"Don't Eat This Fruit for Gut Health," Warns Harvard-Trained Doctor

Harvard-Trained Specialist Warns
"Avoid Overripe Bananas"

There has been a warning from an expert that bananas, which are widely known as a representative fruit for gut health, can actually be harmful to the gut. In particular, it was pointed out that overripe bananas contain excessively high levels of sugar, which can cause a rapid spike in blood sugar and do not help the proliferation of beneficial gut bacteria.

According to reports from foreign media outlets such as the Daily Mail and The Mirror in the United Kingdom on September 14 (local time), Dr. Saurabh Seti, an internal medicine specialist and graduate of Harvard Medical School, recently discussed fruits that affect gut health through his social media account. He explained, "Not all fruits are good for the gut, and some can have a negative impact on the digestive system."

"Rapid Blood Sugar Spikes, Insufficient Food for Beneficial Bacteria"

A doctor from Harvard Medical School in the United States warned that "overripe bananas" can have a negative impact on gut health. Pixabay

Dr. Seti particularly emphasized that 'overripe bananas' should be avoided. He analyzed that bananas that are excessively ripe contain a lot of sugar, which not only raises blood sugar rapidly but also fails to provide enough nourishment for beneficial gut bacteria.

He added that 'less ripe bananas,' which have a slightly greenish hue, are less harmful to gut health. Less ripe bananas are known to be rich in dietary fiber, which can help lower the risk of heart disease, stroke, type 2 diabetes, and colon cancer.

In fact, research has confirmed that as bananas ripen, their levels of resistant starch and dietary fiber decrease, while simple sugars increase. Resistant starch is not easily broken down by digestive enzymes, so it reaches the gut and serves as food for gut bacteria. This can be particularly problematic for people who need to manage their blood sugar. Additionally, bananas with high sugar content may cause bloating in some individuals.

What is the 'Best Fruit' for Gut Health?

Dr. Seti ranked blueberries as the number one fruit for gut health. Pixabay

Dr. Seti selected blueberries as the best fruit for gut health. Blueberries are rich in soluble fiber, which serves as food for beneficial gut bacteria, and their antioxidants help reduce inflammation. Pomegranates were recommended next. Pomegranates contain large amounts of polyphenols and powerful antioxidants that promote diversity among gut microbiota.

Kiwi was also mentioned as an excellent fruit for gut health. The fiber in kiwi helps relieve constipation and increase the frequency of bowel movements, and by promoting smooth bowel movements, it prevents toxins from lingering on the intestinal wall for too long. According to research, when bowel movements slow down, the risk of developing gastrointestinal cancer can increase by up to 1.5 times.