12 Benefits Of Banana On Health & Its Side Effects

Banana is one of the most popular and appealing fruit in the world. Eating a banana a day keeps us safe from many health risks and bring a protective impact on health.  This curvy yellow fruit comes from an arborescent perennial herb. It is also known as a berry. Being rich in nutrition, Banana aids in weight loss, lowers blood sugar level, reduces swelling, strengthens the nervous system, and has many more benefits. Researchers have shown that an unripe banana as well as the banana with black spots at the end of its life is both nutritive and beneficial for health.

Benefits of Banana On Health

1. Good for heart

One of the many benefits of Banana on health is that it helps in maintaining a healthy heart. Being rich in fiber, potassium, folate and, antioxidants like vitamin C, Banana is very good for heart. Studies have shown that people consuming high fiber diets have a lower risk of cardiovascular diseases as they have less bad cholesterol than those who consume lower fiber diet.

2. Aids in weight loss and digestion

One banana contains nearly 10% of the daily dietary fiber requirement. Fiber is effective at inducing bowel movement; it removes digestion problems like constipation. They are sweet in taste and make a person feel full for a longer time, thus helping to curb craving and reduce weight. Also, it is rich in starch which increases the production of fatty acids in guts, required for effective health.

You can have banana protein smoothie in the morning.  This is a terrific alternative for a detox drink that also serves as a pre-workout small meal in the morning. It’s high in proteins and nutrients, so it’ll keep you going all day. It also burns fat and keeps you in shape while aiding in muscle building. You can also discover more weight loss drinks to have in the morning and night for fast weight loss. 

ALSO READ: 24 Best Weight Loss Foods To Lose Weight Without Dieting & Exercising

3. Cures asthma

Foods rich in antioxidants and potassium prevent respiratory problems like asthma, especially in children. Banana is rich in both the content and improves lung functions.

4. Enhances mood & aids sleep 

Banana is known to remove depression and anxiety. It is a refreshing and energetic fruit. Due to the presence of a high level of tryptophan which gets converted into serotonin in the body, it elevates the mood. It is also known to provide proper sleep.

5. Strengthens bones

Banana contains a large amount of fructooligosaccharides, which are a type of non-digestive carbohydrates. It increases the ability of the body to absorb calcium thus making bones strong. Vitamin C also helps to strengthen bones. It is also rich in potassium which promotes microbiota making bones strong.

6. Improves eye health

Studies have found that eating a banana daily improves eye health and prevents vision-related diseases. Fruits rich in vitamin A help in maintaining normal eyesight and improves night vision.

7. Banana benefits for skin

As Bananas and their peels are rich source of anti-oxidants, they have a revitalizing effect on the skin and help repair damaged cells. Vitamin A in the bananas helps in removing dark spots and scars from the skin. Even the banana peels are great for treating acne. Being rich in Vitamin B, Bananas help in protecting skin from harmful free radicals and premature aging. You can definitely try banana face mask for glowing and healthy skin.

8. Banana Benefits for hair

Being high in moisture content, Bananas are excellent for nourishing hair as well. You can make simple hair moisturizing mask with mashed bananas. Being rich source of potassium, bananas can help you get rid of dark circles and unwanted eye bags. Additionally, banana peel can be used to relieve itchiness from irritations such as mosquito bites or skin rashes. Mashed bananas have also been used as a home remedy for irritated or overly dry skin.

9. Banana benefits for pregnant women

There are many reasons bananas are a great food choice for pregnant women. Being rich source of folic acid, banana can help in making extra blood your body needs during pregnancy. Additionally, bananas have a high iron content that helps prevent anemia. As Banana is rich in fibre, it avoids constipation. Banana is a healthier alternative for chemical laxatives.

10. Banana increases stamina & focus

Bananas contain three different types of sugars: glucose, fructose, and sucrose. As glucose and fructose quickly absorb into the blood, they provide an immediate energy boost. And, the third type of sugar – sucrose – is absorbed slowly and thus keeps blood sugar levels stable so that they never peak and abruptly drop. Hence, it protects us against the sugar crash that can be a result of other sweet foods, like soda. This longer-lasting energy supply from bananas is great for increasing stamina and endurance.
Potassium acts as fuel for the brain and magnesium helps us to focus better. Hence, many recommend bananas to be a perfect snack before exams due to their ability to promote concentration.

11. Banana prevents Prostrate Cancer in men

The magnesium and manganese found in bananas are also extremely beneficial for male health, as they both help the body maintain a healthy prostate. A deficiency in either has been shown to put the individual at a higher risk of developing prostate cancer.

12. Other Benefits Of Banana On Health

Bananas also help to prevent macular degeneration, an incurable condition, which blurs central vision.

Are banana peels edible?

Yes, banana peels are totally edible if prepared correctly. They are highly rich in potassium and fiber. To eat it up – first, give it a good wash, then remove the stem and try blending it into a smoothie or frying it or baking it. Banana peels are not at all poisonous and packed with a lot of nutrients. The peel has various bioactive compounds. In taste, it is not as sweet as a banana but a bit bitter.

What are the Side Effects & Health Risks of consuming Banana?

There are no side effects for consuming banana if taken in moderation. However, if taken in excess, few side effects may arise. Side effects of overconsumption of banana may include bloating, gas, cramping, nausea, vomiting, and softer stools. In adverse cases, banana can also cause headaches and sleepiness. The amino acid in banana may dilute blood vessels if taken in large quantities.

Some people may also have allergies to banana, they should strictly avoid the intake of banana. As banana is a sweet, sugary fruit too much intake may cause bad tooth and dental problems.

Studies have shown that potassium overconsumption can lead to hyperkalemia, which is characterized by muscle weakness, temporary paralysis, and an irregular heartbeat. Banana contains a significant amount of potassium.