Health Benefits of Plantains
By Madhusudhan Tammisetti
Plantains are closely related to bananas and are sometimes confused with them. However, in some of the 120 nations that produce a large portion of the world's plantains, such as Uganda, Cameroon, and Colombia, people are aware of the differences. Plantains are more adaptable as a culinary ingredient because they are starchier and the sugar content is less than bananas. Plantains, unlike bananas, are usually prepared before consumption.
Plantain trees thrive in humid, tropical environments. The flowers of the tree grow into a group of five to 10 fruits. Plantains may grow in any season, and thus they are accessible throughout the year. As a result, they are a particularly important and consistent food supply for impoverished nations.
As 15 percent of worldwide output is traded, and the remainder is eaten locally in the nations where they are cultivated, plantains are, in reality, the world's 10th staple food today.
Plantains aren't as abundant in the United States as in other countries, but they may be found in most big grocery stores. Plantain is a nutrient-dense fruit that's high in minerals and vitamins and may be used as a rice or potato alternative.
May Control the Digestive System
Fiber has a significant impact on the digestive tract and is essential for its proper functioning. A cup of plantains has about a quarter of the daily fiber requirement of 25 to 30 grams. Plantains improve digestion since they are rich in fiber.
According to a study conducted by the University of Kentucky, eating plantains may help with different digestive problems, including diverticulitis.
Fiber makes your stomach feel full and that might help you lose weight. As a result, increasing dietary fiber intake may aid in weight reduction in obese people. Soluble fiber may aid in the reduction of blood pressure and cholesterol, and help in reducing the risk of heart disease. Fiber may also assist in keeping blood sugar levels in check.
Reduces Free Radicals
When your body digests food or when you're exposed to toxic factors such as cigarette smoking or radiation, free radicals are formed and they contribute to cancer, aging, and illnesses. Vitamin C has antioxidant properties that protect the body from the harmful effects of free radicals.
Plantains contain more than 35 percent of the daily Vitamin C requirement, making them one of the greatest Vitamin C foods available. Because the body can't retain or synthesize Vitamin C, it's critical to get the daily required quantity.
Vitamin C aids in the growth and repair of tissues throughout the body. It plays a role in the formation of a protein that is critical for the development of blood vessels, skin, ligaments, and tendons. It also helps in the maintenance of bones, cartilage, and teeth.
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