Lady finger bananas, also known as baby bananas, are sweeter and smaller than Cavendish bananas found in all local markets. According to nutritionists, eating baby bananas in a well-ripened condition supplies much of the daily needs of almost all nutrients. The most prominent of these include potassium. There are also Vitamins C and B-6 at the margins of 9 and 0.5 milligrams respectively per piece. The dietary fibre content is 3 grams per 100 grams of the produce. David Rukerabigwi, a dietician and nutritionist working with Slim n’ Fit, a weight loss and wellness centre in Kigali, says these baby bananas are incredibly healthy, convenient, delicious, and one of the most inexpensive fresh fruits one can access in markets. For this reason, he says, it makes them an excellent choice for anyone interested in eating healthy. In general, fruits and vegetables are excellent sources of dietary antioxidants, and bananas are no exception. They contain several types of potent antioxidants, including flavonoids and amines. These antioxidants are linked to many health benefits, such as a reduced risk of heart disease and degenerative illnesses. Rukerabigwi mentions that baby bananas contain many essential nutrients and most importantly, they may benefit weight loss, digestion, and heart health. Besides, these types of bananas contain a fair amount of fibre and several antioxidants all of which are beneficial to one’s overall health. Rukerabigwi explains that baby bananas are rich in soluble fibre and that during digestion, soluble fibre dissolves in liquid to form a gel. It’s also what gives bananas their sponge-like texture. “Together, it has been proven that these two types of fibre may moderate blood sugar levels after meals. In addition to this, may help regulate one’s appetite by slowing the emptying of the stomach,” he says. The nutritionist further notes that this means that despite their higher carb content, baby bananas won’t cause major spikes in blood sugar levels in healthy individuals. Emmy Ntamanga, a nutritionist consultant in Kigali, says for diabetic people, it is advisable to consume baby bananas in moderation. The bananas, he says, contain dietary fibre which has been linked to many health benefits, including improved digestion. He notes that baby bananas can as well aid with weight loss as they have relatively few calories. For instance, he mentions that the average banana has just over 100 calories, yet it’s nutritious and filling. “Eating more fibre from vegetables and fruits has repeatedly been linked to lower body weight and weight loss,” Ntamanga says. Rukerabigwi says baby bananas are also packed with potassium, which is a mineral that’s vital for heart health, especially blood pressure management. He adds that bananas are also a great source of potassium. According to studies, a potassium-rich diet can help lower blood pressure. Also, people who eat plenty of potassium have up to a 27 per cent lower risk of heart disease.
