Bananas are incredibly delicious. They are very good sources of important vitamins and minerals.
One medium-sized (about 118 g) green banana contains:
• Fiber: 3.1 g
• Potassium: 12% of the recommended daily intake
• Vitamin B6: 20% of the recommended daily intake
• Vitamin C: 17% of the recommended daily intake
• Magnesium: 8% of the recommended daily intake
• Copper: 5% of the recommended daily intake
• Manganese: 15% of the recommended daily intake
All of this contains only 105 calories, of which more than 90% come from carbohydrates. In addition, green bananas are very low in fat and protein. Here are the main benefits of green bananas:
Green bananas are filling and reduce appetite
Green bananas are very filling, because of their high fiber content. Persistent starch and pectin in them contribute to the feeling of satiety after eating. Thanks to these fibers you will eat much less food, which, in turn, will help you lose weight.
Green bananas improve the health of the digestive system
The nutrients in green bananas also have a prebiotic effect. Instead of being broken down, resistant starch and pectin feed the beneficial bacteria in the gut. Bacteria cause these two types of fiber to ferment, producing Butyrate and other beneficial short-chain fatty acids. Short-chain fatty acids can help with various digestive problems.
In addition, there is some evidence that they help protect us from colon cancer.
Green bananas have a beneficial effect on blood sugar levels
High blood sugar levels are a major health problem. If left untreated, over time, they can cause not only type 2 diabetes, but also an increased risk of other serious conditions.
Both pectin and persistent starch in green bananas can help control blood sugar, especially after a meal.
Can green bananas be unhealthy in any way?
Green bananas are generally considered extremely healthy. However, there are various complaints from people who experience discomfort after consuming them. Symptoms affect the digestive tract and include bloating, gas and an upset stomach.
If you have bananas on hand, we recommend trying one of our recipes for banana sponge cake or banana pudding.
