Is it Sunnah to eat something sweet before and after meals?

We learn from the Ahadith that when a Walimah would take place in the era of Rasulullah Salallahu Alaihi Wasallam, then Rasulullah Salallahu Alaihi Wasallam and the Sahaaba would partake of the sweet dish at the end of the meal. Therefore, some Ulama have given preference to eating the sweet dish at the end of the meal. Also, it is proven from a medical point of view that eating sweet items after a meal is beneficial. However, this in no way means that it is Makrooh or Haraam to partake of sweet food at the start of the meal.

It is understood from the teachings of Imaam Ghazaali Rahimahullah that, if fruit is served or placed on the Dastarkhaan, then one should commence with the fruit, followed by meat and roti, and finally one should partake of sweet in the end.

It is recorded in the narration of Aisha Radiallahu Anha that Nabeez (a sweet drink made from dates) would be served at the end of the meal.

In conclusion, it is better to partake of fruit in the beginning (of the meal) and a sweet dish at the end, as understood from the Ahadith.