Wild flower, delicious and has many uses

Peace DNUM_ABZBBZCACD 09:33

Banana flowers can be made into many delicious dishes and contain substances that help stabilize cholesterol and blood sugar, good for the digestive system.

Many parts of the banana tree can be used to prepare food. Vietnamese people use banana flowers to make salads, side dishes, hot pot, stir-fries, and soups.

When preparing, remove the old leaves, cut the banana flower into small pieces and soak in a basin of water with a little salt for 20 minutes to remove the astringent taste and prevent darkening. Then, rinse with clean water.

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Almost every part of a banana tree can be used. Illustration: Seriouseats

Nutritional value

According toHealthline,banana flowerIt is rich in nutrients including antioxidants, minerals such as potassium, calcium, magnesium, iron, zinc and copper and small amounts of protein. It is low in calories and fat while providing equal amounts of insoluble and soluble fiber.

Soluble fiber combines with water to form a gel-like mixture in the gut, which can help lower cholesterol and blood sugar levels. Meanwhile, insoluble fiber prevents constipation and other digestive problems, as well as making you feel fuller for longer.

This flower provides all the essential amino acids your body needs and contains less natural sugar than bananas and other tropical fruits.

Reduce cholesterol and blood sugar

Banana flowers contain compounds that reduce cholesterol and blood sugar levels - two risk factors for heart disease and type 2 diabetes. Laboratory analysis found that mice fed banana flower powder had lower cholesterol and blood sugar levels and higher levels of probiotics than the control group.

One study noted that quercetin and catechins in banana flowers may reduce blood sugar levels after meals. These antioxidants block an enzyme that absorbs carbs.

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Many Asian dishes use banana flowers. Illustration: Seriouseats

Supports gut health

Rich in fiber, banana flowers promote digestive health. Evidence suggests that fiber can improve your gut microbiome, which can reduce your risk of cancer. Fiber also acts as a prebiotic, increasing the number of good bacteria in your gut.

Prevent prostate enlargement

A common urinary problem in men over 50 is an enlarged prostate. In traditional medicine, banana flowers are used to treat urinary problems. In an animal study, the anti-inflammatory properties of banana flower extract reduced the size of an enlarged prostate. The citric acid and amino acid content of the flower may be responsible for this effect.

Antioxidants in banana flowers have been shown to help reduce inflammation in the prostate and improve urine output when combined with other remedies.

Prevent osteoporosis

Banana flowers are used to relieve joint discomfort, which can be a sign of osteoporosis. According to a laboratory study, the antioxidants quercetin and catechin in banana flowers prevent bone loss.

Banana flowers have been proven safe to eat, with few negative effects. However, if you have any health problems, you should consult your doctor before trying new foods.

Peace