The usual mindset, is that bananas shouldn’t be eaten. However, a dietitian provides the real facts on banana nutrition. This gives a clear view on the benefits of this unique and healthy fruit.
As with most fruits, bananas are packed with nutrients that our body thrives on, however it is commonly noticed people complaining that bananas are high in sugar and calories.
A medium banana contains 15 grams of sugar and 110 calories. It is time to explain that the benefits out way the drawbacks of consuming such a sweet treat.
Potassium, a mineral that lessens the effects of sodium in your body. A medium size banana provides 10 % of the daily required potassium intake. This mineral help the sodium in your body to be expelled through urine. Potassium also helps to ease the tension in your blood vessels, lowering blood pressure.
Bananas also help to keep your kidneys healthy as potassium is vital for kidney function. However, this applies for healthy kidney, if an individual is diagnosed with a type of kidney disease, one should speak with their physician about the potassium intake.
An intake of dietary fibre is associated with reducing cholesterol levels, however most individuals do not meet the RDA ( 25g-30g per day). One medium size banana provides about three grams of fibre. Lower the cholesterol levels, the lower the risk of heart disease.
Studies have supported bananas may not cause huge spikes in our blood sugar as it is known to digest more slowly in our bodies. This sweet fruit is also good for our digestive tract, as it helps to reduce the risk of constipation and diarrhoea.
Fruits, in general are rich with antioxidants, bananas are no exception With a healthy dose of vitamin c with 12% of the RDA.
Free radicals that may cause cell damage are controlled by food rich in vitamin c. Research supports the maintenance of immune health by vitamin c.
Magnesium, a mineral that helps regulate our blood pressure, and bananas provide 8% of the required daily dose. Research has also linked magnesium with bone density and reducing the risk of osteoporosis. As research suggests magnesium helps in insulin metabolism and glucose control, thereby reducing the risk of type 2 diabetes.
Apart from giving a great source of energy, bananas are a good snack consumed at any time of the day. It goes well with cold cereal, pancakes or muffins and honey, or just simply on their own. Easily to source and delicious to eat.
