A large-scale study spanning 20 years, conducted by experts from Newcastle University and the University of Leeds (UK), has announced a groundbreaking discovery: Resistant Starch found in unripe (green) bananas, can effectively prevent various types of cancers.
1. A Shield for the digestive system
The research, published in the journal Cancer Prevention Research, reveals that consuming resistant starch helps reduce the risk of upper gastrointestinal (GI) cancers by over 60%. This group of diseases is notoriously difficult to detect and diagnose early, including:
- Esophageal cancer
- Stomach cancer
- Biliary tract cancer
- Pancreatic and duodenal cancer
2. Why do "Green Bananas" Have This Power?
The secret lies in Resistant Starch. Unlike common carbohydrates, resistant starch is not broken down in the small intestine. Instead, it:
- Ferments in the large intestine: It becomes a precious "food" source to nourish beneficial gut bacteria (probiotics).
- Protects DNA: This process helps reduce the amount of secondary bile acids in the gut, a major factor that contributes to DNA damage and the formation of cancer cells.
3. Tips for Effective Use
To achieve the health benefits observed in the research, experts provide the following advice:
- Dosage: Equivalent to eating one banana per day while it is still slightly green (before it becomes too ripe and soft).
- Alternative Sources: In addition to green bananas, you can supplement resistant starch from peas, oats, and other legumes.
Conclusion: Although scientists suggest that more in-depth research is needed, adding a green banana to your daily menu is a simple, affordable habit that offers immense disease-prevention benefits.
Source: Nhan Dan Online Newspaper. YouTube Channel:
