Are Bananas Good for Weight Loss?

Are Bananas Good for Weight Loss? Bananas are high in protein and low in fat and calories, making them an excellent choice for you when watching your weight. They can be eaten alone or with a meal, so there are plenty of choices for you making it a fun treat.

Bananas contain large amounts of potassium, magnesium, and vitamin B-6. The average ripe banana contains only 105 calories. Based on a 2,000-calorie-per-day diet, eating several bananas a day can provide numerous nutrients and account for only a fraction of your daily caloric intake.

The fruit does not have much fat, but is high in protein and fiber, meaning that it fills you up and can help stave off hunger. A large banana contains 4 grams of dietary fat per serving, which can help you reach the daily allowance of 25 grams of dietary fiber.

For people who are watching their sugar intake or have diabetes, the banana has a low glycemic index. Foods that have a low glycemic index release carbohydrates slowly in the body, which prevents spikes in blood sugar levels. The Glycemic Index Foundations website lists ripe yellow bananas with a glycemic index of 51. Anything above 70 on the glycemic index scale is considered high, where anything under 55 is considered low.

So, bananas are good for weight loss and can help prevent hunger in between meals without spiking your sugar levels.