Are you in the habit of eating a ripened banana because the image of one with dark brown spots isn’t appealing? Or because you thought a darkened one was rotten and inedible? You’re not alone. But, a spotted or darkened skin banana has a wealth of health benefits. We’ll show you how this underrated fruit helps the body thrive.
Bananas Are A Superfood
Every banana is a superfood. It’s packed with vital nutrients, natural sugars, dietary fiber, vitamins, and minerals. It’s a fruit that is one of the most consumed in the world.
A ripe banana contains tumor necrosis factor, which is a substance the fruit produces that aids in the prevention of oncological conditions. Additionally, it is recommended to eat a banana with spotted or darkened skin because it has much more of this protein in it.[1]
Choose The Right Banana For Your Health
Choosing a banana at the right stage of ripeness has even more health advantages. Here are a few that might surprise you:
- When it comes to matters of the heart, the banana is a rich resource of potassium. This mineral promotes heart health and normal blood pressure. A daily intake of 1.3 to 1.4 grams is optimal and lowers the risk of heart disease by 26%.[2]
- It keeps your stomach healthy. A banana is easy to digest and has two essential dietary fibers. As a sidenote, an unripe banana is high in resistant starch, a type of fiber that may also promote colon health.[3]
- This tropical fruit can stabilize diabetes. It’s high in starch and sugar but has a low glycemic index. When people with diabetes include it in meals, it’s best to keep track of daily intake. Consume it in moderation — especially if it’s well-ripened.[4]
- Regular consumption of a banana can improve your mood. It contains a large amount of dopamine, known as the “happy hormone”. It helps to increase energy, prevent sadness, and maintain a positive mindset.[5]
Do you usually go for the yellow-green or unripe banana? Consider the health benefits of the spotted or darkened one instead. Your body will love your for it.
Reference
| [1] | ^ | Jstage: Differences in Biological Response Modifier . . . Strain and Maturity of Bananas |
| [2] | ^ | Authority Nutrition: https://authoritynutrition.com/foods/bananas/ |
| [3] | ^ | Authority Nutrition: https://authoritynutrition.com/foods/bananas/ |
| [4] | ^ | Authority Nutrition: https://authoritynutrition.com/foods/bananas/ |
| [5] | ^ | Dr. Axe: Banana Nutrition, Concerns, Benefits & Recipes |
