Banana offers dietary fibre that can help in supporting digestion. Presence of resistant starch in unripe banana is a prebiotic.
Photo Credit: istockphoto
The fruit contains an essential mineral called potassium that can support heart health particularly for regulating blood pressure. Bananas are an excellent source of potassium with one medium banana offering 10% of daily value.
Banana is a highly nutritious fruit that can offer instant energy. It is an excellent source of fibre, vitamin B6, vitamin C, several antioxidants, and phytonutrients. Regular consumption of banana can improve heart health, support digestion, regulate blood pressure, and aid weight management plans. It is a superb pre-workout fuel for muscles and can effectively help in decreasing exercise-induced cramps.
Supports Blood Sugar Levels: The fruit contains adequate amount of soluble fibre and it can dissolve in liquid to create a gel during digestion process. Unripe or green bananas has resistant starch, a fibre type that the body does not digest. These two different types of fibre together can help moderate blood sugar levels post meals that can regulate the appetite by reducing the emptying of stomach. It implies that the fruit may not trigger sharp spikes in blood sugar levels in individuals with diabetes despite the presence of higher carbs, according to healthline. 1
According to a study featured in National Library of Medicine, raw banana contains glycemic index of 47 (low) and glycemic load of 7 (again low). 2 Meanwhile, overripe banana’s GI is 57 (medium) and GL 9 (low again). But, people with diabetes must not eat too much bananas as it can raise blood sugar levels. Moderation will remain the key for them.
Improves Digestion: Banana offers dietary fibre that can help in supporting digestion. Presence of resistant starch in unripe banana is a prebiotic. These prebiotics goes to the large intestine after escaping digestion where they feed the healthy gut bacteria. The fruit (both ripe and unripe) offers a fibre called pectin that can effectively prevent constipation and soften stools. Pectin can also offer protection against colon cancer. Regular consumption of banana will support healthy eating habits as the fruit is a powerful source of sustainable nutrition.
Supports Heart Health: The fruit contains an essential mineral called potassium that can support heart health particularly for regulating blood pressure. Bananas are an excellent source of potassium with one medium banana offering 10% of daily value. Potassium-dense food can help in reducing blood pressure that can decrease the risk of hypertension. Individuals consuming over 3000 mg of potassium everyday will have 25% less risk of cardiovascular disease. Banana also offers 8% of daily value magnesium, essential for boosting heart health. Deficiency of banana can cause heart disease risks, increased blood pressure, and high fat levels in blood.
Offers Antioxidants: Banana is also a rich source of dietary antioxidants that can offer several health benefits. Banana offers powerful antioxidants that can provide flavonoids and amines. These antioxidants can reduce the risk of heart disease and macular degeneration.
Disclaimer: This content is for general informational purposes only and should not replace professional medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider with any questions about your health or treatment options.
At marvelof.com, we spotlight the latest trends and products to keep you informed and inspired. Our coverage is editorial, not an endorsement to purchase. If you choose to shop through links in this article, whether on Amazon, Flipkart, or Myntra, marvelof.com may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.
