after being cut, bacteria will multiply in large numbers. Eating such watermelon may cause diarrhea and other problems, but it will not cause cancer.

I patiently said to Xiaoyan:

"Xiaoyan, think about it, if the watermelon is cut and exposed to the air, bacteria from the outside can easily fall on it, especially in the summer when the temperature is high and bacteria multiply very quickly.

But if you wrap it well and put it in the refrigerator, the low temperature environment can inhibit the growth of bacteria, and when you eat it the next day, you can cut off a little bit of the surface layer, and it's generally fine."

Xiaoyan was slightly relieved after hearing this, but still asked with some concern:

"Doctor, how do you tell if overnight watermelon is still edible?"

I went on to explain:

“You can smell it first, if there is a strange smell, then you definitely can’t eat it.

Also look at the color and texture of the watermelon. If it becomes too soft or has an unusual color, don’t eat it.”

4 kinds of fruits that really can't be left overnight

strawberry

Strawberries are a very delicate fruit and are easily contaminated by bacteria and mold.

If left overnight, especially at room temperature, it can easily go bad.

Bayberry

The surface of bayberry is uneven, which easily harbors dirt and breeds bacteria.

Even if the bayberry is kept in the refrigerator overnight, it may have been invaded by bacteria.

banana

After a banana is cut or peeled, the flesh will quickly oxidize and turn black, and it is easy for bacteria to grow.

litchi

Lychees are high in sugar and easily fermented overnight, producing alcohol and harmful substances.

There have been reports that some people who ate overnight lychees experienced dizziness, fatigue and other symptoms similar to drunkenness.

This is because lychees change during the storage process and produce some substances that are harmful to the body.

How to store fruit properly

Eat as soon as possible

After purchasing fruit, try to eat it while it is fresh for the best taste and nutrition.

Fruits are like flowers; they are most delicious when in bloom, but they tend to lose their original charm over time.

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Different fruits have different storage methods.

Apples, pears, etc. can be kept at room temperature for a few days;

It is best to put strawberries, bayberries, etc. in the refrigerator as soon as possible.

For example, apples have a relatively thick skin, which can resist external damage to a certain extent and can be preserved for a period of time if placed in a cool and ventilated place.

But strawberries are different. They are very fragile and need to be carefully cared for. They should be kept in the refrigerator and are best eaten within two or three days.

Pay attention to packaging

Cut or peeled fruits should be wrapped in plastic wrap or plastic bags to prevent bacteria from entering.

It is like putting a layer of "protective clothing" on the fruits to reduce the damage during storage.

The relationship between fruit and health

Fruits are rich in vitamins, minerals and dietary fiber, and have many benefits for our bodies.

But if consumed improperly, it may also cause some problems.

For example, excessive consumption of high-sugar fruits may cause blood sugar to rise;

Eating spoiled fruits may cause gastrointestinal diseases.

I said to Xiaoyan:

"Xiaoyan, fruits are like 'little angels' in our body, which can bring us various nutrients and health.

But if we don't treat them well, they might also get angry.

For example, if your blood sugar is a little high and you eat a lot of high-sugar fruits like bananas and lychees, your blood sugar may get out of control.

For example, if you eat spoiled fruit, your stomach and intestines will protest, making you feel uncomfortable for a while.

Therefore, we should pay attention to the method of eating fruits, so that fruits can become our health's 'little helpers' instead of 'little troubles'. "

Xiaoyan nodded repeatedly, indicating that she would pay attention in the future.

Summary and reminders

After listening to my explanation, Xiaoyan finally put down the big stone in her heart and said:

"Thank you, doctor. I will pay attention to the storage and consumption of fruits in the future."

In fact, in daily life, we don’t need to panic too much about the problem of fruits left overnight. As long as we master the correct methods, we can enjoy the deliciousness of fruits and ensure our health.

For example, every time you buy fruit, don't buy too much, just enough to last for one or two days.

The cut fruit must be eaten as soon as possible. If you cannot finish it, you must store it well.

In short, I hope everyone can treat fruits scientifically and let them add more sweetness and health to our lives. Remember, it is not watermelon that cannot be kept overnight, but those fruits that are easy to spoil. Let us use the right way to accompany fruits and welcome every beautiful day! Follow me to share more health knowledge with everyone~