Why shouldn't bananas and sweet potatoes be eaten together?
Disease description:
I often hear people say that bananas relieve constipation, and sweet potatoes do as well. However, my friend says these two shouldn't be eaten together. I'd like to ask the doctor why bananas and sweet potatoes shouldn't be consumed together?
Doctor's answer (1)
Dr. Shen Yonghua
Bananas and sweet potatoes are both high-fiber foods. Bananas are rich in dietary fiber and fructose, while sweet potatoes contain large amounts of dietary fiber and carbohydrates. When consumed in large quantities together, they may increase the burden on the gastrointestinal tract. Individuals with sensitive digestive systems may experience symptoms such as bloating and indigestion.
Sweet potatoes have a high starch content and contain oxidase, an enzyme that can produce gas in the gastrointestinal tract, leading to symptoms like bloating and indigestion. Additionally, the fructose in bananas may be fermented by intestinal bacteria, producing extra gas. Therefore, consuming both together may exacerbate feelings of bloating and discomfort.
Bananas contain significant amounts of potassium, and sweet potatoes also contain a certain amount of potassium. Potassium is an essential mineral for the human body and plays an important role in maintaining heart function and stabilizing blood pressure. However, excessive potassium intake may lead to hyperkalemia, especially in individuals with impaired kidney function. When kidney function is compromised, the ability to excrete potassium decreases, leading to potassium accumulation in the body, which can affect heart function.
Therefore, to avoid possible gastrointestinal discomfort, it is recommended not to consume bananas and sweet potatoes together in daily meals. Additionally, it is important to maintain moderate consumption and avoid excessive intake of nutrients such as dietary fiber and sugar.
