I grew up eating plantain (Musa paradisiaca) which is a tall plant that can grow from 10 to 33 feet high not to be confused with the plantago (plantain), edible lawn weed. What a lot of people may not realize is that plantain is actually a fruit. I mainly ate ripe plantain, though now I actually like green plantain better. I then didn’t think about the health benefits of the plantain. I just liked how it tasted either boiled, roasted or fried. Fried plantain is usually eaten as a side dish, boiled plantain is usually part of lunch or dinner and roasted plantain is usually eaten as a snack, but the plantain can be eaten any of the 3 ways for breakfast, lunch, dinner or a snack. Plantain must be cooked to be eaten.
Ripe Plantain - Photography Supplied by E. Etta
In Africa, plantains and bananas provide more than 25% of food energy requirements for over 70 million people. Only 15% of global plantain production is used in trade; the rest is consumed domestically in the countries where they are grown. Plantains are the 10th most important staple food feeding the world today.
Where does Plantain Grow
Plantain grows in the areas around the equator
Health Benefits
Green and Ripe Plantain - Photography Supplied by E. Etta
Energy Source: High carbohydrates provide sustained energy, ideal for active individuals or staple diets.
Digestive Health: Fiber promotes regular bowel movements and supports gut microbiota.
Heart Health: Potassium regulates blood pressure, while fiber reduces cholesterol levels.
Vision and Immunity: Vitamin A supports eye health, while vitamin C boosts immunity.
Blood Sugar Regulation: Fiber slows sugar absorption, though ripe plantains have a higher glycemic index.
Resources
Plantain Bananas: History, Identifying Characteristics, Taste & Cultivation
Plantains - Photography Supplied by E. Etta