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‘Best’ time to eat a banana to reap the most benefits, according to naturopathic doctor
Bananas are one of the most consumed fruits and a common diet staple. It boasts several health benefits, especially when eaten during certain hours of the day.
A naturopathic doctor reveals the ideal time to eat the fruit while explaining its impact on health at different stages of ripening.
‘Best time to eat a banana’ according to naturopathic doctor
Dr. Janine Bowring says banana is best consumed when it’s in season and has been locally grown. She recommends eating it in the morning or mid-afternoon to enjoy most benefits.
She advises picking a banana that’s not completely ripe and is green at the tip as it’s better for your digestive system.
The doctor claims the raw part of the banana has resistant starch which helps “feed” the good microbes in your gut, and improves your immunity.
She further claims the suggested type of banana during the day or mid-afternoon helps you maintain or lose weight.
The claim is backed by a study that notes the properties of a banana “lowers body weight and increases insulin sensitivity in a group of obese type 2 diabetics.”
The Native Banana Starch (NBS) supplements are considered a “cheap alternative to reduce body weight and improve glucose homeostasis on subjects with insulin resistance.”
Benefits depend on different stages of ripening
The stages of ripeness play an important role in determining the impact the fruit has on overall health. The doctor recommends eating it in the hot season to allow your body to absorb its nutrients.
The under-ripe or green part of the banana is an excellent source of probiotics, which is great for your gut.
The “barely ripe” stage is the doctor’s preferred type, as it’s high in fiber and contains lower sugar to stabilize the glucose level, compared to the later stages of ripening. The banana is high on antioxidants and good fiber when ripe, which is still better than the last two stages.
The very ripe banana with black spots isn’t as beneficial to your health as it is in earlier stages because by now, it’s low on vitamins and minerals.
Whereas, an overripe banana contains the highest amount of sugar and lowest fiber – not advisable owing to the negative effects it can have on the blood glucose level.
Dr. Janine Bowring is a Naturopathic doctor, best known for her presence on TikTok with over 983,000 followers. She has over 25 years of experience.
She graduated from the University of Waterloo with a Bachelor of Science in 1994 and earned her Doctor of Naturopathic Medicine Degree from the Canadian College of Naturopathic Medicine in Toronto, Ontario, Canada.
