Bananas are among the world’s most popular fruit.
They are highly portable and easy to consume, making them a perfect on-the-go snack.
Bananas are also fairly nutritious, and contain high amounts of fiber and antioxidants.
However, many people have doubts about bananas due to their high sugar and carb content.
This article takes a detailed look at bananas and their health effects.
Bananas Contain Several Important Nutrients
Over 90% of the calories in bananas come from carbs.
As the banana ripens, the starch in it turns into sugar.
For this reason, unripe (green) bananas are high in starch and resistant starch, while ripe (yellow) bananas contain mostly sugar.
Bananas also contain a decent amount of fiber, and are very low in protein and fat.
Many different types of bananas exist, which causes the size and color to vary. A medium-sized (118 grams) banana contains about 105 calories.
A medium-sized banana also contains the following nutrients:
- Potassium: 9% of the RDI.
- Vitamin B6: 33% of the RDI.
- Vitamin C: 11% of the RDI.
- Magnesium: 8% of the RDI.
- Copper: 10% of the RDI.
- Manganese: 14% of the RDI.
- Fiber: 3.1 grams.
Bananas contain other beneficial plant compounds and antioxidants as well, including dopamine and catechin.
For more details on the nutrients in bananas, this article contains everything you need to know.
Bottom Line: Bananas are a good source of several nutrients, including potassium, vitamin B6, vitamin C and fiber. They also contain various antioxidants and plant compounds.
Bananas are High in Fiber and Resistant Starch
