Plantains are known as the starchy and less sweet cousins of bananas. However, when cooked, plantains are even more delicious. If you are a fan of plantains, then you may be tempted to share this yummy snack with your pet. However, is that safe? Can dogs eat plantains?
Can dogs eat plantains?
The short answer is — yes! Plantains are perfectly safe for dogs, and can even benefit their health. However, just like with any other food — moderation is key. So make sure to give your dog only small quantities of plantains so that their stomach doesn’t get upset. Additionally, plantains are best when cooked before eating. So make sure to not give your canine raw plantains. They could be harder to digest and even cause constipation.
You can cook the plantains in oils such as coconut oil. However, make sure to keep the oil at a minimum. Your dog won’t benefit from the extra calories, and eating food rich in fat can cause pancreatitis in dogs. Especially over a longer period of time.
In smaller amounts, coconut oil is great for dogs and can even benefit their skin and coat. As well as their immune system and cardiovascular health.
Can I give my fog plantain chips?
Giving your dog plantain chips every once in a while will be absolutely safe and fine. However, Your shouldn’t do it too often. Plantain chips contain a lot of sodium which isn’t too healthy for canines. So make sure to limit the amounts.
Are plantains healthy for dogs?
Yes, they absolutely are!
Plantains are high in fiber and contain numerous vitamins and minerals. Such as Vitamin A, C and potassium and magnesium. They will boost your dog’s health and immune system.
The nutritional breakdown of plantains
Plantains: 32% carbohydrates with 2% dietary fiber and 15% sugars, 1% protein, 0.4% fat, and 65% water, approximately 122 calories in a 100-gram serving. Plantain are an excellent source (20% or higher of the Daily Value, DV) of vitamin B6 (23% DV) and vitamin C (22% DV), and a good source (10–19% DV) of magnesium and potassium.
Are plantains anti-inflammatory?
They in fact are! Besides being antibacterial, plantains are also anti-inflammatory. They can help with several issues connected to inflammation. They can also improve the health of your dog’s cardiovascular system, immune system, digestive system but also their skin and coat.
Inflammation is one of the biggest factors that can affect your dog’s health in a negative way. Especially excessive inflammation over a longer period of time. That’s why it’s so important to keep your dog away from pro-inflammatory food such as junk food or candies, and instead give them healthy options such as fruits and vegetables.
Plantains vs Bananas: What’s The Difference?
You might be confused about the differences between bananas and plantains, as they seem so similar on the first look. Both of them come from the same family of plants and are rich in nutrients such as Vitamin A, Vitamin C, potassium and magnesium.
They are often used to make chips or fries and are also incredibly delicious treats if baked or incorporated in treats such as muffins or breads.
Are plantains healthier than bananas?
While you can’t go wrong with either one of them, which one is healthier depends on what you are looking for in your dog’s diet.
If you are looking for some extra fibers and less calories, bananas are the way to go. However, if you are not concerned about either one of them, choose whichever your dog likes better.
Nutritionally speaking, they are quite similar and both will add some important nutrients to your dog’s diet.
If this article opened up your appetite for other food related content, here’s more:
- What Vegetables Can Dogs Eat?
- What fruits can dogs eat and which are toxic?
- Which Food Is Good Or Bad For Dogs?
- Five human foods you can give your dog without any guilt!
- Five human foods that could kill your beloved dog!
- Can Dogs Eat Spicy Food?