Q. I've always heard that bananas can be constipating. Is there any truth to this?

A. I think this reputation stems from the fact that bananas are a traditional home remedy for diarrhea, especially for babies and young children.  Bananas contain a type of fiber called pectin that absorbs water in the intestines, which can help with loose bowels.  As a bonus, bananas are high in potassium, a nutrient that can be depleted by a bout of diarrhea. While bananas may be "binding," they don't cause constipation.