No other fruit is like the banana. There are many varieties, but it is the famous Cavendish that has the most fans. A breakfast staple for many people, the banana is gentle on the digestive system and pairs wonderfully with a multitude of desserts. In addition to offering an excellent potassium content, this exotic fruit is a source of vitamins C, B6 and B9, manganese, iron, copper and magnesium. It is even considered a natural aid for anti-stress!
Benefits for the stomach
Regular consumption of bananas could protect the stomach lining against the potential formation of gastric ulcers. It could also alleviate certain diarrhea conditions.
Its flesh, which is unlike that of any other fruit, is an excellent source of resistant starch and pectin, which help maintain good gastrointestinal health and better digestion. These sources of fiber protect against the appearance of bad cholesterol, and help prevent cardiovascular problems.
Rich in antioxidants
The sweet banana, also called the dessert banana, contains dopamine, which acts as an antioxidant. Combined with the vitamin C naturally contained in this fruit, the antioxidant action is reinforced. The banana is also a source of tryptophan, a stimulating amino acid that contributes to a good mood!
Ripe or not?
The banana is said to be a climacteric fruit, because it continues to ripen after picking. This is due to the presence of ethylene gas, a plant hormone that it naturally contains.
While you can recognize a sweet banana by its bright yellow peel, the same is not true for the plantain, which is eaten green and is good for cooking as it contains highly resistant starch.
If you have to eat the sweet banana some time after peeling it, it is recommended to brush it with lemon, which will limit browning by oxidation. Another tip: never store bananas in the refrigerator. This tropical fruit hates the cold and its taste would quickly be altered.
A worldwide crowd-pleaser
The banana is one of the most consumed fruits in the world. Cultivated for more than 10,000 years, it is native to Africa and Asia. Although we find them in our grocery stores all year round, they are fully ripe in the plantations from October to January. It is now cultivated in several other countries, in South America in particular. In 2021, the world production of bananas reached 125 million tons.
A nice boost for athletes
An excellent source of energy and vitamins, the banana is indispensable for athletes, providing a good quantity of carbohydrates necessary to counter fatigue. In addition, the vitamin B content facilitates the metabolism of carbohydrates. It also helps reduce cramps and good muscle recovery.
Plantains
Plantains, also called green bananas, are a cooking banana. It is commonly found in the cuisine of southern countries, served like fried potatoes.
Plantains contain the same vitamins and minerals as sweet bananas. They are also a good source of beta and alpha-carotene, which are converted into vitamin A in the body, beneficial for the formation and maintenance of healthy bones and teeth, while also contributing to the health of the skin. Plantains contain more resistant starch than sweet bananas, making them easier to cook.
SOURCES :
https://www.passeportsante.net/fr/Nutrition/EncyclopedieAliments/Fiche.aspx?doc=banane_nu