ananas have relatively high sugar contents in comparison with other natural foods, which contributes to their glycemic index and glycemic load values. A large banana has more than 16.5 g sugar, which is a mixture of sucrose, glucose and fructose. According to Harvard Medical School, a ripe banana’s glycemic index is 51 and its glycemic load is 13, higher values than those for apples, grapefruits, grapes, oranges, peaches or pears. When a food has a higher glycemic index and glycemic load, you are more likely to experience spikes in blood sugar and insulin levels after you eat that food. However, bananas' glycemic index value is not nearly as high as values from baked goods and desserts that include refined sugar.
Considerations
It’s important to look at bananas from a balanced perspective and understand that they also have many advantages, including high potassium and fiber contents. Rather than avoiding them altogether, it can be healthy to include them in moderation in your diet along with a mixture of other fresh fruits and vegetables, lean proteins, low-fat or nonfat dairy products and whole grains. For individual nutrition guidance, see your doctor or a registered dietitian.
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