This article is reviewed by an expert
Bananas are one of the most popular fruits in the world, loved for their sweet taste and convenience. However, did you know that bananas are also a powerhouse of nutrients and have numerous health benefits? Ayurveda also recognizes the many health benefits of bananas. In this article, we will explore some surprising benefits of eating bananas.
Nutritional facts about Bananas
One serving, or one medium ripe banana, contains about 110 calories, 0g fat, 1g protein, 28g carbohydrates, 15g sugar, 3g fibre, and 450 mg of potassium. [8]
Bananas are the most beneficial to people with Vata and Pitta Doshas. Vata dosha tends to lead to dryness and/or deficiency of fluids while Pitta can cause fluids to burn away. The soothing, moist, hydrating effect of the bananas brings balance. However, people with Kapha dosha may experience an increase in Kapha dosha on eating bananas. [9]
Here are 15 Benefits of Banana
1. Rich in Nutrients
Primary Benefit: Bananas are an excellent source of nutrients, including potassium, vitamin C, vitamin B6, and fibre. [1]
Secondary Benefit: Ayurveda suggests that bananas can help balance the three doshas – Vata, Pitta, and Kapha – due to their nutritional content. [7]
2.Aid Digestion
Primary Benefit: Bananas help increase the production of digestive juices and enzymes.[3]
Secondary Benefit: According to Ayurveda, bananas are great for aiding digestion by helping relieve constipation and other digestive issues.[3]
3.Boost Energy
Primary Benefit: Bananas are an excellent source of carbohydrates. [3]
Secondary Benefit: Carbohydrates help boost your energy levels. Ayurveda recommends eating bananas as a mid-day snack to combat fatigue and boost productivity.[3] [6]
4. Relieve Stress
Primary Benefit: Bananas contain tryptophan, which is an amino acid that can help boost serotonin levels in the brain. Serotonin is a neurotransmitter that is associated with happiness and well-being. [3]
Secondary Benefit: Eating Bananas can promote help relieve stress and promote relaxation.[3]
5. Improve Heart Health
Primary Benefit: Bananas are rich in potassium, which is essential for heart health.[8]
Secondary Benefit: According to Ayurveda, potassium can help regulate blood pressure and prevent the risk of heart disease.
6. Reduce Inflammation
Primary Benefit: Bananas have antioxidants which can help neutralize free radicals and reduce oxidative stress.[4]
Secondary Benefit: Ayurveda suggests that bananas can help reduce inflammation in the body due to their high antioxidant content.
7. Relieve Menstrual Cramps
Primary Benefit: Bananas are rich in vitamin B6 [3] [2]
Secondary Benefit: Vitamin B6 can help regulate hormones and reduce menstrual cramps. Ayurveda recommends eating bananas during menstruation to relieve pain and discomfort.[3] [2]
8. Improve Brain Function
Primary Benefit: Bananas are a good source of choline, a nutrient that is essential for brain function.[3]
Secondary Benefit: Researchers say that eating bananas can help improve memory and cognitive function.[3]
9. Promote Weight Loss
Primary Benefit: Bananas are low in calories and high in fibre.[3] [2]
Secondary Benefit: This makes them an ideal food for weight loss. [3] [2] Ayurveda recommends eating bananas as a snack or adding them to smoothies for a healthy, filling snack
10. Strengthen Bones
Primary Benefit: Bananas contain several nutrients, including potassium, magnesium, and calcium, that are essential for bone health.[3] [4]
Secondary Benefit: Ayurveda suggests that eating bananas can help strengthen bones and prevent osteoporosis.[3] [4]
11.Relieve Itching
Ayurveda recommends using the inside of a banana peel to relieve itching caused by insect bites or other skin irritations. Simply rub the inside of the peel onto the affected area for relief. [2] [3]
12.Promote Healthy Skin
Primary Benefit: Bananas are rich in vitamin C, which is essential for collagen production and healthy skin. [3]
Secondary Benefit: Ayurveda suggests that eating bananas can help improve skin tone and reduce the signs of ageing. [3]
13. Prevent Anaemia
Primary Benefit: Bananas are a good source of iron, which is essential for red blood cell production. [4]
Secondary Benefit: Eating bananas can prevent anemia and improve overall blood health. [4]
14. Treat Acid Reflux
According to Ayurveda, bananas can help treat acid reflux due to their high pH value. Eating a banana can help neutralize stomach acid and reduce symptoms of acid reflux.[3]
15. Improve Vision
Primary Benefit: Bananas are a good source of vitamin A.
Secondary Benefit: Vitamin A is essential for healthy vision. Ayurveda suggests that eating bananas can help improve eyesight and prevent age-related macular degeneration.[1] [5]
FAQs
1. Are Banana and milk a bad combination?
As per Ayurveda, it is advised to refrain from consuming bananas with milk, as this combination may weaken the digestive fire (Agni) leading to indigestion, nausea, and a feeling of heaviness in the abdomen. Furthermore, it may generate toxic remnants (Ama) in the body due to incomplete digestion and worsen the Kapha Dosha, which may result in sinus problems, congestion, colds, and coughs.
2. Is Banana peel good for my face?
Rubbing banana peel on your face can help enhance its radiance and smoothness, thanks to the peel’s Snigdha (oily effect) and Ropan (healing) properties. It can also aid in retaining moisture, promoting faster skin healing, and providing a natural glow to your complexion.
3. Can I eat Bananas at night?
To prevent indigestion, cough, or asthma, it’s best to avoid consuming bananas at night as it can potentially worsen Kapha dosha. Additionally, bananas are a dense fruit that takes a while to digest, so it’s recommended to eat them at least 2-3 hours before bedtime.
4. Can I eat Bananas on an empty stomach?
Although bananas are considered a complete food, it is advisable not to consume them on an empty stomach due to their heavy nature (Guru property) which may hinder digestion and lead to conditions such as indigestion and acidity.
5. Can Bananas give me diarrhea?
On the contrary, consuming a raw banana can be beneficial during a bout of diarrhea as it contains the grahi(absorbent) property, which can aid in the absorption of nutrients and help control diarrhea.
In conclusion, the banana is a versatile and nutrient-rich fruit that offers many health benefits. Incorporating bananas into your diet can help improve digestion, boost energy levels, reduce inflammation, and promote overall health and well-being.
Disclaimer – This article is from a Health and Ayurveda perspective only.
Reference:
- Nutrition and Health benefits of ripe banana fruits
- Banana Medicinal Uses
- Traditional and medicinal uses of banana
- A Comprehensive Review on Phytochemical, Nutritional, and Therapeutic Importance of Musa Acuminate
- Journal of Ayurveda and Integrative Medicine
- Concept of Dietetics and its Importance in Ayurveda
- Ayurvedic Cuisine
- The Nutrition Source – Bananas
- A Review Article on Ahar Vihar According to Ritus in Ayurveda
