5 Things You Should Know About Bananas

1. The riper it is, the more sugar it has

As a banana ripens, the complex carbohydrates in it become simple sugars. Avoid overripe bananas if you are diabetic or if you simply don’t want your blood sugar to rise sharply.

2. Eating bananas can make you sleep better

They contain an amino acid known as tryptophan which helps your body to regulate sleep patterns and – smile – put you in a better mood.

3. They can help stop diarrhoea

Eaten with plain white rice, cooked green bananas are said to reduce your visits to the loo.

4. Make instant “ice cream”

Chop up overripe bananas and smash them in a mixing bowl. Freeze them and blend the frozen bananas with milk.

5. Never refrigerate them

The skin turns black quickly in cold temperatures and the entire fridge will smell of bananas.