Smoothies are a staple for health enthusiasts, often packed with fruit and fiber for a nutritious boost. But new research from UC Davis suggests adding a banana might undermine key health benefits if you blend it with berries. The culprit? Bananas contain polyphenol oxidase (PPO), an enzyme that dramatically reduces the absorption of flavanols—bioactive compounds found in berries, grapes, and cocoa that support heart and brain health.
In a controlled trial, participants who drank a banana-berry smoothie absorbed 84% fewer flavanols compared to those who skipped the banana. For optimal nutrition, researchers advise pairing bananas with vegetables like kale or cucumber instead, and mixing berries with low-PPO fruits such as pineapple or mango. To learn more, see the original article at New Atlas.