Here is a better recommendation for people who enjoy munching on bananas as a snack. This time, look for red bananas when you go fruit shopping. These are a variety of reddish-purple-skinned banana subspecies. They originated in South East Asia and are known scientifically as Musa acuminata 'Red Dacca'. Compared to the regular Cavendish banana, red bananas are often smaller and plumper, though some are substantially larger. Raw red bananas have flesh that ranges in colour from cream to light pink when they are ripe.
But why introduce them to your diet? You must consider red bananas' health benefits if this question concerns you.
Helps in reducing blood pressure
Potassium is abundant in red bananas; one little fruit provides 9% of the RDI. Due to its function in controlling blood pressure, potassium is a mineral that is crucial for heart health. According to research, increasing your intake of foods high in potassium may lower your blood pressure. It is also rich in magnesium, which also aids in blood pressure regulation.
Promotes eye health
Carotenoids, which are pigments that give red bananas their crimson skin, are found in them. Red bananas include two carotenoids that promote eye health: lutein and beta carotene. Age-related macular degeneration (AMD), an irreversible eye condition, may be prevented by lutein. Your body can transform beta-carotene into vitamin A, one of the most crucial vitamins for eye health.
A bunch of red bananas growing on plant, Image Source: Dreamstime
Strengthens immune system
Vitamins C and B6 are abundant in red bananas. These are necessary for maintaining a robust immune system. Red bananas include vitamin B6, vital in promoting immunity by raising the formation of white blood cells and immunological antibodies, which may be able to fend off viruses.
Works as an aphrodisiac and boosts fertility
Aphrodisiac foods enhance fertility and reproductive health. The intense aphrodisiac properties of red bananas are highly valued. They are believed to help women with menstruation by balancing their levels of reproductive hormones. It helps to support fertility and libido since it is an excellent source of beta-carotene and vitamin C. Additionally, foods high in zinc, a crucial mineral linked to male fertility, control testosterone levels, enhance prostate health, and give men greater energy.
Nourishing red bananas, Image Source: Happi Health@Facebook
Supports in weight management
The red banana is a nutritious addition to the weight watchers' diet plan since it is an excellent source of dietary fibre and essential nutrients. Being relatively low in calories and fat helps you feel fuller for longer, which reduces binge eating and quells hunger feelings. Aside from that, the goodness of fibre improves intestinal bacteria, reduces inflammation, and lowers the risk of obesity and other connected health disorders like as cardiovascular disease and diabetes.
Improves emotional health
Red bananas have been discovered to be beneficial in enhancing emotional well-being. Being vitamin B6-rich aids the body's conversion of tryptophan into serotonin, the happy hormone that helps with mental health issues, including despair and anxiety.
Also known as the Dacca banana, this fruit is a powerhouse of health benefits. It is readily available, cheaper on the pocket and loaded with many nourishing qualities. You have more reasons to swap your regular yellow banana with a red one for good.