Bananas might come across as a normal fruit with not much but only potassium to offer. The reality is quite the opposite.
For some bananas are indispensable – when they think of sundae, a banana split or simply with their breakfast cereal; not just as a healthy prerequisite.
Bananas are said to make you fat, which is a misconception. Bananas contain no fat and hence do not contribute to weight gain.
Moderates blood sugar levels
Bananas have a spongy texture, due to a substance in them called Pectin.
Green bananas aren’t naturally ripe and hence are difficult to digest. The reason?
It contains resistant starch which acts as a soluble fiber.
Both these elements, pectin and starch, help to keep the blood sugar levels moderate after meals and curb cravings. Pectin and starch help to slow down the emptying of the stomach.
Also, they have a low glycemic index, hence do not cause major spikes in blood sugar levels for healthy individuals.
For individuals who have type 2 diabetes, bananas may lower their blood sugar levels and reduce the overall risk.
Weight loss and digestion
Bananas have relatively few calories – just over 100 calories and curbs hunger too!
Bananas not only aid in digestion but also help maintain a regular bowel movement, a healthy gut and prevent issues like stomach ulcers and heartburn.
Some doctors also suggest bananas to those suffering from diarrhea since the potassium in the fruit can replace the loss of water and electrolytes in the body.
Being rich in potassium helps maintain the fluid levels in the body, which regulates the smooth movement of nutrients in the cell and wastes outside them. Potassium also helps the nerve cells to respond and the muscles contract and cuts out the effect of sodium on blood pressure.
Bananas are also an excellent source of Vitamin B6 which helps in actively producing red blood cells, metabolizing amino acids, maintaining a healthy nervous system, and eliminating toxins from the liver and kidney.
Heart health
Potassium helps maintain heart health and helps in controlling blood pressure to an optimal level. A study reveals that people who eat more bananas have a 27% lesser risk of heart disease.
Due to bananas containing fiber, potassium, folate, and antioxidants like Vitamin C, bananas are said to support cardiovascular health. A study finds that people with a high fiber diet have a lower risk of experiencing cardiovascular diseases and lower levels of LDL that is bad cholesterol.
Lowers the risk of cancer
Due to the presence of a protein called lectin, the growth of leukemia cells can be prevented.
Too many free radicals can lead to cell damage thereby causing cancer. Lectin acts as an antioxidant that helps prevent this condition.
Some scientists also suggest that this could be due to the Vitamin C content in bananas (Yes, Bananas do contain Vitamin C). The Vitamin C in bananas prevents cell and tissue damage, supports better absorption of iron, and boosts collagen for healthier skin, nails, bones, and hair.
Regulate the mood
The happy fruit also produces serotonin which helps regulate the sleep cycle, experiences of stress, and maintains a positive mood.
Though a common misconception with bananas is that dopamine helps you with a feel-good chemical for the brain. Scientifically, the dopamine in bananas does not cross the blood-brain barrier. It is merely a strong antioxidant instead of changing or altering mood or hormones.
Rich in antioxidants
Bananas are rich in dietary antioxidants and include dopamine and catechins. The antioxidant-rich nature also helps prevent wheezing in children due to asthma.
Bananas also contain tryptophan which is an amino acid that helps strengthen memory and enhances an individual’s ability to remember and learn things.
These antioxidants provide multiple health benefits like a reduced risk of heart ailments and degenerative illnesses.
Exercise benefits
Bananas have a high mineral content and carbs that are easily digested.
Muscle cramps and soreness are common phenomena when you follow a regular exercise routine. Though the main reason remains unknown, the common theory sheds light on factors like electrolyte imbalance and dehydration for the issue. Some studies find bananas to be effective in treating the issue.
However, they also provide good support and help before, during, and after endurance exercises.
For those leading a fitness-centric lifestyle, there couldn’t be anything better than a fat-free and cholesterol-free source of energy!
MYTHS
AFTERTHOUGHT
All being said, bananas are the easiest to add to your diet!
Available all around the year, you can add them to a smoothie, your breakfast cereal or yogurt. Bananas make for an excellent ingredient for both flavoring and sweetening in baking and cooking. Other unconventional ways to include bananas in your diet are banana chips and even banana powder!
With sugar that is a good source of energy, bananas are a natural way to satisfy your sweet tooth.
Due to their thick and protective peeling, bananas hardly have any pesticide or chemical substances on them. What’s more, they are easily eaten and digested on the go!
We know just how beneficial bananas can be to your health and hence we’ve added them to our smoothies in just the right quantities so that you reap the benefits of good health while also making bananas taste like a delightful dessert.
