3 Dietitians Say 1 Banana a Day Can Aid Gut Health for Many People
Updated
Updated · AOL · Aug 21
3 Dietitians Say 1 Banana a Day Can Aid Gut Health for Many People
3 articles · Updated · AOL · Aug 21
Summary
Three registered dietitians said bananas can support gut health for many people, with about 1 banana a day generally enough to help digestion, bowel regularity and beneficial gut bacteria over time.
Within hours, bananas may ease heartburn and affect stool consistency: unripe bananas' Resistant starch can help bind loose stools, while ripe bananas' soluble fiber can soften stools and relieve constipation.
Pectin and resistant starch act as prebiotic fibers that feed gut bacteria; over longer periods, experts said that may improve fullness, blood sugar control and inflammation, with green bananas potentially better tolerated in some IBD cases.
Responses vary by person and ripeness, and bananas can also cause gas or bloating—especially if several or concentrated green-banana products are added quickly.
Dietitians said bananas should complement, not replace, a varied diet, and people with late-stage kidney disease or diabetes should be mindful of intake.