Bananas are nature’s convenience food. They provide potassium, vitamin B6, vitamin C, manganese and fibre, including prebiotic fibres and, in slightly green bananas, resistant starch.
Wellness
Heart health A medium banana provides around 10% of an adult’s daily potassium, which helps regulate blood pressure.
Energy for exercise Bananas are a perfect pre- or post-workout snack, with easily digested carbohydrates and potassium.
Mood and nerves Bananas are a good source of vitamin B6, which your body uses to make serotonin and other brain messengers. They are a lovely part of a mood-supporting diet, though they won’t treat depression on their own.
Digestive health Bananas provide fibre and prebiotics that feed your good gut bacteria. Ripe bananas are gentle on an upset tummy.
Blood sugar Slightly green bananas have a lower glycaemic index than very ripe ones. If you are managing diabetes, choose a small, just-ripe banana and pair it with protein, such as yoghurt or nut butter.
PMS Vitamin B6 has some evidence for easing PMS symptoms, and bananas are a tasty source.
Kidney health Potassium-rich diets are linked with a lower risk of kidney stones. (If you have kidney disease, ask your doctor how much potassium is right for you.)
Weight management
A medium banana has around 440 kJ (105 calories) and 3 grams of fibre, making it a satisfying, naturally sweet snack that helps curb the urge for processed treats.
Beauty
Hair mask Mash a banana with a little olive oil, leave on for 30 minutes, then rinse and wash as normal for soft, shiny hair.
Hand mask Mash banana with a little cream, pop on some cotton gloves for 15 minutes, then wash off. It smells good too!
Skin from the inside Vitamin C helps make collagen, and B6 supports healthy skin. For pimples, eczema or psoriasis, see your GP or pharmacist rather than relying on banana peel.
Cooking with bananas
Freeze them and cook with them the darker and squishier the better for cooking.
Modern up the Classic old banana split with some golden milk icecream, toasted almonds, chia seeds and caramelised honey.
Sticky banana & date pudding with maple syrup and creamed ricotta.
Tempura bananas with toasted seeds, coconut and lime dipping sauce.
Muffins with Banana, cream cheese, cooked pearl barley and cacao nibs.
“So remember the Banana is beneficial not boring, just don’t go bananas”
This article is general information about food and wellbeing, not medical advice. Please talk to your GP or a qualified health professional about any health condition, medication or major change to your diet.
