Plantain: Health Benefits of Plantain

 Plantain And Its Important Health Benefits

Plantains might look like overgrown bananas but I’m here to tell you that it is far from that. Much more tasteless (when unripe) and starchier than bananas, plantains are leguminous plants. They can be found in tropical parts like some parts of Asia and a majority of Africa.

Plantains are often or mostly cooked before consumption. It can be prepared in various forms. It can be fried, boiled, and even pounded ( Especially in parts of Africa). Plantain can be prepared into a host of delicacies.

Plantains are nutritious plants that are very similar to potatoes in terms of calories. Plantains are rich in fiber, Vitamins A, C, and B6, minerals, and potassium.

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Health Benefits of Plantain

Plantains contain a host of benefits and required calories that are necessary for healthy body function. These benefits are numerous but I’ll just mention a few.

1. Digestive Health ( Gut Health)

Plantains contain resistant starch and Fiber. Firstly, these resistant starch acts as a prebiotic. Prebiotics help in encouraging the growth of healthy bacteria in the colon. While the fibers on the other hand help to improve bowel movement and function.

2. Helps with controlling blood pressure.

Plantains contain potassium. Potassium is essential for the proper functioning of the heart, muscles, and also the nerves. Eating a potassium-present diet helps with regulating blood pressure which can also reduce the risk of stroke.

3. Presence of Antioxidants.

Vitamin C is present in plantains. Vitamin C acts as an antioxidant that helps in boosting the immune system. Consuming plantains provides our bodies with Vitamin C which is really essential.

4. Weight control and maintenance.

The Starch that is contained in plantain is called complex carbs. Fibers and complex carbohydrates are less processed and therefore digested slower than simple carbohydrates. Therefore, these complex carbs keep you fuller and more satisfied which in turn reduces a feeling of hunger and also cravings for sweet and unhealthy meals.

Plantain-based meals

Plantains can be eaten in various forms. As I said previously, Plantain can be taken boiled, fried, and even pounded. It can also be eaten with stews, soups, or sauces. Some plantain-inspired meals include plantain chips, plantain frittata, plantain bread, Plantain swallow (Fufu; which is typically eaten in Nigeria. Can be eaten with soups or sauces), fried plantains (either ripe or unripe.) plantain is very versatile and can be made into different kinds of dishes. Most plantain dishes are really easy to prepare and they take less of your time as well.

Including new healthier food in our diets is always a good idea. If you are looking for a really healthy option, try including plantains in your everyday diet.