In the last few years, we have seen a shift towards environmental conservation and sustainability. Conversations around these topics are now quite common, as people seek to save resources right from when they begin the day, and in as many ways as possible. The kitchen is one surprising source of plenty of food waste that we don't realise can actually prove quite useful. Take vegetable and fruit peels for instance - we usually end up throwing them away but did you know they are actually a surprising and potent source of good health? Bananas, for example, are known to be one of the most fulfilling and healthy fruits, but not many are aware that even the peel of a banana can prove to be extremely beneficial for our body.
Surprising Health Benefits Of Banana Peels You May Not Know Of
Banana peels are usually discarded after consuming the humble fruit, but experts suggest that you could benefit from it in myriad ways. There are certain amazing health benefits that are provided by banana peels that may surprise you. So, before you discard those peels, remember these!
Here Are 5 Surprising Health Benefits Of Banana Peels:
1. Help In Weight Loss
Experts often suggest that banana peel is an excellent source of dietary fibre. Those who are watching their weight are advised to add more fibre to their diet, and banana peels are a great way to do that. The fibre in banana peel keeps you full for longer and also staves off digestive issues including bloating and acidity.
2. May Lower Blood Pressure
Banana peels are enriched with vitamins B6 and C, as well as minerals like potassium, magnesium, and manganese. Potassium especially is a well-known mineral that helps regulate high blood pressure levels by countering the effects of sodium.
(Also Read: This Robot Can Peel A Banana Without Squishing It, And Twitter Has Questions)
Banana peels can be extremely beneficial for those with high blood pressure. Photo: iStock
3. Reduce Acne
Looking for an instant remedy for unwanted acne and pimples? Banana peels may prove to come to the rescue. According to experts, the direct application of banana peels to your skin can drastically improve acne. Further, it may also help fight off other skin-related issues such as dark spots, wrinkles, itching, rashes and blemishes.
4. Rich In Antioxidants
Antioxidants are found in abundance in banana peels, thus helping fight off damage from free radicals and reversing the ageing process. Since banana peels also have plenty of Vitamin C, they provide a boost to immune health as well.
5. Provides Pain Relief
Banana peels, by their very nature, are antiseptic and anti-inflammatory. Applying the banana skins to the affected areas could prove extremely efficient in pain reduction. Banana peel, in this case, is probably even more beneficial than the fruit itself.
(Also Read: Not Just The Fruit, You Can Use Every Part Of Banana Plant To Make Delish Food)
There are some cases where banana peel may be more nutritious than the fruit itself. Photo: iStock
Can We Eat Banana Peels? How To Use Banana Peels In Cooking
Consuming banana peels raw may be difficult, which is why it is best to incorporate them into various dishes and recipes. You could add it to cookies and cakes and make them healthier and tastier. Simply dehydrate the banana peels, grind them to a fine powder and add this flour to whatever baked goodies you are making. Further, you could also use banana peels to make a vegan version of bacon strips!
Click here for the recipe for banana peel chutney.
Find the full recipe for banana peel bacon here.