Bananas are one of the most popular and well-known fruits in the world, but people often overlook the importance of their banana stems. The stem, which is full of fiber, vitamins, and minerals, can be added to a variety of dishes or juiced for a nutritious beverage.

Eating banana stems has been an age-old practice in India. Over the years, scientists have discovered numerous health benefits of consuming banana stems. Research shows that this ‘Underutilized part of the plant’ is rich in carbohydrates, potassium and Vitamin B6.

Banana stem juice is a good substitute for your regular morning drinks when you want to get most of the health benefits but still want something fresh and tasty.

If you are looking for a healthy start to the day and to keep your heart healthy, then you should be incorporating banana stem juice into your diet. Check out few benefits of banana stem juice that can help you tackle your health issues:

1) HELPS IN WEIGHT LOSS

Banana stem juice is a rich source of dietary fiber, which is important for weight loss. Fiber helps you feel full for longer periods of time, which can help reduce your overall calorie intake. It is an excellent choice for those following a calorie-restricted diet.

The stem of banana is also rich in antioxidants, which can help protect the body against free radicals and reduce inflammation. Inflammation has been linked to obesity and other weight-related issues.

It is an excellent addition to any weight loss program and can be easily incorporated into your diet by adding it to smoothies or enjoying it as a refreshing drink on its own.

2) DIGESTION AND CONSTIPATION

Banana stem juice helps reduce stomach acid and balances the pH levels of the intestines, making it an excellent natural laxative. The fiber in the stem of banana can help maintain regular bowel movements by adding bulk to your stools, making them easier to pass through the intestines.

Inflammation in the digestive system has been linked to constipation, so consuming foods that are high in antioxidants may help to relieve this condition.

Constipation can often be caused by dehydration, so it is important to stay hydrated to help prevent this condition. Banana stem juice is a good source of hydration and can help to keep the body hydrated and healthy.

3) DIABETES

Banana stem juice is low in sugar, making it a good choice for those with diabetes who need to monitor their sugar intake. It is also a good source of complex carbohydrates, which are absorbed more slowly into the bloodstream and can help to regulate blood sugar levels.

The fiber in banana stem juice can help to slow down the absorption of sugar in the bloodstream, helping to keep blood sugar levels stable.

4) DETOXIFICATION

The banana stem juice contains a type of soluble fiber called pectin, that supports the body’s natural detoxification processes. It also helps in increasing the production of insulin and hemoglobin in the body, retaining the muscle tone and detoxifying the body.

Banana stem benefits the kidneys by helping in the waste filtration process, as they help in the removal of toxins from the bloodstream. Banana stem juice has been shown to improve kidney function, potentially helping to support the body’s natural detoxification processes.

5) KIDNEY STONES

Banana stem juice for kidney stones has been a traditional remedy in some parts of the world. It is believed to have diuretic properties, which means it can help increase the production of urine. This can help flush out small kidney stones from the urinary tract. Banana stem for kidney stones helps in breaking the calcium oxalate to provide relief.

It is important to note that banana stem juice should not be used as a substitute for medical treatment for kidney stones. If you are experiencing symptoms of kidney stones, such as severe abdominal pain or blood in your urine, you should seek medical attention as soon as possible.

6) ANEMIA

Anemia is a condition in which the body lacks sufficient red blood cells or hemoglobin, a protein that carries oxygen from the lungs to the body’s cells. The stem of banana has potential health benefits for people with anemia due to its high iron content.

Banana stem benefits overall health and wellbeing as it serves as a good source of iron, as well as other nutrients such as vitamin C, potassium, and magnesium.

7) UTIS

Urinary tract infections (UTIs) are infections that can occur anywhere in the urinary system, including the kidneys, ureters, bladder, and urethra. Banana stem juice has diuretic properties, which means it may help increase the production of urine. This could potentially help flush out bacteria from the urinary tract, which might help prevent UTIs.

8) BLOOD PRESSURE

Banana stem juice is a natural blood pressure management beverage. It contains potassium and magnesium which are important minerals in controlling blood pressure.

9) REDUCES BAD CHOLESTEROL

Banana stem juice may lower cholesterol levels by increasing the production of bile acids, which are chemicals produced by the liver that help break down and digest fats. Bile acids are made from cholesterol, and increasing their production may help lower cholesterol levels in the body.

WHO CAN DRINK BANANA STEM JUICE?

This delicious and healthy drink is perfect for anyone looking to improve their overall health. It is especially beneficial for those who suffer from kidney stones, gallbladder stones, diabetes, UTI, acidity and constipation. This magical drink can also help with weight loss and detoxification, as well as regulating blood pressure.

Fun Fact – The banana stem juice is also known as Valathandu juice (valaithandu or vazhaithandu), plantain stem juice or banana stalk juice

Nutrition Facts Per Serving
Carbs	2g (66%)
Dietary Fiber	1.9g
Fat	0.2g (15%)
Protein	0.6g (20%)
Calcium	4%

**Note: Percentages are based on a diet of 2000 calories a day

Ingredients

1. 1 cup soaked Banana stem
2. 1 cup water
3. Lemon juice
4. Pinch of salt

Prep Time: 10 minutes

Cook Time: 0

Course: Entree

Cuisine: Indian

Serving size: 1

Making banana stem juice is a great way to utilize the often discarded stems from ripe bananas. Follow this simple recipe to make banana stem juice:

1. Remove the outer layers and cut into small pieces.
2. Soak in buttermilk
3. Add into a blender with a cup of water & a pinch of salt
4. Serve fresh and consume immediately

Step 1: Start by removing the outermost layers of the banana stem. Cut the stem into smaller pieces for easier blending.

Pro tip: Do not remove the inner fibers (The inner fibers contain the most nutrition)

Step 2: Soak the banana stem in buttermilk. This is done to avoid decolorization.

Vegan tip: To avoid decolorization, soak the stems in water with a few drops of lemon juice, instead of buttermilk

Step 3: Add the soaked stems in a blender/juicer, along with a cup of water

Step 4: Strain the juice. Add a pinch of salt and a few drops of lemon juice to enhance the taste.