Can I eat plantains on an empty stomach?

Mar 26, 2025 Source: Cainiu Health
Disease description:

I am 21 years old. I ate a banana on an empty stomach today and wonder if that's okay. I would like to know whether it's advisable to eat bananas on an empty stomach.

Doctor's answer (1)
Dr. Yu Yongchao

Generally, it is not recommended to eat bananas on an empty stomach. Bananas contain abundant magnesium and other trace elements; consuming them on an empty stomach may cause a sudden increase in magnesium levels in the body, potentially suppressing cardiovascular function and negatively affecting health. The dietary fiber in bananas may stimulate intestinal motility, and eating bananas on an empty stomach could accelerate gastrointestinal activity, possibly causing discomfort such as diarrhea and nausea.

Bananas are relatively cooling in nature; eating them on an empty stomach may damage the gastrointestinal mucosa and cause abdominal pain. Additionally, bananas have a high sugar content, and consuming them on an empty stomach might elevate blood glucose levels, potentially triggering blood sugar fluctuations in individuals with diabetes or unstable blood sugar levels.

Bananas also should not be consumed with certain foods such as potatoes and milk, as this may easily lead to gastrointestinal discomfort including bloating, cold stomach, and diarrhea. Although bananas are nutritious, their intake should be controlled to avoid impairing the digestion and absorption of nutrients. Excessive accumulation of sugar may also lead to obesity and other related issues.

To safeguard health, it is advisable to avoid eating bananas on an empty stomach and to maintain a balanced and diverse diet in daily meals. Individuals with specific medical histories should plan their diets under the guidance of a physician or nutritionist.