Surprising Benefits of Green Bananas: 5 Ways They Boost Digestion and Aid Weight Loss

Bananas enjoy global popularity across the world, but in India, they are also cherished in their raw form. They can be prepared in several different ways involving stirring, frying, mashing etc. Green bananas can be also used in salads and dips. Despite not being the most flavorful option, green bananas are packed with essential nutrients. Indian food nutritionist, Lovneet Batra, recently shared the benefits of raw bananas on her Instagram. In her caption, she emphasized, “Don’t judge it by its taste! The benefits of green bananas may surprise you.”

Let’s take a closer look to fully understand the numerous advantages of green bananas.

Boosts Digestion

According to the nutritionist, green bananas can help restore normal bowel activity. They are rich in bound phenolic compounds, which have strong bioactivities including anti-cancer, anti-inflammatory, and cardiovascular disease ameliorating effects. Additionally, they have a prebiotic effect by surviving the stomach and promoting the growth of beneficial bacteria in the gut for a healthy digestive system.

Promotes Heart Health

Lovneet highlighted that green bananas are loaded with heart-friendly nutrients. Similar to ripe bananas and potatoes, they are excellent sources of potassium. Raw bananas are also rich in resistant starch, which can help maintain healthy blood sugar levels. The high potassium content in green bananas acts as a natural vasodilator, promoting muscle contraction and regulating blood pressure.

Diabetic-Friendly

Green bananas are not as sweet as yellow bananas and contain less sugar. The presence of pectin and resistant starch in green bananas can regulate blood sugar levels after meals. They also rank low on the glycemic index with a value of 30.

Loaded with Antioxidants

Antioxidants play a crucial role in protecting the body from free radicals and oxidative damage, thus maintaining cellular health. Green bananas are rich in antioxidants and also contain vitamin C, beta-carotene, and other phytonutrients that help reduce inflammation.

Aids in Weight Loss

The high content of resistant starch and pectin in green bananas can help control appetite and promote a feeling of fullness after meals. This increases satiety and allows for the reduction of excessive calorie intake, leading to effective weight loss.