We all know that bananas are bursting with goodness. They’re filled to the brim with potassium and low in salt, making them great for anyone at risk of high blood pressure or a stroke and they boost digestion.
Plus, they contain plenty of iron, protect against muscle cramps during workouts, reduce swelling and even can help overcome depression due to high levels of tryptophan, which is converted into serotonin – the happy-mood brain neurotransmitter.
But it’s not just the banana itself that’s good for you. According to health nuts, the skin could be the latest “superfood”. If you can call it a food.
Although it’s usually chucked in the bin rather than eaten, scientists reckon the peel could aid weight loss and boost your immune system AND your mood.
“It contains high amounts of vitamin B6 and B12, as well as magnesium and potassium, and some fibre and protein,” Laura Flores, a San Diego-based nutritionist, told LiveScience.
Vitamin B6 helps the body’s immune system do it’s thing, improving the health or your brain and heart, and it normalises blood sugar levels. B12 also supports and brain and nervous system while antioxidents found in the skin can help speed up your metabolism – brilliant if you’re trying to lose a few pounds.
But that doesn’t mean it tastes good. Anyone who’s ever had a nibble of a banana skin will know that it’s not exactly moreish.
The easiest (and nicest tasting) way to eat it is by cutting it up and grinding it into a powder to add to your morning smoothie. Chuck in a load of other strong tasting foods, to counteract the taste of the peel and you’ll find yourself a whole lot healthier in no time.
But vegetarians be warned; most banana skins aren’t considered suitable for vegetarians as a spray-on coating designed to lengthen the fruit’s shelf life is thought to contain chitosan – a bacteria-fighting compound derived from shellfish.