Musa acuminate is the scientific name for red bananas, also referred to as “Red Dacca” in popular culture. The rich nutritional profile of red bananas is responsible for their health advantages. They are a variety of banana found in Southeast Asia. They taste like raspberries and have a crimson outer peel.
According to folk medicine, red bananas can help heal a number of conditions, including kidney stones and osteoporosis. Being nutrient-rich, they can also help you maintain a high level of energy.
Nutrient-Dense
100g of medium red bananas contain 75% water. It has 2.6 g of fibre and contains little fat .
It has a low glycemic index and is a good source of nutritious carbs (22.84 g). It provides steady bloodstream energy release and is a good immediate energy source.
It contains important minerals that contribute to maintaining a good electrolyte balance, such as potassium (358 mg), magnesium (27 g), phosphorus (22 mg), calcium (5 mg), and iron (0.26 mg).
Vitamin C (8.7 mg), thiamin (0.031 mg), riboflavin (0.073 mg), niacin (0.665 mg), vitamin B6 (0.3 mg), folate (20 g), and choline (9.8 mg) are just a few of the key minerals it provides.
Beta-carotene (26 g) and lutein + zeaxanthin (22 g) are two more antioxidants.
Could Aid in Managing Diabetes
Research has shown that enhancing glycemic control is essential for managing diabetes. The abrupt surge in blood sugar levels can be lessened by eating foods with a lower glycemic index.
According to a study, red bananas’ low glycemic reaction may be advantageous for those with diabetes. Red bananas are particularly helpful in this area since they reduce the activity of the enzymes glucosidase and amylase, which are involved in the creation of glucose.
Could Possess Antioxidants
Phenols and vitamin C are plentiful in red bananas. Three banana cultivars were compared in order to show their antioxidant activity.
Free radicals that may otherwise harm cells are scavenged by antioxidants. Excessive free radical production can cause oxidative stress, which in turn raises the risk of metabolic diseases like diabetes, heart disease, and cancer.
Carotenoids, anthocyanins, and flavonols are all present in red bananas. The high carotenoid content of red bananas is another explanation for their antioxidant qualities. According to studies, red bananas have a higher antioxidant content than their yellow cousins.
Might Reduce Blood Pressure
Potassium is plentiful in red bananas. It is generally known that potassium helps to regulate blood pressure and lowers the risk of developing cardiovascular disease. When a person has hypertension, increasing their potassium intake lowers blood pressure.
Could Promote Eye Health
Lutein and zeaxanthin are abundant in red bananas. It has been discovered that these carotenoids can prevent age-related macular degeneration. Beta-carotenoids are also present in red bananas. These are precursors of vitamin A, and they work best when consumed through food.
Healthy vision depends on vitamin A . Night blindness can be caused by a vitamin A deficiency . More research is nevertheless required to fully comprehend how red bananas’ vitamin A contributes to better vision and eye health.
Could Help Your Immune System
Numerous antioxidants found in red banana help boost defences. Additionally, they are a great source of vitamins B6 and C. According to research, vitamin C may enhance immunity. Further research is required in this area, but there is evidence that it can lower the risk of infection.
Could Enhance Digestive Health
Red banana have historically been used to cure a variety of digestive problems, such as diarrhoea, bloating, and constipation. According to studies, bananas’ high fibre (or resistant starch) content may facilitate easier bowel motions.
In general, banana have prebiotic qualities. They may contribute to the gut microbiome’s betterment. They enhance the population of the beneficial bacteria that convert fibre into nutrients. Oligosaccharides may also be present in red banana.
Might Encourage Weight Loss
Banana that are red are rich in minerals and fibre. They contain only a small amount of calories and fat. Fibre enhances satiety and may aid in weight loss. Additionally, fibre enhances intestinal flora and lowers inflammation. It promotes heart health and lowers the risk of developing obesity and other linked conditions including diabetes and cardiovascular problems.
Red banana low glycemic index and anti-hyperglycemic qualities contribute to the gradual release of sugar into the bloodstream. Additionally, this may lessen desires for meals.
Possibly Facilitates Nicotine Withdrawal
Minerals like magnesium have been proposed to assist relieve the symptoms of nicotine withdrawal, albeit the evidence is sparse. The mineral aids in reducing stress and low mood, two important risk factors.
Additionally, studies demonstrate a connection between dietary carotenoids and men’s reduced cigarette use and lung cancer prevention. More information is needed in this area, though.
Red banana may also offer some advantages for the skin and hair. Although more investigation is required to confirm these advantages, anecdotal evidence favours their use. We’ve covered some strategies for using red bananas to enhance the condition of your skin and hair in the area below.
Red Banana For Skin And Hair Benefits
Red banana have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant substances including vitamin C and carotenoids that delay ageing. Collagen is a vital part of the structure of the skin and hair, and vitamin C encourages its production.
Collagen can help with skin pigmentation and texture when applied topically. Red bananas may also be used to condition hair, according to rumours.
Mask for skin-brightening
You will require
- A ripe medium-sized red banana
- One spoonful of honey
Process
- To form a smooth paste, mash the banana pulp and stir in the honey.
- Distribute the mixture evenly over your face. After 20 minutes, wash.
- Repeat each day once.
Mask for hair conditioning
You will require
- A ripe medium-sized red banana
- Lemon juice, a couple drops
Yoghurt and olive oil both contain one tablespoon.
Process
- Combine all the ingredients and stir until a thick paste forms.
- Apply to the entire length of the hair.
- After 20 minutes, wash.
Three times each week, repeat.
Although red and yellow banana have similar nutritional profiles and health advantages, red bananas appear to have a little advantage. We’ll examine how the two vary in the section that follows.
Eating Red Banana: A Guide
When red bananas are ripe, they taste best. They can also be included in desserts like ice cream, fruit salads and smoothies as well as muesli for morning. Red bananas can be baked or fried and then eaten as savoury snacks.
FAQ
Can red bananas make you gain weight?
Due to their high fibre content, red bananas can help with weight management. The secret is to consume them moderately.
When should red bananas be consumed?
When red banana are ripe, they taste best. They can be consumed in the morning or at night. As they may take some time to digest in the evening, make sure you eat them at least 2 to 3 hours before going to bed.
Can we regularly eat red banana?
They can be eaten every day, but only in moderation. Two to three per day ought to be adequate.
Can diabetics consume red banana?
Red banana have a low glycemic index and are nutrient-rich. They contain a lot of fibre, too. As a result, they can benefit diabetics, but should only be ingested occasionally.
Can you eat red banana while you’re hungry?
Sure, go ahead. The negative effects of eating red bananas on an empty stomach have not been studied.
How does a red banana ripen?
Red bananas typically ripen in a day or two at room temperature. The procedure can be sped up by storing them in paper bags.
Do red banana give you a cold?
Antioxidant-rich red bananas may aid in boosting immunity. There is no evidence to support their ability to cause colds.
Are red bananas natural?
Yes, they are natural hybrids found in southeast Asia.
Red bananas are safe to eat when pregnant?
In general, red bananas are safe to eat while pregnant. They may be advantageous since they contain some folic acid. Before include them in your diet while pregnant, though, talk to a doctor.
Main Points
Red banana have antioxidants that support collagen development and enhance skin health. They are smaller and higher in vitamin C than yellow bananas. Red banana also aid in weight loss and digestion.
Red bananas go well with muesli, smoothies, ice cream and sweets.
