The benefits of Green Banana Flour for Gut Health

'A well-functioning gut is better equipped to fight off pathogens, reduce infection risk, and manage allergic responses.'

 Its become well recognised that maintaining optimal gut health is vital to our overall well-being. The gut, often referred to as the body’s second brain, is involved in many processes, from digestion to immune function and even mental health. For those who have just undergone our 10 Day Cleanse, we always encourage that post cleanse and ongoing, our community looks at restoring and nurturing their gut health as a lifelong exercise. And this is why we absolutely love our Biotic Powder, which contains 100% QLD Green Banana Flour. This nutrient-dense, gluten-free flour offers numerous benefits for our gut health, making it an excellent addition to the post-cleanse protocol. Here’s how green banana flour can support your digestive system and overall health.

Firstly, what Is Green Banana Flour?

Green banana flour, contained in Zeally Herbs Biotic Powder, is made from biodynamically grown unripe QLD bananas that are dried and then ground into a fine powder. It’s packed with vitamins, minerals, and dietary fibre, in particular resistant starch, a type of carbohydrate that acts as a prebiotic, feeding the beneficial bacteria in the gut. The flour has a mild, slightly earthy taste, making it a versatile ingredient for smoothies, baked goods, and sauces.

Heres just a handful of key reasons as to why Green Banana Flour, contained in our Biotic Powder, is incredible for our Gut Health:

1. High in Resistant Starch – A Prebiotic Powerhouse
   One of the most significant benefits of green banana flour is its high content of resistant starch. Resistant starch is not digested in the stomach or small intestine, so it passes through to the colon where it acts as a food source for beneficial gut bacteria. These bacteria ferment the starch into short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs) like butyrate, which promote colon health and reduce inflammation in the gut.
   
   After a cleanse, your gut microbiome may need extra support to continue to repopulate with healthy bacteria, and resistant starch provides exactly that. By consuming green banana flour, you create an ideal environment for probiotics to thrive, fostering a balanced and diverse microbiome.

2. Improves Digestive Function
   
   Many people experience digestive issues like bloating, irregular bowel movements, or sluggish digestion. The fibre in green banana flour helps to improve bowel regularity by adding bulk to stools and supporting overall intestinal health.
   
   In addition to resistant starch, green banana flour contains soluble and insoluble fibres that help to keep your digestive system running smoothly. These fibres ensure efficient waste elimination and reduce the risk of constipation, which can sometimes occur when we are not being mindful around what is on our plate day to day! 

3. Supports Gut Healing and Reduces Inflammation
   
   Chronic inflammation in the gut is linked to various health issues, including irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) and leaky gut. We are more ‘busy’ today than ever. Add to that our exposure to toxins and processed foods at an all-time high along with diets that lack the fruits and vegetables, minerals and vitamins we need. As a result our gut lining might often need additional support to heal and restore its integrity. Resistant starch has anti-inflammatory properties that help repair the intestinal lining and protect against damage caused by stress, poor diet, or environmental toxins.
   
   The short-chain fatty acids produced by the fermentation of resistant starch play a key role in maintaining the gut barrier and preventing inflammatory responses. This not only supports gut healing but also has a systemic impact on reducing inflammation throughout the body.

4. Stabilises Blood Sugar and Reduces Cravings
   
   Due to todays western diet, many people experience unstable blood sugar levels, which can lead to sugar cravings and energy crashes. Green banana flour’s resistant starch slows down the digestion and absorption of glucose, helping stabilise blood sugar levels. This is particularly helpful for people trying to avoid binge eating or those looking to maintain a healthier, balanced diet long-term. By promoting stable blood sugar levels, green banana flour helps curb cravings for unhealthy, processed foods that could damage your gut.

5. Boosts Immunity
   
   A healthy gut is directly connected to a robust immune system. Up to 70% of the immune system resides in the gut, meaning the foods we eat have a profound impact on immune function. After a cleanse, the immune system may need a boost, and by repopulating your gut with beneficial bacteria through the consumption of resistant starch, you support your immune defence.
   
   The prebiotic effect of green banana flour encourages the growth of beneficial bacteria like Bifidobacteria and Lactobacilli, which strengthen the gut lining and improve immune response. A well-functioning gut is better equipped to fight off pathogens, reduce infection risk, and manage allergic responses.

6. Gluten-Free and Hypoallergenic
   
   For individuals who are sensitive to gluten or other common allergens, green banana flour is a safe alternative. Gluten, found in many grain-based flours, can damage the gut lining and trigger inflammation in people with gluten sensitivities or celiac disease. Green banana flour offers a nutrient-rich, gluten-free option that promotes gut healing rather than exacerbating gut issues.

How to Use Green Banana Flour Post Cleanse

Incorporating our Biotic Powder into your diet post-cleanse is simple and versatile. You can:

• Add it to smoothies: Blend a tablespoon into your smoothie to boost your intake of resistant starch.
• Use it in baking: Substitute a portion of regular flour in baked goods with green banana flour for a gut-healthy twist.
• Make pancakes or flatbreads: Its neutral flavour works well for making gluten-free, fibre-rich pancakes or wraps.
• Stir it into sauces or soups: Green banana flour can be used as a thickening agent in soups and sauces, adding a subtle nutritional boost.

Green banana flour offers a powerful combination of prebiotics, fibre, and essential nutrients that can support and restore gut health, particularly after a cleanse. Its high resistant starch content fosters a healthy microbiome, improves digestion, reduces inflammation, and promotes overall well-being. If you’re looking for a natural way to replenish your gut post cleanse, adding our Biotic Powder to your diet is a smart and effective choice.