Bananas; Health Benefits of eating a Banana

Bananas have been recorded as one of the most consumed fruits in the world. But it’s still quite surprising that people still ask the question; are bananas good for me? This medium sized yellow fruit is packed with nutrients that will wow you after reading up the article. This easy to consume fruit is believed to be the ‘forbidden fruit’ that Eve offered to Adam, interesting, isn't it?

Now let’s look at the possible health benefits that can be derived from the sweet nutritious bananas which range from cardiovascular health benefits to even cancer.

Health Benefits of eating a Banana

Lowers Blood Pressure

Sticking to a low sodium diet is important to lowering blood pressure, but increasing potassium intake can also be as essential. Since potassium have vasodilation effects. Potassium also keeps electricity flowing throughout the body which helps the beating of the heart. High potassium intakes have been associated with reduced risk of Stroke and dying from Ischemic heart disease.

Memory Preserver and Mood Booster

Bananas contain tryptophan, an amino acid which the body converts to serotonin, a mood-elevating brain neurotransmitter, and also plays a role in preserving memory. It also contains vitamin B6 which helps in getting better sleep.

Prevent Anemia

The vitamin C content of banana helps improve the absorption of nutrients such as Iron. Banana also have a significant amount of iron within it.

Diabetes

Due to its fiber content, it can help diabetes patients improve their blood sugar, lipids and insulin (type 2) levels. Studies have shown that high-fiber diets are linked to these benefits.

Weight loss and Improved digestion

Since bananas are high in fiber, they are filling and can help curb cravings. They naturally taste sweet, so that can curb your sweet tooth; a banana contains 90 calories which is one-fourth of calories from a chocolate candy bar. Its fat and cholesterol free, so you can substitute it for butter or oil in cookies.

Half of the fiber content of banana is soluble which absorbs water when it gets into the digestive tract, thereby slowing digestion and keeping you feeling full longer. Its insoluble fiber content helps clean up the digestive tract. It’s a good recipe for going to the toilet daily.

Diarrhea treatment

During a phase of diarrhea, electrolytes are lost such as potassium which makes the individual weak. Banana is a good source of potassium and since it’s a bland food, it can help in recovery.

Vision

Bananas might not be on the list of super eyes foods but it can surely do some magic too. Banana contains a significant amount of vitamin A, which is essential for protecting your eyes, maintaining normal vision and improving vision at night.

Healthy Bones

Banana contains no calcium but it contains an abundance of fructooligosaccharides. These are non-digestible carbohydrates that encourage digestive-friendly probiotics and enhance the body's ability to absorb calcium.

Cancer

As a good source of antioxidants such as vitamin C, bananas can help combat the formation of free radicals known to cause cancer. Research has shown that consuming bananas, oranges and orange juice in the first two years of life may reduce the risk of developing childhood Leukemia. The high fiber content can also lower the risk of colorectal cancer.

Please read this article before you introduce banana into your diet; Health risks of going Bananas!

You can read up on facts on bananas that will surprise you!