Overripe bananas contain TNF (Tumor Necrosis Factor), a very active substance that attacks and kills cancerous cells. TNF is routinely used in oncology to treat cancer patients, and ripe bananas contain a very strong type of natural TNF.
After the high content of anticancer factors in overripe bananas had been discovered, a group of researchers from Tokyo, led by Professor Senji, started studying similar effects of several foods on laboratory animals,
They found that bananas had the most powerful effect on the immune system; animals fed with ripe bananas showed a remarkable improvement in their immune response and stress resistance, and had a higher number of white blood cells, which are involved in immune processes. Other foods the researchers studied for their effects were apples, grapes, melons, pears, and Japanese dates.
Ripe bananas contain a high amount of antioxidants
Ripe bananas are high in antioxidants, substances that can reverse the harmful effects of free radicals ordinarily resulting from metabolism that affect cell integrity and produce oxidative stress. Free radicals are also proven to play a role in the development of cancer.
Bananas also have other important health benefits, including the following:
They increase immunity.
Bananas are an energizing food, highly recommended during periods of physical and intellectual strain. Due to their high carbohydrate content, bananas also support the brain in the memorizing processes.
Thanks to their antioxidant content, bananas help maintaining a youthful look and preserve the elasticity of the skin.
Bananas are a good natural diuretic, and they lower high blood pressure.
Bananas prevent osteoporosis, being especially recommended in women’s nutrition.
Bananas regulate intestinal transit and relieve stomach aches.