Bananas are one of the most popular and widespread tropical fruits. Some people like them well ripped, while others prefer them green. But no matter the level of ripeness- they taste great and offer us plenty of health, as well as skin and hair benefits.
This article will guide you through the nutritional value of bananas and will show you how these delicious fruits can improve the look of your skin and hair.
Let’s dive in!
How nutritious are bananas?
Many people believe that bananas are the most unhealthy fruits, because they are high in carbs and (naturally occurring) sugars. However, not many people emphasize the fact that bananas are low in fats (yet, some varieties contain healthy omega 3 and 6 fatty acids), cholesterol-free, and are packed with fiber, vitamins and minerals, including [1] :
- Vitamin A
- Vitamin C
- Vitamind B5 and B6
- Folic acid
- Choline
- Calcium
- Iron
- Magnesium
- Phosphorous
- Potassium
- Zinc
- Polyphenols
- Flavonoids
Are bananas good for your skin?
A 2012 paper published in the Journal of Pharmacognosy and Phytochemistry suggests that topical and dietary use of bananas can be associated with various skin benefits. [2]
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Relieve mosquito bites
Rubbing a banana peel on a mosquito bite may reduce irritation and itchiness.
- Get rid of warts
Placing banana peel on the affected skin area and securing it with a band aid may help you to fade and reduce the appearance of warts. Yet, you have to be persistent with this treatment, as its effect is not quick. For quick result, consult your health provider or a board-certified dermatologist.
-
Anti-wrinkle treatment
Regularly using mashed banana as a face mask for 20 minutes, or mixing banana paste with coconut oil could diminish the appearance fo wrinkles and fine lines.
-
Relieve skin allergies
Applying a paste of mashed banana and milk for 2-3 days on skin areas affected by allergies (dermatitis, hives, rash, eczema) can help you relieve irritation. However, keep in mind that bananas as natural ingredients that can cause further irritation to people with very reactive and sensitive skin.
-
Face bruises
Securing a banana peel with a bandaid to cover the bruised skin area and leaving it for a few hours or overnight may help you fade bruises and heal your skin naturally.
-
Improved photo-protection
Evidence suggests that topical application and dietary use of vitamin C, which can be found in bananas, may improve the skin’s resilience to UV rays, diminish the damage caused by free radicals (pollution, sun radiation, smoking, malnutrition, etc.), and improve the water-retention mechanism of the skin. [3]
-
Moisturized skin
Vitamin A in bananas supports proper skin cell production. This way, this micronutrient may play a role in strengthening the skin barrier, improving water retention mechanism and additionally moisturizing the skin. [4]
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Less scars
The pantothenic acid (vitamin B5) in bananas is an important nutrient for skin health. It supports skin cells repairing process, makes the skin mosturized and supple, reduces inflammation, and improves elasticity. [5] Those properties can be associated with less visible scars and stretch marks in the long run.
What are the benefits of bananas for hair?
Topical application and dietary use of bananas can also be related to various hair benefits [6]:
-
Improved hair elasticity
The combination of vitamins and potassium in bananas can improve the hair elasticity and prevent breakage and split ends.
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Shinier hair
Banana consumption can make you hair thicker, more shiny, and flexible, due to its vitamin B5 content.
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Longer hair
Vitamin B5 in bananas can improve the condition of damaged hair, moisturize it, and stimulate healthy growth. This way, bananas can help you in the maintenance of long and healthy hair.
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Less hair loss and dandruff
Topical use or consumption of bananas could strengthen the scalp, moisturize it, improve it’s replenishment and, as a result, support the health of hair follicles. This can decrease hair loss and reduce dandruff caused by damaged scalp. [7]
How much banana to eat a day?
Following the USDA guidelines for fruit consumption, the recommended daily intake of fruit is between 1 and 1.5 cups per day. [8] Of course, the exact portion depends on your age, sex, physical activity, and health condition, but sticking to about 1 cup of bananas per day (as part of a diverse and balanced diet) can provide you with optimal beauty benefits.