Professor Murakami Shoko, a renowned nutritionist from Fukuoka Women’s University in Japan, has been drinking banana vinegar water consistently for almost 50 years. She attributes her enduring health and energetic work ethic, often working till midnight, to this simple beverage.
Banana Vinegar – A Simple Yet Effective Drink
Initially, Professor Shoko prepared banana vinegar only for her three children, who were active members of the swimming club. Noticing the positive impact it had on their recovery and energy levels, she began drinking it herself, a habit she has maintained to this day at the age of 82.
Besides consuming it as a drink, she also utilizes it as a cooking ingredient to enhance the nutritional value of her daily meals.
Why Are Bananas and Vinegar a Perfect Pair for Health?
According to Professor Shoko, bananas are rich in fiber, potassium, vitamin B2, and essential nutrients. Specifically:
- Fiber aids digestion, cleanses the intestines, and enhances the detoxification process.
- Potassium helps regulate blood pressure and reduces the risk of edema caused by water retention.
- Vitamin B2 possesses antioxidant properties, maintaining healthy skin and slowing down the aging process.
When combined with vinegar, a natural source of citric acid, the sugar from the bananas and the acid from the vinegar stimulate metabolism, increase energy production, and promote efficient fat breakdown.
4 Science-Backed Benefits of Banana Vinegar
Professor Murakami Shoko is not alone in her praise for banana vinegar. Dr. Eda Kaoru, a prominent Japanese medical expert, also recognizes its value and considers it one of the “golden secrets” to longevity. Here are the key benefits they have acknowledged:
1. Detoxification, Probiotics, and Longevity
Bananas contain both soluble and insoluble fiber, which nourish beneficial bacteria in the gut and aid in toxin elimination. A healthy gut environment is crucial for maintaining a robust immune system and prolonging lifespan. Thus, banana vinegar is considered a digestive system ally.
2. Mood Stabilization and Improved Sleep
The gut is often referred to as the “second brain” as it produces up to 90% of serotonin, a neurotransmitter that enhances mood and sleep quality. Bananas provide tryptophan, a necessary component for serotonin synthesis. Drinking banana vinegar helps relax the mind, improves sleep patterns, and reduces stress levels.
3. Anti-Aging and Alzheimer’s Prevention
Vinegar is a potent antioxidant, neutralizing free radicals that damage cells. Research indicates that vinegar may stimulate the hippocampus region of the brain, associated with memory, thus supporting the prevention of Alzheimer’s disease and memory-related issues in older adults.
4. Blood Pressure Regulation and Hypertension Reduction
A study in Japan revealed that consuming vinegar for ten weeks led to an average reduction of 6.5% in systolic blood pressure and 8% in diastolic blood pressure. This demonstrates that regular banana vinegar intake may help prevent hypertension and associated cardiovascular issues.
Easy Homemade Banana Vinegar Recipe
You can easily prepare banana vinegar at home with accessible ingredients and a simple process:
Ingredients:
- 1-2 ripe bananas
- 200ml of natural apple cider vinegar or rice vinegar
- 2-3 tablespoons of pure honey (optional)
Instructions:
- Peel and slice the bananas thinly.
- Place the banana slices in a clean glass jar and pour in enough vinegar to cover them completely.
- Seal the jar tightly and store it in a cool, dry place for 3-5 days.
- After that, transfer the vinegar to the refrigerator and consume it within 1-2 weeks.
Usage:
- Mix 1-2 teaspoons of banana vinegar with 200ml of warm water and drink it in the morning or after a meal.
- Alternatively, use it as a salad dressing, dip, or cooking ingredient to enhance your daily meals.
Precautions When Using Banana Vinegar
- Avoid consuming on an empty stomach, especially if you have stomach ulcers.
- Dilute banana vinegar with water; do not drink it undiluted.
- Pregnant women and individuals under medical treatment should consult their doctors before incorporating banana vinegar into their diets.
Banana vinegar is more than just a dietary tip; it’s a secret weapon used by many Japanese to maintain robust health, flexibility, and longevity. Incorporate this simple drink into your daily routine, and you’ll notice a difference in your well-being within a few short weeks.
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