Green Bananas: 7 Health Benefits Of Including Them In Your Diet
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Green bananas or raw bananas are among the few ingredients that is commonly consumed across a wide array of regions across India. While it is known that bananas are a powerhouse of nutrients, both – ripe and raw bananas have their own set of health benefits when included regularly in one’s diet. Raw bananas have a soft, grainy texture which makes them perfect to be used across a variety of savoury preparations from cutlets, curries and chips. An inexpensive yet nutritious way to ensure the intake of nutrients, eating raw bananas have the following advantages.

Digestive Health 

Raw bananas are rich in dietary fibre, which can aid in promoting healthy digestion and preventing constipation since it helps regulate bowel movements and supports overall gut health. The resistant starch present in raw bananas acts as a prebiotic, nourishing beneficial gut bacteria, which can enhance nutrient absorption and improve gut health.

Controlled Blood Sugar

Raw bananas have a lower glycaemic index compared to ripe bananas, which means they release sugar into the bloodstream more slowly as it helps with better blood sugar control, making them suitable for individuals with diabetes. The GI value of green bananas is usually 42, making them ideal for diabetics to consider as an option for snacking.

Healthy Heart

The fibre content in raw bananas can contribute to lower cholesterol levels by reducing the absorption of dietary cholesterol. Additionally, their potassium content supports healthy blood pressure levels, which is essential for cardiovascular health. Consuming green bananas in moderation is also linked to a decreased risk of heart diseases.

Aids Weight Control

The fibre in raw bananas can provide a feeling of fullness, reducing the tendency to overeat. This can contribute to weight management efforts by curbing hunger and promoting satiety. Due to its high-fibre content, consuming raw bananas as a snack in the form of tikkis or including it as a vegetarian accompaniment to rice or rotis, keeps one satiated for longer.

Improved Immunity

Raw bananas contain certain vitamins and minerals, such as vitamin C and vitamin A, that play a role in supporting the immune system. The vitamin C present in these green bananas shields against various chronic diseases as well as maintain electrolyte balance in our bodies.

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Bone Health

Raw bananas contain several essential minerals, including magnesium and manganese, which are crucial for maintaining strong and healthy bones.

Reduces Chronic Disease Risk

The antioxidants and phytochemicals found in raw bananas, such as dopamine and serotonin, have been associated with potential protective effects against chronic diseases, including certain types of cancer and neurodegenerative disorders.