8. Reduces Bloating
As we’ve learned in this article about the hidden health benefits of bananas, this super fruit contains good levels of the mineral potassium, that helps to look after the health of the muscles and blood vessels.
But not only that, potassium can help us beat the dreaded belly bloat, too. This is all down to the fact that potassium counteracts the effects of sodium, by helping the body get rid of excess sodium in the urine.
Sodium is a salt, and can be found in salty foods such as takeaways, ready meals and crisps. When we eat these foods, we often feel bloated as the sodium encourages the body to retain water. Bloating is often as a result of water retention, so eating a potassium-rich banana can help by reducing sodium and in turn, reducing water retention.
Summary:
The potassium in bananas helps to reduce sodium levels by encouraging its excretion in the urine. A diet high in sodium can lead to water retention and bloating – something that potassium-rich bananas can reduce.