Bananas are not only delicious, they also have a lot of different nutrients that our bodies need. Bananas are well known for their high potassium content, but they also have lots of calcium, iron, and magnesium, all of which are important to maintaining health and a good immune system.
Did you know that you can get different health benefits from eating bananas at different stages of ripeness? For example, green bananas are helpful if you’re trying to keep your blood sugar in check. Since they are low on the glycemic index, these green bananas make for a great snack for those who must pay close attention to their body’s sugar levels. Young and green bananas also lead to a longer period of satiety.
Next on the list is the firm, yellow banana without any spots. This is the classic banana that most people think of when picking out a bunch of bananas at the store. They are a little sweeter than the green banana, and full of good things for your body! For starters, yellow bananas are easy on the stomach, so they are a good choice if you’re having trouble keeping food down. Plus, when a banana is fully yellow, the antioxidants contained within are able to protect our bodies from various diseases.
If you wait a little longer and your yellow banana starts to get some brown spots, don’t worry! This banana is also rich in antioxidants and a great choice for patients who are currently fighting off tumors. The brown spots are actually a positive indicator. This means that the banana will help to break down various cells in the body, especially abnormal cells that are known to cause cancer.
While bananas that are brown and squishy may not be the most appealing to our senses, they do offer a variety of health benefits. A banana of this color tends to be far more sugary than their lighter counterparts. They contain tryptophan, which reduces stress and anxiety. They are also rich in various nutrients that promote muscle and bone health.
Now that you know all about the different colors of bananas and their varying health benefits, pass it along to family and friends! Whether you eat bananas for the taste or for the health benefits, there’s no doubting what an awesome fruit this is!