3225: Should You Stop Adding Bananas to Berry Smoothies?

December 4, 2024

3225: Should You Stop Adding Bananas to Berry Smoothies?

December 4, 2024

WW: Should You Stop Adding Bananas to Berry Smoothies?

Did you know people are suddenly avoiding bananas in their smoothies?

This trend has been popping up on social media lately, and I’ve also heard about it from a few colleagues…

But before jumping to conclusions or making changes based on the latest trends, it’s important to approach these claims with some discernment and take a closer look at the true science of what was studied.

That’s why, on today’s Cabral Concept 3225, I’ll dive into the real research behind this trend to uncover whether there’s any truth to it and help you decide if you should stop adding bananas to your berry smoothies. Enjoy the show, and I’d love to hear your thoughts!

Show Highlights & Big Takeaways

1. What Was The Study

This study explored how consuming smoothies made with different fruits affects the absorption of flavan-3-ols, beneficial compounds found in fruits and vegetables. It aimed to determine whether the enzyme polyphenol oxidase (PPO) in certain fruits influences the availability of flavan-3-ols in the body.

2. What Did The Study Find

The study found that smoothies made with high-PPO fruits, like bananas, significantly reduced the absorption of flavan-3-ols compared to smoothies made with low-PPO fruits, like berries.

3. What To Do

One thing this study did not show, however, is that mixing bananas with berries lowers flavan-3-ol levels. The research focused on a supplement consumed with bananas, not on the combination of bananas and berries. Would the same effect occur if they were mixed? Since this was a small study, more research is needed before making significant changes to your routine.