Why Beans And Fried Plantains Might Be A Risky Food Combination

Frying ripe plantains imparts a delightful caramel-like flavor that many find appealing, often enjoyed alongside mixed beans cooked in palm kernel oil.

A recurring online discussion centers on the healthiness of combining beans and ripe plantains.

Kemi Lopsam, a natural health doctor and acupuncturist based in Akure, first addressed this topic in 2019 on Newsroom. Lopsam distinguishes between ripe and unripe plantains. She explains that “cooking foods like beans with unripe plantains poses no issues. It’s a perfect combination that aids digestion.” However, cooking beans with ripe plantain is considered unhealthy.

The Combination Produces Acidity

Ripe plantains are classified as fruits. When heated, fructose in fruits converts into acid, potentially leading to various health issues.

Beans are inherently acid-forming, but they contribute to a balanced pH level in the body, combining both acidic and alkaline properties.

The problem arises when the two are combined; acid-forming foods can be detrimental, possibly resulting in heart problems, ulcers, and gastrointestinal reflux.

They Digest at Different Rates

According to Lopsam, beans require five to seven hours for digestion and to exit the stomach, while ripe plantains take just three hours. Lopsam mistakenly claims that fruits (plantains) digest in the terminal ileum, not the stomach. However, both fruits and food (beans) undergo digestion in the small intestine.

She recommends consuming plantains raw rather than cooking them.

The combination of beans and plantains, both highly acidic, may lead to significant stomach upset when consumed together.

The Choice of Oil Affects Fried Plantains’ Healthiness

As per Healthline, “fried plantains aren’t exactly a healthy choice if fried in unhealthy oil.” The quality of oil used in preparation significantly impacts the healthiness of plantains.

Plantain Chips Can Be High in Calories and Fat

As indicated by the United States Department of Agriculture, plantain chips are calorie, fat, and carbohydrate-dense. Their high-calorie content can contribute to weight gain and potentially lead to health issues like hypertension.

Credit: Pulse