The reasons we love green banana powder are endless. Adding it to our everyday diet means our guts are nourished with a functional ingredient that supports our microbiome. For our busy lives and busier bodies, incorporating gut-loving foods is essential to supporting our lifestyle--and more than that, our overall health.

So if you’ve been searching for a healthy (and functional) flour alternative, your wait is over. Green banana powder has traditionally been used for its smooth texture, subtle flavor, and amazing health benefits. Now, it’s fast becoming one of most popular ingredients of the year.

What is green banana powder?

Milled from dried green banana pulp, the powder can add texture to any sweet or savory dish. But what really sets it apart, and why we choose to substitute it for traditional flours whenever possible: its high content of resistant starch, a type of functional fiber. As the name implies, this type of starch ‘resists’ being broken down into sugar. Instead, it ferments into a nourishing meal for our ‘good' bacteria. 

In fact, green bananas contain the world’s richest source of resistant starch, making it an optimum food for your digestive tract. Creating a balanced community of bacteria translates into several health benefits for you.

What are green banana powder’s health benefits?

Supports Digestion

Do you suffer from low energy, dull skin and mood swings? Your gut may need a reboot. Green banana powder supports healthy digestion by feeding the good bacteria in the gut with the fuel that they need to thrive. As a result, food is digested more efficiently, and nutrient absorption is enhanced. The fiber content also gets things moving by adding bulk and promoting intestinal contractions. The result? Less constipation and reduced growth of harmful bacteria. The powder is also gluten free – a great choice for those with celiac disease or a gluten intolerance.

Boosts Mood

The bacteria in our gut can support our mood in various ways. Firstly,  through the production of 'feel good’ neurotransmitters such as serotonin and dopamine. Substances produced by bacteria can also lower inflammation in the body, a state that is associated with certain mental health disorders, such as depression. Green banana powder supports these mood boosting actions by supplying the bacteria with a steady fuel source. The powder is also rich in 5 Hydroxytrytophan (5-HTP), a precursor for serotonin. Vitamin B6 and magnesium also support neurotransmitter production.

Balances Blood Sugar Levels

As bananas ripen, their natural sugar content increases. The benefit of green bananas is that they are still in an unripe form. Because they are low in sugar and high in fiber they are digested slowly, providing a steady supply of energy.

Blood sugar imbalances can occur when we eat too many processed carbohydrate-rich foods.  These foods break down quickly, spiking our blood sugar levels. In response, our bodies release insulin to counteract the rise. When too much insulin is released over a short time, our blood sugar levels slump too low. This ‘see-saw’ effect causes sugar cravings, irritability, and low energy. Eating a diet rich in functional fiber, such as green banana powder, will help to keep your blood sugar levels stable.  Eating lots of fiber also keeps you feeling fuller for longer – a helpful tool for weight loss.

It’s Packed With Vitamins & Minerals

It’s not just green banana powder’s high  resistant starch content that’s  beneficial to your body and overall health. One cup contains roughly 1,500 milligrams of potassium (that’s equivalent to 3 bananas!). The body needs potassium for normal cell function, to help build proteins, and to break down carbs. Most adults in the United States are not getting enough potassium in their diets. Increasing your intake will help to keep your blood pressure within a normal range and reduce the risk of heart disease.  The powder is also rich in magnesium, vitamin B6 and manganese, which keeps your body running smoothly.

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Adding green banana powder to your daily routine is easier than you probably think. Nourish your microbiome and get that glow-from-within look and feel. Your gut microbiome will thank you.

Shop our gut-friendly prebiotic friendly bites here!