We love bananas in the UK. In fact, a 2024 YouGov poll found they were the nation’s third most popular fruit, placing only behind strawberries and red grapes.
As well as the fact that many people enjoy the taste, they are a handy and healthy snack to eat on-the-go.
Bananas are rich in potassium, antioxidants and fibre – all things that are great for our health.
But did you realise that the ripeness of the banana can make a difference in terms of how healthy it is?
One expert revealed that there is an optimal time to eat a banana, to reap as many of the benefits as possible.
Speaking exclusively to Express.co.uk, registered nutritional therapist Jennifer Walpole, explained that green bananas could actually be better for us than yellow ones.
They could help support gut and heart health, she said.
Jennifer explained: “While ripe bananas are known for their sweetness, underripe bananas contain prebiotic fibres, which support the gut microbiome.
“These ‘friendly’ fibres act like food for your gut bacteria, promoting a healthy microbiome and a range of health benefits.
“This is because they are rich in resistant starch, a type of prebiotic fibre that resists digestion in the small intestine.
“It reaches the colon where it fuels the growth of beneficial bacteria like Bifidobacteria and Lactobacillus.
“A thriving gut microbiome contributes to better digestion, nutrient absorption, and a stronger immune system. The prebiotics found in underripe bananas can help maintain this balance, potentially reducing bloating, constipation, and digestive discomfort.
“Research suggests a healthy gut microbiome may play a role in preventing chronic conditions like heart disease and obesity.”
She added: “By incorporating unripe bananas into your diet, you’re potentially investing in your long-term health.”
However, it is worth noting that some people have reported digestive issues from eating green bananas, including symptoms such as bloating, gas and constipation.
They might not also be as tasty, however, Jennifer says there are ways to work around this issue.
“Unripe bananas may not be as sweet as their ripe counterparts, but you can still enjoy them in various ways,” she said.
“For example, try adding them to smoothies or using them in baking for a naturally sweet flavour, or even baking them.”
Another health benefit of bananas whether ripe or unripe, is that they are rich in potassium.
Jennifer added: “Potassium acts as a natural counterbalance to sodium, helping to regulate blood pressure.
“Adequate potassium levels also ensure proper muscle function, reducing the risk of cramps and fatigue, and potentially improving exercise performance.”