If you thought that bananas are only healthy ripe or cooked, then you’re wrong. Almost every part of the banana offers health benefits, and we should all eat them. They can be used to make soups, salads, herbal tea or even stir fries. The health benefits are discussed further below.
Bananas Cure Infections
Bananas contain a compound known as ethanol, which is anti-microbial and kills bacteria in infected body parts, thus helping treat wounds. Ethanol is also very effective in minimizing the chances of a person contracting the parasite-borne diseases like malaria.
Bananas Reduce the Risk of Anaemia and Diabetes
Bananas are rich in fibre and iron, which can raise hemoglobin levels and reduce blood sugar. Bananas can also increase energy, while the fiber reduces the speed at which food is broken down and stops spikes in blood sugar, which can lead to diabetic complications.
Bananas Support and Regulate Menstrual Cycles
They contain progesterone, an important female hormone which prevents excessive bleeding during the menstrual cycle. When progesterone levels are raised, excess bleeding is controlled and the menstrual cycle often becomes more regular. Bananas also help reduce the risk of polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS).
Bananas Reduce Anxiety and Depression
Bananas are very rich in magnesium mineral salt. Magnesium improves one’s mood and lowers stress levels and anxiety with no side effects. This also promotes a more restful sleep.
Bananas Fight Free Radicals in the Body
Free radicals are dangerous because they attack and damage healthy cells and cause premature aging and cancer. There are antioxidants in bananas, mostly tannin and flavonoids, which fight free radicals and prevent the damage they cause.
Bananas Help Digestion and Gastrointestinal Health
The soluble and insoluble fibers in bananas help digestion problems including upset stomach, heartburn, constipation, abdominal pains, bloating and poor digestion. Insoluble fibre bulks the stool and soluble fibre speeds up the digestion process. Together, they promote healthy digestion and improve the rate of absorption.
Bananas Promote a Healthy Heart
Bananas have high levels of potassium, acids and antioxidants which help protect the heart. Potassium acts as an antidote to high-sodium diets, while the other components reduce blood pressure and remove oxidative agents, which are a major risk in contracting a cardiac disease.
Bananas Help Breastfeeding
Bananas are rich in vitamins C, E and A and are thus a healthy source of nutrients. Consuming bananas reduces Parkinsons and Alzheimer diseases, which are neural disorders caused by free radicals.
