Question 1

Why is es in the indicative mood here instead of the subjunctive?

Accepted Answer

The phrase si bien (although / while it is true that) is almost always followed by the indicative mood, even when expressing a concession. Unlike aunque, which can use the subjunctive to express doubt or uncertainty, si bien is used to state an accepted fact.

Question 2

Could I use aunque instead of si bien here?

Accepted Answer

Yes, you could say aunque el batido es sano. The meaning is practically identical. However, si bien sounds slightly more formal or analytical, making it great for written Spanish or giving explanations.

Question 3

Why do we use es sano instead of está sano?

Accepted Answer

We use ser because being healthy is an intrinsic characteristic of the smoothie. If you used estar sano, it would typically mean a living thing is currently in good health (not sick). For foods that are good for you, always use ser sano (or ser saludable).

Question 4

How does se dice translate to "it is said"?

Accepted Answer

This is the impersonal se. It is used to talk about what people in general do or say, without specifying a subject. It translates smoothly to passive English constructions like "it is said" or general statements like "people say".

Question 5

Why isn't there an a after afecta?

Accepted Answer

The verb afectar takes a direct object. In Spanish, you only need the preposition a (the "personal a") when the direct object is a specific person or pet. Since la digestión is a thing, no a is needed here.

Se dice que, si bien el batido es sano, afecta la digestión.

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