When it comes to bananas, most of us only reach for the sweet, ripe fruit. But did you know that unripe, green bananas are an excellent source of prebiotic fiber that can do wonders for your gut health? Here's everything you need to know about this underrated fruit.
What Are Green Bananas?
Green bananas, also known as unripe bananas, are the unripe fruit of the banana plant. They are typically green in color and have a starchy, slightly sour taste. While they may not be as sweet as ripe bananas, they are packed with prebiotic fiber that can significantly enhance your digestive health.
What Are the Health Benefits of Green Bananas?
Green bananas are a rich source of resistant starch, a type of fiber that resists digestion in the small intestine and passes through to the large intestine. There, it serves as food for the beneficial bacteria in the gut, promoting a healthy microbiome. This can lead to a variety of health benefits, including improved digestion, reduced inflammation, and increased insulin sensitivity.(1)
Here's a fun fact: green bananas actually contain more resistant starch than ripe bananas! As bananas ripen, the starch is converted into simple sugars, which give the fruit its characteristic sweetness. This means that if you want to maximize the prebiotic benefits of bananas, it's best to choose green ones.
In addition to their prebiotic benefits, green bananas are also a great source of vitamins and minerals. They are particularly high in potassium, which is essential for maintaining healthy blood pressure and cardiovascular function. They also contain vitamin C, vitamin B6, and dietary fiber, making them a nutritious addition to any diet.
How Can You Incorporate Green Bananas into Your Diet?
Green bananas can be eaten raw or cooked, depending on your preference. They have a starchy, slightly sour taste that pairs well with savory dishes. Green banana flour is another convenient way to incorporate the prebiotic benefits of green bananas into your diet.(2) It is a gluten-free alternative to wheat flour and can be used in a variety of baked goods, such as bread, muffins, and pancakes. It can also be found in our Organic Plant Protein + Prebiotics.
Green bananas may not be as sweet as ripe bananas, but they are a nutritional powerhouse. Incorporating them into your diet is a simple way to support the health of your microbiome.(3)
