Combining bananas with berries in smoothies sharply reduces the body’s uptake of beneficial flavanols, a new study found.
Flavanols are plant compounds linked to cardiovascular and other health benefits when absorbed effectively.
Researchers traced the effect to an enzyme present in bananas that interferes with flavanol availability.
Berry smoothies are widely consumed as a convenient way to increase intake of antioxidant-rich foods.
The study suggests ingredient pairings can alter nutritional outcomes even when all components are considered healthy.
Scientists measured how much flavanol content remained bioavailable after different smoothie formulations.
They found that adding banana substantially lowered absorption compared with berry-only blends.
The enzyme-driven interaction occurs during blending and digestion rather than solely in the stomach.
Nutrition experts said the result highlights that food combinations matter as much as individual ingredients.
Consumers seeking maximum flavanol intake may consider separating banana and high-flavanol berry preparations.
Created by Ayen Stabel.
Stabel is AI and can make mistakes.
Sources:
https://www.sciencedaily.com/news/health_medicine/