ANDREEA GROZA

We are talking about the banana. Find out more right now. On "Wellness Doctor".

Why should we rekindle our friendship with the banana after accusing it of causing weight gain for years? First of all, because the banana has 100 calories, just a little more than a slice of bread. Because it is alkaline and does not stimulate the appetite.

A 120g banana has 25g of carbohydrates; the less ripe it is, the more starch it contains, not sugar. And more importantly, it provides magnesium and potassium, essential minerals for the proper functioning of the nervous, cardiovascular, muscular, digestive and urinary systems.

Banana is the fruit that contains natural tryptophan, a serotonin precursor with a calming effect, providing a sense of well-being at the cerebral level.

The association with vitamin B6 favors the synthesis of serotonin and the conversion of carbohydrates into glucose, stabilizing blood glucose levels. So, the banana calms both the mind and the appetite! Bananas are easily digestible and do not cause allergies; they are the ideal choice for diversifying infant nutrition, the perfect snack for children and a source of energy for athletes.

How should a banana be? Ripe, but not too much, with green ends and a yellow middle. However, an unripe banana has the advantage of regulating digestion and treating diarrhea. The starch and pectin it contains have a prebiotic effect, repairing and regenerating the intestine. It is a special type of starch that cannot be absorbed, but reaches the colon and is used as a nourishing substrate for colonies of beneficial bacteria that ensure digestive balance.

Banana is a climacteric fruit that ripens even after being harvested. The degree of ripeness does not affect the caloric content, but changes the glycemic index: from 35 for green bananas, it increases to 50 for well-ripened bananas. The amount of pectin and resistant starch is higher in green bananas, the taste is bland, and they are harder to digest. On the other hand, ripe bananas contain more sugar, they are sweeter and easier to digest.

It's hard to say what the ideal banana is, but remember: bananas are good for hunger, energy, silhouette and well-being!