Bananas : Health benefits to Eat them daily

Written by : Healthpind Staff
Reviewed by: Mónica Sayuri Ramos Imuro

Which is one fruit that can instantly boost your energy? Indeed, it is the humble “banana. “It is so delicious and yet so healthy. The yellow-colored fruit is a favorite throughout the globe, and you may eat it raw and ripe. Unripe banana, cut into slices, is used in many dishes. Either as a part of the breakfast menu or a snack, the banana never disappoints. It is much better than sugar-rich or deep-fried snacks. Bananas are even better than many energy drinks in providing you with energy. Two bananas can keep you charged for an hour’s workout. Plus, they are easy to grab and readily available.

Bananas can also provide you with many essential nutrients and minerals. They can support a healthy digestive tract and prevent heart conditions. They can also fight depression, make you wise, and help you control diabetes. Many phytoactive substances in bananas may act as antioxidants. This fruit has so many health benefits that you must undoubtedly add it to your daily diet.

Here are some evidence-based health benefits of Bananas:

Potassium is a vital mineral for your body. It is said to have several health benefits, including regulating heartbeat and blood pressure. The mineral can also keep your brain alert and improve your circulatory system. There is a positive relationship between the intake of potassium-rich foods and reduced risk of stroke in the elderly. The sufficient presence of this mineral helps maintain proper water balance in your body.

Bananas’ high Potassium content certainly makes them a superfood. You must add bananas to your daily diet, and you may have them at breakfast or as a snack.

Our body cells are under attack from various free radicals. These free radicals are electron-rich molecules that are generated during normal metabolism. They react with different organic molecules, including DNA, RNA, and proteins. The reactions alter the body’s molecules and result in various diseases. Bananas contain many phytochemicals, including dopamine and catechins, that act as potent antioxidants.^[1]

These antioxidants in bananas act as a scavengers and neutralize the free radicals in your body. They can help you avoid diseases like heart and degenerative diseases. Antioxidants can also delay the signs of aging. ^[2]

Lowered insulin sensitivity plays a vital role in developing type 2 diabetes. In this condition, the body tissues fail to respond to insulin resulting in increased blood sugar levels. Research studies have shown that intake of about 30 grams of resistant starch daily may improve insulin sensitivity by as much as 50% in a month.^[3]

Unripe bananas are a rich source of resistant starch. Eating 2 or 3 unripe bananas daily may help people with type 2 diabetes.

A banana is a perfect food for you if you are an athlete. They are particularly rich in essential minerals and have easily digestible carbohydrates. Dehydration and electrolyte imbalance during exercise may result in muscle cramps and soreness. Having bananas can help get rid of exercise-related conditions. ^[4]

Bananas are also among the best nutrition providers during and after endurance exercises. They provide high-grade fuel to keep your body engine running during physical stress.^[5]

Bananas are a great source of dietary fiber. A medium-sized banana provides about three grams of fiber. It is about 10- 12% of your daily fiber requirement. Both soluble and insoluble fibers play a beneficial role in your health. Soluble fiber, such as pectin, is found in bananas. It helps to regulate your blood sugar and lower cholesterol in your body. Insoluble fiber present in the unripe banana is resistant to digestion. They add weight to your stool and relieve constipation. Bananas act as a natural laxative and also restore regular bowel movements. ^[6]

Additionally, some studies say that pectin in bananas may also protect against colon cancer. ^[7]

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