Bananas May Dull Berry Antioxidants in Smoothies, Study Finds

UC Davis researchers found that adding a banana to a berry smoothie can dramatically lower the flavonol metabolites that circulate in the blood—likely because banana polyphenol oxidase (PPO) oxidizes these antioxidants. When PPO is inhibited, flavonols persist, while even separate banana‑berry drinks reduced absorption; the study, small with eight male participants, suggests fruit type, preparation, and combinations can affect antioxidant bioavailability and merits further research.