Is it Good to Eat Banana in Jaundice?

Many people are sceptical about banana intake in Jaundice and need an expert opinion on it! So, let’s find out. Jaundice results due to increased levels of bilirubin in the blood. Its common symptoms are pale yellow eyes, skin, and urine. A healthy and balanced diet plays a vital role in managing Jaundice effectively. 

Jaundice occurs when the Liver gets weak and is unable to process bilirubin, a pigment created from the red blood cells breakdown. Your physician can spot common Jaundice symptoms like fever, pale urine and yellow eyes to undergo further blood investigations and get confirmation if it’s gallstones, hepatitis or liver disease. 

If Jaundice is confirmed, the first thing a health expert will do is prepare a diet plan with a list of foods to eat and avoid until you are free from the disease. Whether bananas are an advisable choice or not, read below to find out. 

Role of Healthy Diet in Recovery from Jaundice

A lot of emphasis is placed on meal plans for patients to recover better from jaundice. The human liver produces bile, which breaks down fats in the intestine, leading to the digestion of foods you eat. 

The liver is also a crucial organ for processing other functions, such as removing body toxins, digesting nutrients, and essential medications. During Jaundice, the liver is in a weak position, thus hampering the overall digestive mechanism of the body. 

Any foods or liquids with excess salt, sugar, oil, or spice are difficult to digest as they pressurize the weak liver to process the saturated fats in them. Thus, it is advisable to only eat recommended fresh fruits, vegetables, and healthy recipes during recovery from Jaundice. 

Can I Eat Banana in Jaundice?

Below are the reasons why Bananas are recommended for Jaundice prevention or recovery:

–          Rich in Nutrients

Bananas are a healthy fruit and a rich source of Potassium, Vitamin B6, and Vitamin C. Intake of bananas also helps restore the essential body nutrients lost due to liver dysfunction during Jaundice. It garners important nutritional support for your body, which supports faster recovery. 

–          Better to Digest

Bananas are soft and mushy, making them easily digestible and preventing them from disrupting the gastrointestinal tract. Many patients suffering from diseases related to the digestive system are recommended bananas as they impart an instant source of energy and are not heavy to digest. During Jaundice, the body is trying to heal the damaged liver and digestive system, so it is ideal to pick fruits that support this process. 

–          Keeps Hydrated

Dehydration is a common problem in people who have Jaundice due to the noticeable surge in body fluids. Bananas have a high water content and impart instant hydration upon intake. It is advisable to include bananas along with other hydrating fruits and juices to manage the loss of water in the body. 

–          Revives Energy Levels

Jaundice makes people feel drained and lethargic due to weak immunity and a disrupted digestive system. It results in severe weakness, but bananas can surely provide an instant boost of energy. Bananas are known as power fruits for their high carbohydrate levels, which provide a quick energy punch upon intake. 

–          Low Fat Levels

During Jaundice, the body’s metabolism rate slows down, and it becomes difficult for the liver to digest high-fat foods. Bananas are almost fat-free and prove suitable for weak liver conditions. Their very low-fat composition makes them an ideal snacking option when you feel hungry between meals during the treatment. 

–          Supports Liver Function

Bananas promote overall liver health, though they can’t be considered a primary source of treatment for liver conditions such as Jaundice. However, bananas are loaded with plenty of antioxidants, which prove helpful in reducing liver inflammation and minimizing oxidative stress. 

–          Gentle on Stomach

Bananas’ mild flavour and nature make them very easy on the stomach and help soothe common Jaundice symptoms like nausea or stomach ache. People of all age groups can easily eat and digest bananas, making them an ideal option during Jaundice treatment. 

Overall, there are enough reasons to consider bananas a ‘safe’ and ‘healthy’ option during Jaundice. Experts recommend moderate consumption due to their high fibre content, which, in excess, can pressurize the digestive system. 

Excessive banana intake also results in the production of bile juices, which can worsen Jaundice symptoms even more. Above all, a couple of bananas won’t do any harm, but it is best to consult your healthcare professional about what they suggest based on the liver function test reports and severity of symptoms. 

Quick Tips on What to Include in Your Jaundice Diet

–          Drink plenty of fluids and around 2 litres of water.

–          Herbal tea and coffee in moderation

–          Lots of whole grains

–          Variety of vegetables and fruits

–          Lean proteins such as poultry products, legumes, tofu and fish

–          Milk Thistle

–          Pineapple, honey and mango

–          Healthy Fats

A list of foods to avoid when having Jaundice are excessive alcohol intake, saturated and trans fats, refined sugar, uncooked fish, and foods containing preservatives. 

Winding Up

In short, bananas are safe food for Jaundice unless your healthcare expert creates a customized diet plan according to individual requirements or other underlying health conditions. Though there’s no scientific proof that banana intake cures Jaundice, it can definitely help boost energy levels, alleviate symptoms, and promote overall recovery from the disease. 

Jaundice patients mainly need to focus on easy-to-digest foods with a high number of nutrients and low-fat amounts. Spicy and oily foods are a strict no for people with Jaundice. Above all, the certified dietician is the main authority in designing the right diet chart to increase overall recovery from jaundice. 

Stay tuned for more helpful articles on health and wellness. We’re hearing your concerns or queries, so drop a message in the comments below. 

Stay Healthy and Blessed!