For most people, a banana takes about 30 minutes to fully digest. [2] X Research source Eat unripe, green bananas to help with diarrhea or loose stool.
The fats and protein slow the absorption of sugar into your bloodstream, which leads to more stable energy and blood sugar levels throughout the day. Try eating a crushed banana mixed with honey along with your breakfast to stimulate your digestive system. [4] X Research source
Alternatively, eat a banana right before you go to bed to help move your evening meal through your digestive system in the morning.
Chocolate-Banana Protein Smoothie: blend 1 frozen banana, 0. 5 cups (64 g) cooked red lentils, 0. 5 cups (120 mL) nonfat milk, 2 teaspoons (5. 7 g) unsweetened cocoa powder, and 1 teaspoon (4. 9 mL) pure maple syrup until smooth. [7] X Research source Pineapple Green Smoothie: blend 1 frozen banana, 0. 5 cups (120 mL) unsweetened almond milk, 0. 33 cups (78 mL) nonfat plain Greek yogurt, 1 cup (128 g) baby spinach, 0. 5 cups (64 g) frozen pineapple chunks, 1 tablespoon (14. 3 g) chia seeds, and 1 tablespoon (15 mL) pure maple syrup or honey (optional). [8] X Research source Spinach Avocado Smoothie: blend 1 frozen banana, 1 cup (240 mL) nonfat plain yogurt, 1 cup (128 g) fresh spinach, ¼ avocado, 2 tablespoons (30 mL) water, and 1 tablespoon (15 mL) honey. [9] X Research source
Signs of an unhealthy gut include an upset stomach (bloating, constipation, gas), trouble sleeping, cravings for sugary foods, or frequent mood changes. Regularly eating more than 2-3 bananas a day can cause constipation (if they’re unripe), bloating (if they’re ripe), sleepiness, or a nutrient imbalance. [12] X Research source Bananas are a good source of plant fiber and are low-fat, making them a good food to soothe leaky gut syndrome (so are other fruits and veggies, too). [13] X Trustworthy Source Cleveland Clinic Educational website from one of the world’s leading hospitals Go to source Bananas may have some antibacterial qualities and could also absorb acid in the stomach.
Remove the banana and add cinnamon and honey before drinking. Alternatively, simmer a peeled banana for 5-10 minutes. Besides bloating relief, banana tea also promotes good sleep, heart health, and mood improvements.
You need a variety of nutrients to stay healthy, so only cleanse for one day (or a weekend at most). An extended “mono” diet is bad for your health. [16] X Research source Alternatively, consider an all-banana breakfast followed by your normal diet for the rest of the day. [17] X Research source Bananas are a great detox food. The pectin in them binds toxic compounds in your blood and carries them out through urine and waste. [18] X Research source
If the bananas-only diet is driving you bananas, consider also adding coconut water or cinnamon to spice things up.
The dramatic change in diet can alter how much water you get from the food you eat. Drink more than you think you need to compensate. You’ll know you’re well-hydrated when you don’t feel thirsty often and your urine is clear or pale yellow.
