Plantains often get confused with bananas. They have a similar look and even boast a similar nutritional profile, but they differ in taste and use. Plantains are usually cooked before eating. They have a starchier taste and contain less sugar than bananas. They also grow year-round in tropical climates making them a reliable food source for many developing countries. Plantains aren't very popular in the United States, but you can probably find them in a large grocery store near you. Thanks to the vitamins and minerals they contain, plantain health benefits include providing the body with potassium and regulating the digestive system.
Plantain Health Benefits
1. Provide the Body with Potassium
Plantain health benefits include a natural boost of potassium. One cup of cooked, mashed plantains contains a whopping 913 milligrams of potassium, making them one of the most potassium-rich foods across the globe. The body uses potassium to regulate the amount of sodium in the body and naturally combat high blood pressure. (1)2. Help Regulate the Digestive System
Plantain health benefits include the ability to help regulate the digestive system. There are roughly 25-30 grams of fiber in one cup of plantains. As a high-fiber food, plantain health benefits include the ability to relieve digestive issues, including constipation, hemorrhoids and diverticulitis. (2)3. Reduce Free Radicals in the Body
Thanks to the Vitamin C they contain, plantain health benefits include the ability to fight free radicals in the body that cause damage. Vitamin C works to boost the immune system, protect the skin from damage, reduce premature aging and help repair damaged tissues. (3)![plantain health benefits](https://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/2718/3098/files/plantain-health-benefits.jpg)