26 July 2025

The Benefits and Properties of Bananas

Bananas are a fruit widely known in Indonesia. Banana fruit can be enjoyed in various ways: eaten raw, fried, steamed, or mixed with other ingredients. But bananas are not only delicious, they also have many benefits.

1. Helping to Overcome Hypertension
   The potassium found in bananas helps regulate fluid and electrolyte balance, keeping blood pressure stable. The dietary fiber in bananas can bind to fats, thus preventing plaque formation. Plaque can narrow or even block blood vessels, leading to increased blood pressure.

2. Source of Carbohydrates and Vitamin A
   Bananas are rich in vitamins and fiber. Compared to apples, bananas contain more than twice the amount of carbohydrates and five times the amount of vitamin A. Additionally, bananas are also rich in magnesium and potassium, which are essential for maintaining good health.

3. Bananas Aid Metabolism
   No need for medication. Eating bananas can help those who have difficulty with bowel movements. Bananas assist in the smooth removal of waste products in the body's metabolic process.

4. Boosting Immunity
   Are you active and enjoy exercising? The vitamins A, C, and B6 in bananas help boost the immune system to fight infections, keeping the body feeling fresh and not easily fatigued.

5. Improving Oxygen Flow to the Brain
   Bananas are rich in potassium, a mineral that is crucial for heart function and blood circulation. This ensures oxygen circulation to the brain, preventing strokes caused by high blood pressure.

6. Overcoming Anemia
   Another important component of bananas is iron. This fruit is beneficial for people with low red blood cell counts, as it helps in the formation of hemoglobin, the iron-containing protein.

7. Weight Loss
   For those on a diet, the complex carbohydrates in bananas do not cause a drastic spike in glucose levels. Additionally, bananas are low in fat, making them safe for those on a weight loss program.

8. Promoting Bone Health
   Consuming bananas regularly can help promote bone health. Bananas are one of the fruits with a relatively high manganese content.

9. Bananas as "Mood Food"
   Can food make people feel happy? Yes, if the food is considered "mood food," which encourages the production of serotonin in the brain. This hormone causes feelings of happiness.

10. For Skin Care
    Bananas mixed with honey are effective in treating overly dry skin. This is also beneficial for aging skin, which tends to become drier. Additionally, bananas are good for treating acne.

Reviewed by : dr. Innosensius Ibnu Ishwara, M.K.K.

Source : Ministry of Health' Health Article

Photo : freepik.com