We all eat bananas in our breakfast, meals, or as a snack. But do you eat its peel too? If yes, then you must be a…. Must be a clever guy. Because many of us throw it straight into the trash without a second thought. Without the thought that it may contain nutrients and health benefits. Today, we will unveil some amazing banana peel benefits for health and also some creative ideas to use them. So, before the next banana peel goes to the trash bin, you must read to discover those surprising banana peel benefits and ideas in which this ordinary peel can benefit you. You’ll never look at a banana peel the same way again!
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Nutritional Value of Banana Peels
You always think that the fruit this peel protects contains all the nutrients and this is just the trash. But in fact, banana peel is a nutrient powerhouse on its own. It is packed with essential vitamins and minerals, a great source of vitamins C and B6, magnesium, and potassium, and high in dietary fiber, perfect for those who prefer a balanced diet. And that is the most amazing thing, banana peel has more antioxidants than the banana itself and has the potential to remove harmful radicals from the body. By adding this peel to your diet, you are not only reducing food waste but also adding vital nutrients to your diet.
Banana Peel Benefits:
Banana Peel Benefits for Heart Health
Banana peel benefits are not just limited to your dietary needs, they also offer various benefits for your heart health. They contain a good amount of potassium, which is well-known for its regulation of heart function and blood pressure levels. These are also a good source of soluble fiber which helps to lower the levels of LDL, “the bad cholesterol”. From all this, it is helping in reducing the risk of heart disease. The peel also contains antioxidants that help in the prevention of heart disease by fighting oxidative stress.
Banana Peels for Glowing Skin
Ladies who love their skins, listen up! The banana peel benefits are for your skin too. As they are packed with antioxidants and enzymes, these peels can naturally nourish and revitalize your skin. Its antioxidant content can slow your skin’s aging, while its antimicrobial properties can help in fighting acne-causing bacteria. But that’s not all. The peel’s moisture-rich fiber also helps to naturally hydrate your skin, and reduce dryness and flakiness.
And a pro tip for you ladies: try rubbing the inside of a banana peel on your skin for an instant soothing effect. To maximize these banana peel benefits, simply integrate the peel into your skincare routine. Remember, your journey to healthier and glowing skin could just be a banana peel away!
Improving Digestive Health with Banana Peels
Not only for the skin, this peel also enhances your digestive health. This can be your gut’s best friend, as it is loaded with dietary fiber which helps in smooth digestion and prevents constipation. It improves bowel movement, which again supports your gut health. It promotes the feeling of fullness, helping to control overeating, which in turn promotes a healthy weight. It also contains prebiotics which support a healthy microbiome. But it’s not all, it can also help your gut to remove harmful bacteria, as it has antimicrobial properties. So don’t appreciate it just for enhancing your outer beauty, it also supports your inner health.
Banana Peels as an Excellent Source of Mood-Boosting Compounds
Are you a moody one? Often get upset about small problems. The most amazing of banana peel benefits is it can boost your mood instantly. Yes, it is rich in the amino acid tryptophan, which the body converts into serotonin – a neurotransmitter that’s known by the name “feel-good” hormone. It’s also a good source of magnesium that has calmer effects on your nervous system. Also, the vitamin B6 found in peel helps in the production of mood-enhancing hormones. Thus this peel enhances not only your skin but also your mood!
Read: Nutrient-Packed ABC Juice: Recipe, Benefits & More
Innovative Ways to Use Banana Peels
Here are some innovative ways to use banana peels:
Plant-Based Pulled Pork Sandwich
Creating a plant-based pulled pork sandwich using banana peels involves soaking the peels in water to rehydrate them, then cooking them in a slow cooker with other ingredients to create a plant-based meat alternative. The process may sound unusual, but it has gained popularity in recent years as a delicious alternative to traditional pulled pork. The banana peels provide a unique texture and flavor that can fool even meat lovers.
