Are bananas good for weight loss?

Bananas can be part of a weight loss diet. They are a whole food with fiber, which can help you feel full. They are also relatively low in calories for their serving size.

Are bananas good for diabetes?

Bananas contain natural sugars, so portion control is important for individuals with diabetes. Their fiber content can help moderate the impact on blood sugar levels, but it's best to consult a healthcare professional.

Are bananas ultra-processed?

No, bananas are not ultra-processed. They are classified as a NOVA Class 1 food, meaning they are an unprocessed or minimally processed food.

What are the nutritional benefits of bananas?

Bananas are a good source of fiber, providing 2.6g per serving. They are also naturally free from added sugar, saturated fat, and sodium, making them a nutritious whole food choice.

fruit · Serving 1 medium

Banana

Bananas score a 'Good' 62/100 on FoodScore. They are a whole food, naturally high in fiber, and contain no added sugar, saturated fat, or sodium.

Good

FoodScore / 100

Score breakdown

What it has going for it

Bonuses

Fiber (2.6g)+2
Whole food (NOVA 1)+10

What brings the score down

Penalties

Nothing significantly penalised. Well done.

Based on our published methodology (USDA Dietary Guidelines 2020-2025 + NIH DRI).

Nutrition facts

Nutrient	Per 100g	% DV
Calories	89 kcal	—
Total fat	0.3 g	0%
Saturated fat	0 g	0%
Trans fat	0 g	—
Fiber	2.6 g	9%
Protein	1.1 g	2%
Added sugar	0 g	0%
Sodium	1 mg	0%
Potassium	358 mg	8%
Calcium	5 mg	0%
Iron	0.26 mg	1%
Magnesium	27 mg	6%
Phosphorus	22 mg	2%
Zinc	0.15 mg	1%
Vitamin A	0 %	0%
Vitamin C	9.7 %	10%
Vitamin D	0 %	0%
Vitamin E	0 %	0%
Vitamin K	0 %	0%
Vitamin B12	0 %	0%
Folate	5 %	5%
Riboflavin	0 %	0%
Omega-3	0 g	—

Eat this instead

Higher-scoring foods in the same category.

Avocado

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85Very good

Blueberries

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66Good

Mango

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66Good

Orange

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66Good

Watermelon

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64Good

Frequently asked questions

Are bananas good for weight loss?: Bananas can be part of a weight loss diet. They are a whole food with fiber, which can help you feel full. They are also relatively low in calories for their serving size.
Are bananas good for diabetes?: Bananas contain natural sugars, so portion control is important for individuals with diabetes. Their fiber content can help moderate the impact on blood sugar levels, but it's best to consult a healthcare professional.
Are bananas ultra-processed?: No, bananas are not ultra-processed. They are classified as a NOVA Class 1 food, meaning they are an unprocessed or minimally processed food.
What are the nutritional benefits of bananas?: Bananas are a good source of fiber, providing 2.6g per serving. They are also naturally free from added sugar, saturated fat, and sodium, making them a nutritious whole food choice.

Sources: USDA FoodData Central · FDA Nutrition Facts label

Updated 4/19/2026.