Bananas

Bananas aren’t just a popular snack for humans; they can also offer numerous health benefits to dogs and they are certainly a staple in this house. Versatile, easy to freeze in different forms, and containing resistant starch[1] fibre, they are rich in phytochemicals and a good potential source of prebiotics. Studies that investigated the properties of banana powder have also showed its prebiotic effects and antioxidant content[2].

In moderation, bananas offer a range of health benefits due to their rich nutrient profile. Vitamins C and B6, potassium, manganese, dietary fibre, and natural sugars all contribute to better immune function, muscle and heart health, brain function, digestive health, and energy levels. BUT: don’t forget that they are also high in sugar.

Main nutrients

Fibre

The dietary fibre in bananas aids in digestion by helping to regulate bowel movements and prevent constipation. Studies are investigating how dietary fibre can be used to treat gastrointestinal disorders in dogs, including diarrhoea[3].

Vitamins

Bananas are high in vitamins C and B6, both of which are water-soluble vitamins. Vitamin C plays a role in synthesising collagen, which supports healthy joints and connective tissues, and can aid in reducing inflammation. For example, some vets recommend vitamins C for joint diseases such as hip dysplasia. Vitamin C can also boost the immune system.
Vitamin B6 is involved in amino acid metabolism, which helps dogs to use the proteins in their diet. Vitamin B6 is also crucial for brain development and function. It supports neurotransmitter synthesis, which is important for proper cognitive function and mood regulation in dogs (helping to relax). It can also play a role in eye health and a healthy skin and coat.

Minerals

Bananas provide significant amounts of potassium and manganese. Potassium is an electrolyte that helps regulate fluid balance in the body. This can aid in hydration, especially during physical activity. Potassium is essential for maintaining normal muscle function and nerve transmission and contributes to the proper functioning of the heart muscle, thereby supporting cardiovascular health. Although a trace element, manganese is vital for dogs, for skeletal growth and to maintain healthy bones and connective tissues. Manganese is also used to produce energy, make fatty acids and to aid digestion and the absorption of proteins and carbohydrates.

Antioxidants

Bananas contain various antioxidants that help combat oxidative stress and damage caused by free radicals.

Benefits – Key takeaways

  • Improved Digestive Health
  • Enhanced Immune System
  • Healthy joints and tissues
  • Cognitive Function and Mood Regulation
  • Cardiovascular Health
  • Skeletal Health and Energy Production
  • Hydration and Electrolyte Balance
  • Protection Against Oxidative Stress

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Freezing tips

  •  Keep slices of banana ready to hand in the freezer as a quick treat
  • Slice the bananas before they get too ripe and open freeze the slices before storing in a container.
  • These can be given to your dog as treat (not too many in one day!) or used in smoothies or baking.

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References:

[1] Jaiturong P, Laosirisathian N, Sirithunyalug B, Eitssayeam S, Sirilun S, Chaiyana W, Sirithunyalug J. Physicochemical and prebiotic properties of resistant starch from Musa sapientum Linn., ABB group, cv. Kluai Namwa Luang. Heliyon. 2020 Dec 21;6(12):e05789. doi: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2020.e05789. PMID: 33376829; PMCID: PMC7758519.
[2] Phoomjai Sornsenee, Siriphorn Chimplee, Phanvasri Saengsuwan, Chonticha Romyasamit, Characterization of probiotic properties and development of banana powder enriched with freeze-dried Lacticaseibacillus paracasei probiotics, Heliyon, Volume 8, Issue 10, 2022, e11063, ISSN 2405-8440, https://doi.org/10.1016/j.heliyon.2022.e11063.
[3] Marge Chandler: dietary fibre in dogs and cats: its therapeutic importance. https://www.vettimes.co.uk

Want to know more? The studies may be useful

  • Wall, M.M.. (2006). Ascorbic acid, vitamin A, and mineral composition of banana (Musa sp.) and papaya (Carica papaya) cultivars grown in Hawaii. Journal of Food Composition and Analysis. 19. 434-445. 10.1016/j.jfca.2006.01.002.
  • Singh B, Singh JP, Kaur A, Singh N. Bioactive compounds in banana and their associated health benefits – A review. Food Chem. 2016 Sep 1;206:1-11. doi: 10.1016/j.foodchem.2016.03.033. Epub 2016 Mar 11. PMID: 27041291.
  • Kim DK, Ediriweera MK, Davaatseren M, Hyun HB, Cho SK. Antioxidant activity of banana flesh and antiproliferative effect on breast and pancreatic cancer cells. Food Sci Nutr. 2022 Jan 26;10(3):740-750. doi: 10.1002/fsn3.2702. PMID: 35311172; PMCID: PMC8907754.

 

Nutritional value, banana, raw, 100 g

Nutrient table for bananas

For full nutrient content see Food Data Central

 

Important Considerations:

  • Always consult your veterinarian before making any significant dietary changes, particularly where there are pre-existing health conditions or dietary restrictions.
  • As some commercial foods contain dietary fibre as an ingredient, check the label to see whether it’s in your dog’s food before giving more. Excessive intake of any foods can have adverse effects.
  • Ensure (where possible) that you use high-quality, organic products specifically formulated for pets (or better still, human grade ingredients) to avoid any potential adverse effects.
  • Introduce new foods gradually to avoid adverse effects such as gastrointestinal upset or diarrhoea.
  • I provide nutritional information purely as a helpful guide. Nutritional information on ingredients is obtained from the US Department of Agriculture’s FoodData Central site (https://fdc.nal.usda.gov/index.html) and any nutritional information provided in recipes is based on an online calculator: calories and other information will vary based on brands, ingredients and other factors.
  • Check nutrient levels and recommendations for your dog’s weight, age and activity. For example this nutritional guideline produced by FEDIAF.