Smoothies are often seen as extremely healthy, but there weren't many experiments that could prove it.
Specialists conducted an experiment to understand how the combination of different ingredients in smoothies affects the absorption of beneficial compounds called flavanols in the body.
Now, you can learn how to make your favorite drink even better.
Why they studied this topic
Flavanols, which are beneficial for heart and brain health, are commonly found in fruits and cocoa, often used in smoothies.
In the experiment, they compared smoothies containing bananas, known for their high levels of an enzyme called polyphenol oxidase (PPO), to smoothies with mixed berries, which have lower PPO levels.
Additionally, participants were given a flavanol capsule as a comparison point.
The specialists analyzed blood and urine samples to measure flavanol levels in the body after consuming the different smoothies and the capsule.
To their surprise, individuals who consumed the banana smoothie had 84% less flavanols in their systems in comparison to those who ingested the flavanol capsule.
The researchers' conclusion was that mixing fruits with high PPO activity, such as bananas, with flavanol-rich fruits like berries, grapes, and cocoa, might decrease the body's ability to absorb these valuable flavanols.
Why it might be helpful
This research emphasizes how the way we prepare and combine foods can impact how our bodies absorb dietary compounds such as flavanols.
Further research is needed to explore how different food preparation methods can impact the availability of flavanols and other beneficial compounds in various foods.
