Nutritionist urged not to throw away banana peels: what are the benefits

Banana peel is a rich source of vitamins B6 and C, potassium, and magnesium. Adding it to your meals will increase the nutritional value of the fruit, help support bowel function, and reduce the risk of developing type 2 diabetes.

According to nutritionist Susie Burrell, it also contains resistant starches, which are the most important for human health. They contribute to the normal functioning of the intestines as they nourish the "good" bacteria in the colon. In addition, resistant starch helps to increase the body's sensitivity to insulin, according to sbs.com.au.

Burrell adds that the banana peel is very dense and great for appetite control. However, she recommends boiling it before eating. If the bananas have been frozen beforehand, so that the peel has turned black and become quite soft, you can use it for a cake. It is also suitable as an ingredient for smoothies or banana bread.

A study conducted at the University of Los Baños in the Philippines and published in the International Food Research Journal showed that banana peel can be used as a thickener in the kitchen.

In addition, Taiwanese scientists have confirmed that it is rich in serotonin and can alleviate symptoms of depression. Boiling the peel and drinking this water as a tea or adding it to a juicer and drinking the juice at least a few times a week helps to increase serotonin levels and balance mood.

Caveats

However, more research needs to be done before the scientific community can definitively say that the peel of all types of bananas can be used to improve health. Until then, people can decide for themselves if they are ready to try it. In any case, it is recommended to rinse well before consumption to get rid of possible pesticides or chemicals.