Green bananas are often overlooked in favor of their ripened, yellow counterparts. However, these unripe bananas have their own unique set of health benefits that make them a valuable addition to any diet.
- Rich in Resistant Starch
Green bananas are an excellent source of resistant starch, a type of starch that resists digestion and acts as a prebiotic in the gut. This can help promote the growth of healthy gut bacteria and improve digestive health. Resistant starch has also been linked to improved insulin sensitivity, which can help regulate blood sugar levels.
- High in Vitamins and Minerals
Green bananas are a good source of vitamins and minerals, including vitamin C, vitamin B6, and potassium. Vitamin C is an important antioxidant that can help boost the immune system, while vitamin B6 is essential for proper brain function. Potassium is important for maintaining healthy blood pressure and heart function.
- May Improve Heart Health
The high levels of potassium in green bananas can help lower blood pressure and reduce the risk of heart disease. Additionally, the resistant starch in green bananas has been shown to reduce levels of triglycerides and LDL cholesterol, which are both risk factors for heart disease.
- May Aid in Weight Loss
The resistant starch in green bananas can also help with weight loss. Resistant starch acts as a soluble fiber, which can help increase feelings of fullness and reduce overall calorie intake. Additionally, the low glycemic index of green bananas means they won’t cause a rapid spike in blood sugar, which can lead to overeating and weight gain.
- May Boost Brain Function
The vitamin B6 in green bananas is important for proper brain function, and the resistant starch can also help improve cognitive function. One study found that consuming resistant starch improved mental performance in adults.
Incorporating Green Bananas into Your Diet
There are many ways to incorporate green bananas into your diet. They can be sliced and added to salads or smoothies, boiled and mashed as a side dish, or even sliced and fried as a healthy snack. Green banana flour is also available and can be used as a gluten-free alternative to traditional wheat flour.
Overall, green bananas are a nutritious and delicious addition to any diet. Their high levels of resistant starch, vitamins, and minerals make them a valuable food for improving digestive health, heart health, and cognitive function, among other benefits. So next time you’re at the grocery store, don’t overlook these unripe fruits – they may just be the key to better health.
See this Deliscious Green Banana Smoothie