To make a plant-based pulled pork sandwich using banana peels, follow these steps:
- Soak the banana peels in water for about an hour to rehydrate them.
- Drain the water and place the peels in a slow cooker.
- Add your preferred vegetables, grains, or other ingredients to the slow cooker to create a flavorful base.
- Cook the ingredients on low for 6-8 hours, or until the peels are tender and can be easily shredded.
- Shred the cooked peels and mix them with your favorite BBQ sauce or seasoning.
- Serve the plant-based pulled pork sandwich on a bun with additional toppings, such as vegan mayonnaise, lettuce, or tomato.
Get Rid of Marks and Scuffs on Your Shoes
The inside of a banana peel can be used to clean your shoes and remove marks. Surprising! This natural method is an eco-friendly alternative to commercial shoe polishes and can help you keep your shoes looking their best.
To remove marks and scuffs from your shoes using a banana peel, follow these steps:
- Hold the inside of the banana peel against the marked or scuffed area of your shoe.
- Gently rub the peel in a circular motion until the marks and scuffs start to fade.
- Clean the banana residue with a clean cloth.
- Buff the shoe with a soft cloth to ensure a shiny and mark-free finish.
Blend Them into a Smoothie
Peel in your smoothie will enhance the smoothie’s fiber and nutrients. Peels are edible and safe to eat and will add a unique flavor to your smoothie. To add peel to your smoothies, follow these steps:
- Cut the banana and peel into small chunks.
- Add banana chunks and peel to blender.
- Add milk or water, and the other ingredients, like fruits, vegetables, or protein powder.
- Blend the ingredients until smooth.
- Pour in a glass and serve immediately.
Brew Some Sleepy Tea
The peel also contains potassium and magnesium which enhances mood and improve your sleep quality. Do you want to drink its tea to improve your sleep? Let’s make it.
- Boil some water in a kettle or pot.
- Add the peel to boiling water and let it steep for 5-10 minutes.
- Remove the peel from the pot.
- Pour your tea into your mug.
- Add sweetener or milk (optional)
- Take it 1-2 hours before going to bed to improve sleep quality.
Read: 15 Foods to Avoid with gallbladder issues (and What to Eat Instead)
Face Mask
I told you earlier, it can brighten your face, Here are the steps to make a banana peel mask.
- First, cleanse your face with a face cleanser.
- Next, gently massage the peel on your face and neck, but don’t massage on eyes.
- Leave it as it is for 15 minutes, it will allow all the nutrients to be absorbed into your skin.
- Remove the mask with a piece of cloth and then wash your face with water.
- Apply moisturizer.
Teeth Whitening
Let me tell you, if you rub the inner area of banana peel to your teeth, it will make your smile even brighter. It’s natural acids and enzymes will break your tooth’s plaque, making them whiter.
To use it for teeth whitening, follow these steps:
- Take the banana peel and cut it into smaller pieces.
- Wet them and then rub them on your teeth for about 2 minutes, focusing on the plagued areas.
- Wash your mouth with fresh water to clear the banana residue.
- Brush your teeth with a paste.
Cautions For Consuming Banana Peels
While banana peels are generally safe to eat, there are a few things to keep in mind:
- Always use organic bananas. Artificially grown bananas are often treated with pesticides, which can affect the banana.
- If you have never eaten banana peel or have just started, don’t take too much. Start by adding small amounts to your smoothies or dishes.
- Some people might be allergic to bananas, so you need to be familiar with your body. If you are used to eating bananas or never had any allergy to bananas, then you can add the peels to your diet freely.
With a little creativity and caution, you can easily get the benefits of banana peels. So next time, don’t throw your banana peels, just get creative.
Conclusion
So, next time you peel a banana, don’t throw away the skin! It has many health benefits and can also make your life easier in many ways. You can add it to smoothies, polish your shoes, or even help your skin to shine more! Remember, the peel isn’t just trash – it’s a little superhero on its own. So, get creative and unlock its power!
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