Health benefits of banana: The best fruit to nourish skin and boost health

Bananas have antibacterial properties that can help reduce acne breakouts and inflammation when applied topically. (Image: Canva)

Banana is Packed with essential vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, bananas offer a myriad of benefits that promote radiant skin and well-being. Let’s look at it benefits:

Moisturising: Bananas contain natural oils and water that can moisturise the skin, making it softer and smoother, says Rashmi Mittal, skin and wellness expert and founder of Let’s talk nourishment.

Anti-aging: The vitamins and antioxidants in bananas can help fight free radicals that cause skin aging, reducing the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines, Mittal adds.

Acne treatment: Bananas have antibacterial properties that can help reduce acne breakouts and inflammation when applied topically.

Exfoliation: The enzymes present in bananas can gently exfoliate the skin, removing dead skin cells and promoting cell turnover for a brighter complexion.

To use bananas for skin care:

-Mash a ripe banana and apply it as a face mask. Leave it on for about 10-15 minutes before rinsing off with lukewarm water.

-Mix mashed banana with other skin-friendly ingredients like honey, yogurt, or oatmeal for added benefits.

-Always do a patch test before applying any new ingredient to your skin, especially if you have sensitive skin or allergies. If you experience any irritation, discontinue use.

Banana’s impact on health:

Blood sugar regulation: Bananas contain soluble fibre and resistant starch, which can help moderate blood sugar levels after meals and regulate appetite by slowing stomach emptying, says Hyderabad based endocrinologist Radhika Rao. While they generally don't cause major spikes in blood sugar levels in individuals without diabetes, moderation is advised for those with diabetes.

Digestive health support: The dietary fibre in bananas, including resistant starch and pectin, promotes regular bowel movements, prevents constipation, and supports beneficial gut bacteria. Pectin may aid in preventing constipation and softening stools, potentially offering protection against colon cancer.

Potential aid in weight management: Although direct evidence is lacking, bananas are considered potentially weight-loss-friendly due to their low- calorie content, high nutritional value, and filling nature. The fibre and resistant starch in bananas may help control appetite and reduce meal frequency and size.

Antioxidant-rich: Bananas are packed with antioxidants like flavonoids and amines, which combat oxidative damage caused by free radicals, says Rao. Antioxidants offer numerous health benefits, including reducing the risk of heart disease and macular degeneration.

Potential improvement in insulin sensitivity: Regular consumption of resistant starch found in unripe bananas may improve insulin sensitivity, making the body more responsive to insulin, a hormone crucial for blood sugar regulation.

Kidney health support: Bananas are a rich source of potassium, essential for healthy kidney function and blood pressure management, Rao adds. Adequate potassium intake has been linked to lower blood pressure and slower progression of kidney disease.

Nutrient-rich: Bananas are loaded with essential vitamins and minerals such as vitamin B6, vitamin C, manganese, and potassium, which play crucial roles in various bodily functions like energy production, collagen synthesis, and immune system support.