Healthy benefits for bananas

 

"Discover the top health benefits of bananas — packed with potassium, fiber, and vitamins that boost energy, support digestion, and promote heart health."

Nutrition facts of bananas

Bananas are nutrient-rich fruits that offer several health benefits. A medium banana provides about 105 calories, mostly from carbohydrates, including natural sugars like sucrose, glucose, and fructose. They are high in fiber and contain essential vitamins and minerals, including potassium (9% DV), vitamin B6 (25% DV), vitamin C (11% DV), magnesium (8% DV), copper (10% DV), and manganese (14% DV). Bananas are low in fat and protein, making them a healthy, energy-boosting snack that supports overall nutrition

A medium banana contains about 105 calories, with 90% coming from carbohydrates, most of which are natural sugars—sucrose, glucose, and fructose. Bananas are low in fat and protein but are rich in fiber, vitamins, and minerals. They also provide beneficial plant compounds and antioxidants, such as dopamine and catechin, which contribute to overall health.

The greener the banana, the higher the resistant starch

The carbohydrate content in bananas changes with ripeness. Unripe green bananas are rich in resistant starch, which behaves like soluble fiber and offers health benefits such as promoting weight loss, stabilizing blood sugar, and increasing satiety. Resistant starch also slows sugar absorption and may boost fat burning. In contrast, ripe yellow bananas contain mostly natural sugars.

Nutrients in banana chips

A 1-cup (72-gram) serving of banana chips is much higher in calories, fat, and sugar than fresh bananas. While they still provide some fiber, potassium, and other nutrients, the added oils and sweeteners make them a less healthy option. Compared to fresh bananas, banana chips are energy-dense and can contribute to weight gain if eaten in excess.

• Calories: 374
• Protein: 1.6 grams
• Carbs: 42 grams
• Fiber: 5.5 grams
• Sugar: 25 grams
• Total fat: 24 grams
• Saturated fat: 21 grams
• • • Saturated fat: 21 grams
• Potassium: 8% of the Daily Value (DV)
• Vitamin B6: 11% of the DV

 

While banana chips contain some fiber and a few vitamins and minerals, their high fat, calorie, and sugar content quickly outweigh these benefits. Being dehydrated and fried makes them highly palatable, which can lead to overeating.

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