Blog

The Top 5 Health Benefits Of Bananas

The Top 5 Health Benefits Of Bananas

Bananas are some of the most readily available and relatively inexpensive fruits. You can commonly see them hanging from the top of a kitchen fruit basket in most homes. Bananas happen to be an excellent choice if you want to include more potassium, vitamin C, vitamin B6, magnesium, and various antioxidants and polyphenols. This article aims to cover some of the many health benefits of bananas. 

Nutritional Profile

Bananas offer a fair amount of fiber, water, antioxidants, and complex carbohydrates, but they are low in protein and fat. One medium banana offers the following nutrients:

  • Calories: 112
  • Protein: 1 gram (g)
  • Fat: 0.4 g
  • Fiber: 3 g
  • Carbs: 29 g
  • Riboflavin: 7% of the daily value (DV)
  • Niacin: 5% of the DV
  • Vitamin C: 12% of the DV
  • Potassium: 10% of the DV
  • Folate: 6% of the DV
  • Magnesium: 8% of the DV
  • Copper: 11% of the DV

May Support Heart Health

Because one banana offers 10% of the DV of potassium, enjoying a banana day may help regulate blood pressure levels. Potassium is a vital nutrient for blood pressure management. In fact, a potassium-rich diet can help lower the risk of hypertension. A 2021 study found that people who consumed more than 3,000 milligrams (mg) of potassium per day had a 25% lower risk of cardiovascular disease than those who did not consume potassium. Bananas also contain magnesium, which is a mineral involved with heart health management. 

May Improve Kidney Health

Although potassium is vital for blood pressure regulation, it also plays a role in kidney function. A study from 2019 included more than 5,000 people with early stage chronic kidney disease. Study authors linked the consumption of potassium to lower blood pressure and a slower progression of kidney disease. That said, some people who have late-stage kidney disease or those on dialysis need to restrict their potassium intake. If you fall into either of those categories, consult your healthcare professional before you increase your potassium intake. 

Rich In Vitamin B6

Vitamin B6, or pyridoxine, is a water-soluble vitamin that is necessary for normal brain development and keeping the nervous and immune systems healthy. The vitamin B6 from bananas is easily absorbed by the body and can help with:

  • The production of red blood cells
  • Metabolizing amino acids
  • The removal of unwanted chemicals from the liver and kidneys
  • Metabolizing carbohydrates and fats for energy
  • Maintaining healthy nervous system function 
  • Benefitting fetal development in the womb (for pregnant women)

May Improve Blood Sugar Levels

Bananas contain soluble fiber, which dissolves into a liquid to form a gel during the digestive process. Unripe, or green, bananas also contain resistant starch, a type of fiber that the body does not digest. Together, resistant starch and soluble fiber can help regulate blood sugar levels after meals. Additionally, they may help regulate your appetite by slowing the rate at which the stomach empties. Even though bananas have a higher carb count, they may not cause blood sugar spikes in people with diabetes. A 2021 study noted that the glycemic index of bananas is 47 (low) and the glycemic load is 7 (low). 

Respectable Source Of Vitamin C

It’s not common to associate bananas with vitamin C, but a medium-sized banana provides 10% of the DV. Just keep in mind that a banana doesn’t offer the same amount of vitamin C as a kiwi, guava, or bell pepper, all of which offer an impressive amount. Vitamin C can help with:

  • Better absorption of iron
  • Protecting the body against cell and tissue damage
  • Collagen production, which is an essential protein necessary for optimal skin and bone health
  • Supporting serotonin production, which has an affect on sleep cycle, overall mood, and the ability to deal with stress and pain

  • You may also like

    • Dherbs Full Body Cleanse as featured on Steve Harvey
    • Enter to Win $100 Gift Voucher

    Sales & Specials

    Blue Sleeve Shirt V-neck
    Blue Sleeve Shirt V-neck
    -50%
    $9.97

    Blue Sleeve Shirt V-neck

    Feel relaxed and at ease when you put on this lightweight, breathable shirt that is built for all-day comfort.
    Heather Grey Shirt V-neck
    Heather Grey Shirt V-neck
    -50%
    $9.97

    Heather Grey Shirt V-neck

    The heather grey V-neck T-shirt - a lightweight, breathable shirt which offers a perfect blend of comfort and style, making it a versatile addition to any wardrobe.
    Grey Hoodie
    Grey Hoodie
    -50%
    $19.97

    Grey Hoodie

    A stylish and comfortable athletic grey hoodie, perfect for layering, casual wear, or light workouts.
    Blue Tight
    Blue Tight
    -50%
    $17.97

    Blue Tight

    Say hello to your new favorite pair of body-flattering leggings that give you a smooth silhouette and allow for full range of motion.
    Black Sleeve Shirt V-neck
    Black Sleeve Shirt V-neck
    -50%
    $9.97

    Black Sleeve Shirt V-neck

    Feel relaxed and at ease when you put on this lightweight, breathable shirt that is built for all-day comfort.
    Black Hoodie
    Black Hoodie
    -50%
    $19.97

    Black Hoodie

    Stay stylish and comfortable with this black crop top hoodie, a versatile and lightweight cropped athletic hoodie designed for casual wear and active lifestyles.
    Heather Grey Tight
    Heather Grey Tight
    -50%
    $17.97

    Heather Grey Tight

    The heather grey leggings offer a comfortable, form-fitting design perfect for both activewear and casual outfits. Body-flattering leggings that give you a smooth silhouette and allow for full range of motion.
    Black Tight
    Black Tight
    -50%
    $17.97

    Black Tight

    Dherbs' black activewear leggings give you a smooth silhouette and allow for full range of motion.
    Refer A Friend give 15%
    get $20
    Advisor