Bananas are one of the most popular fruits in the world, but how much do we actually know about this yellow delicacy? In this article, we share 7 fun facts about bananas that may surprise you!
Lots of Pesticides
And now the reasons why you shouldn’t just eat a banana peel right away. The cultivation of the Cavendish banana leads to environmental pollution due to the use of a large amount of pesticides. Cavendish bananas are very susceptible to diseases and fungi and are extensively treated with pesticides both during and after harvest. This is bad for the environment, and also for humans. The pesticides remain in the peel, and it is advisable to wash your hands after eating a banana. An option is to buy organic bananas.
Even the Peel is Edible!
Did you know that the peel of a banana is edible and even very healthy? However, read the next banana fact if you’re going to eat the peels.
The peel of a banana is full of useful nutrients. These include vitamin B6, B12, potassium, and magnesium. Moreover, the banana peel contains phytochemicals, which are antioxidants that are also common in so-called ‘powerfoods’. We could actually consider the banana peel as a ‘superfood’ in itself.
Another advantage of eating the peel of a banana is that it contains a large amount of fiber. These fibers ensure that you feel full for longer, reducing the need to eat. This can contribute to a healthier eating pattern and possibly weight management.
Bananas are Actually Berries
Although we often consider them a fruit, bananas are botanically berries. In the botanical world, berries are defined as fruits that come from flowering plants with multiple ovaries and contain their seeds internally.
The small black dots in the well-known Cavendish banana will not produce a plant if you plant them. However, wild banana species do contain larger seeds in their flesh. Similarly, pumpkins, melons, tomatoes, and cucumbers can be considered berries.
Why Just One Banana a Day?
Although bananas are healthy, it’s important to have a balanced and varied diet. Too much of any one type of food can lead to an excess intake of certain nutrients and a deficiency in others. Moreover, as mentioned earlier, bananas contain natural sugars. While these sugars are not as harmful as added sugars, it’s still important to monitor their intake. One banana a day is a good guideline to ensure variety in your diet and to ensure that you’re not consuming too much natural sugar.
Are Bananas Healthy?
Bananas contain many important nutrients, such as vitamin C, vitamin B6, potassium, magnesium, and fiber. These nutrients can contribute to a healthy heart, good digestion, a strong immune system, and a good energy balance. Bananas are also a good source of quick energy due to their natural sugars, making them an excellent choice for a snack.
Bananas are Radioactive (but don’t worry!)
Bananas naturally contain a small amount of potassium-40, a radioactive isotope of potassium. However, the amount is so minimal that it poses no health hazard.
The Banana Plant is Not a Tree
Although the banana plant looks like a tree, it is actually an herbaceous plant. The “trunk” of the plant is actually a pseudostem, formed by overlapping leaves.
