Ripe bananas are a great way to satisfy your sweet tooth. But did you know that bananas provide numerous health benefits as well? Here are some of them:

Bananas are highly nutritious fruits

Bananas boast an impressive nutrient profile. One ripe, medium-sized banana contains the following:

• Calories – 105 kcal
• Carbohydrates – 27 g
• Fiber – 3.1 g
• Protein – 1.3 g
• Magnesium – 31.9 mg
• Phosphorus – 26 mg
• Potassium – 422 mg
• Vitamin C – 10.3 mg
• Folate – 0.02 mg
• Beta carotene – 0.03 mg
• Alpha carotene – 0.03 mg

Bananas also contain small amounts of essential B vitamins including riboflavin and niacin. Together, these nutrients, minerals and vitamins contribute to various body functions, such as metabolism, respiration, digestion, bone development and cell repair. Plus, due to its low-calorie content, a banana can also boost your energy levels without the addition of fats, cholesterol and sodium.

Bananas support digestion

Bananas are also high in dietary fiber, which can regulate your bowel movement. If you often experience indigestion, constipation or diarrhea, you may need to eat more fiber-rich foods starting with bananas. One medium-sized banana gives you nearly 10% of your daily fiber requirement. It also provides vitamin B6, which can aid weight loss and reduce the risk of Type 2 diabetes.

Dietary fiber also helps a person stay full for a long time, thereby discouraging cravings and overeating.

In Ayurvedic medicine, bananas are also used to stimulate stomach acids, which play an essential role in digestion and metabolism.

Bananas promote heart health

Adequate fiber intake can also reduce high cholesterol levels, which is closely linked to hyperlipidemia, cardiovascular disease, stroke and heart attack. Fiber does this by preventing your intestines from absorbing excess sugar and LDL cholesterol, which can clog your arteries.

Bananas also contain high amounts of potassium, which helps keep your arteries free of cholesterol plaque.

Bananas help regulate blood pressure

The potassium found in bananas also regulates blood pressure and aids kidney functions. By preventing the accumulation of excess sodium, potassium lowers the risk of kidney stones, kidney disease and stomach cancer.

Plus, potassium also improves brain functions, such as memory and concentration.

Bananas prevent oxidative stress

Bananas contain several potent antioxidants, such as dopamine and catechins, that are linked to a lower risk of heart disease and age-related conditions. These antioxidants work hand-in-hand with the immune system to prevent cellular damage caused by free radicals.

Free radicals are unstable molecules that naturally occur as a byproduct of various metabolic processes. Antioxidants typically keep these molecules in check, preventing them from causing significant damage to cells, lipids, proteins and DNA. However, unhealthy lifestyle choices and eating habits may lead to an overabundance of free radicals.

To avoid antioxidant deficiency, include many fruits and vegetables in your diet, such as bananas, blueberries, strawberries, artichokes, kale, cabbage, beans, beets and spinach.

Bananas help relieve depression

Bananas may also be helpful in curbing symptoms of depression. This is due to the high amounts of tryptophan found in these fruits.

Tryptophan is an essential amino acid that the body transforms into serotonin, a mood-elevating neurotransmitter. High levels of serotonin can help a person feel more relaxed and happy. Serotonin can also significantly improve your quality of sleep. Therefore, people who have mood conditions or mental health disorders may benefit greatly from eating bananas.

Bananas are one of the most nutritious fruits worldwide. Stay healthy by eating a diet rich in fresh fruits and vegetables.

Sources:

Healthline.com

MedicalNewsToday.com