By Chisom Ibemere
Plantain is a type of banana which is more starchy and less sweet than the banana. Unlike the banana, it must be cooked or boiled before consumption. It has a similar calorie content as potato with more vitamins and minerals. It has lots of Vitamin A, C and B6.
Plantain is known by some people as green banana but gives yellow colour when ripened. It is seen and used as staple food in Central and South America, Africa, Asia. It may be used in porridges, chips or fries.
Plantain is a nutritious food, it is rich in complex carbohydrates and fibre and digests easily. It is a staple food in numerous countries for millions of individuals. It has fibre that improves bowel movement, it add to the weight of the stool which makes it easier to be ejected. It keeps you full and prevents some health issues like hemorrhoids, constipation, diverticular diseases and other digestive problems.
Plantain contains a substantial amount of anti-oxidants which boost the immune system, helps fight free radicals that poses threat to the body and get rid of cancer related sickness.
Plantain contains potassium which improves the function of the cell and ensures the proper movement of fluid across the cells. It has a resistant starch, which is not easily digestible but helps to improve the gut health and promotes the good bacteria. The resistant starch which stands out in plantation works like a prebiotics.
Plantain especially unripe plantain is a great food for patients with type 2 diabetes because of its ability to control blood sugar level. It has a low glycemic index which means it doesn’t increase the blood sugar but keeps it under control.
Plantain is considered to have more potassium than banana. Potassium helps to reduce the level of sodium which is helpful to reduce high blood pressure which may lead to stroke, aneurysm and other cardiovascular issues.
Other amazing nutrients found in plantain includes Vitamins K, A, Copper and Iron.
