Daily Times Nigeria Monday, October 12, 2015
L5 Nutrition
Eat
Bananas, Judith Frank-Edet
Banana delivers huge nutritional value; you’ve probably heard that before. But what you may have never heard of is the benefits of banana peels. After reading the following surprising benefits of banana peels, you will think twice before tossing any banana peel into the bin. Banana peels are the thick ropey-textured and green to yellow colored skin of bananas. Banana peels can be eaten raw or cooked to make it more palatable. There is a long list to the health benefits of banana peels but here are a few. Rich source of fiber Banana peels are rich in soluble fiber best known to promote healthy bowel movement and relieve constipation. It also helps you maintain a healthy weight, by making you feel full. Studies have also shown soluble fiber to reduce the risk of heart attacks and avert early onset of diabetes. Fight Cholesterol The soluble fiber contained in banana peel which is also in the banana flesh too helps in lowering cholesterol levels. Soluble fiber has been extensively studied and proven to reduce the levels of low density lipoprotein, LDL or ‘bad’ cholesterol. Depression Ripe Banana Peels are great for depression. According to a study at the University of Taiwan, Banana Peels are packed full of serotonin which boost your mood and help you feel happy. Studies show that if you eat two Banana Peels a day for three days you have a net increase of 15% in your serotonin level. Antioxidant Properties Banana peels contain polyphenols and carotenoids, which are phytochemicals with antioxidant properties. Studies have found that unripe banana peel contains more of these anti-oxidants than ripe banana peel. Protect your Eyesight Another antioxidant found in banana peel is ‘lutein’, is known to reduce oxidative stress and neutralize free radical damage in various organs, including the skin. But lutein is also known to provide nutritional sustenance to the eyes – by not only reducing the risks of macular degeneration and cataracts, but by also filtering out harmful UV rays from damaging the eyes, as well as protecting cells in the eyes from free radical damage. Researchers suggest a minimum of 6mg – 10mg is required daily to derive the benefits of lutein. So as you add up on your daily lutein intake with dark green leafy vegetables, spinach and fruit, why not throw in some banana peel as well to hit the mark? Reduces Wrinkles The inside of the banana peel could be used to moisten the face. It helps keep the skin hydrated and tightens the pores. This makes it softer and helps in reducing the small wrinkles. Make sure to wash the peel very well as some may have been sprayed with pesticide. Now when you eat your banana, eat the peel too.
eat the peels