Everybody loves the sweet taste of bananas. They are one of the most portable, convenient, and healthy snacks one can think of. Bananas are a close relative to the plantain, which is larger and darker. They make great additions to smoothies, yogurt, and are equally delicious frozen or fresh by themselves. Let’s take a look at the many health benefits of bananas. Cancer prevention: Bananas contain cancer fighters called catechins and delphinidin. They are natural antioxidants. Studies have shown diets rich in bananas and other fruits can reduce the risk of breast cancer. According to a study in the International Journal of Cancer, the risk of developing kidney cancer is greatly decreased when eat fruits and vegetables, especially bananas. Digestion and natural laxative: Bananas help relieve the symptoms of constipation and diarrhea. They contain pectin, which helps stabilize the digestive system and relieve constipation. They also relieve these symptoms by helping to replenish electrolytes. They are a great source of potassium, which is a very important electrolyte. Healthy bones: Too much sodium in the diet can cause an excess of calcium to be lost through the urine, therefore weakening the bones. Potassium combats these effects by neutralizing the extra sodium, keeping calcium in the body. Lower blood pressure: High in potassium and yet low in salt, bananas are the ideal food for lowering blood pressure. An average banana contains a whopping 467 mg of potassium and only 1 mg of sodium. According to the American Heart Association, the potassium in bananas is key to lowering blood pressure, and should be a staple in the diet of those with high blood pressure. Stomach strength: Bananas contain pectin, a soluble fiber (called a hydrocolloid) that may help normalize bowel movement and ease constipation. Bananas have an anti-acid effect and stimulate the production of mucus in the stomach, which helps protect against stomach acids. Bananas also help kill the bacteria than causes stomach ulcers. Vitamin B6: Did you know that just one banana contains 34% of the recommended daily value for vitamin B6? This vitamin is important for overall health. Vitamin B6 is an anti-inflammatory agent, supports the nervous system functions, helps reduce the risk of heart disease, and so much more. Breakfast tip: Start the day well: Mix a medium sliced banana and 1 medium sliced apple in bowl Add 1 tbsp of chia seeds Sprinkle with 1/4 tsp of organic cinnamon It’s an easy way to include a cancer fighter into your diet, right at the start of each day! banana_nutritional_facts For an energy boosting smoothie with bananas. For an antioxidant packed smoothie with bananas. REFERENCES: 1. “Fruits, Vegetables and Risk of Renal Cell Carcinoma: A Prospective Study of Swedish Women.” National Center for Biotechnology Information. U.S. National Library of Medicine, 20 Jan. 2005. Web. 05 July 2013. 2. “Potassium and High Blood Pressure.” American Heart Association. American Heart Association, 04 Apr. 2012. Web. 05 July 2013. 3. Nutritiondata: “Bananas, Raw“. Web. 7 July 2013. 2013
Posted on: Wed, 11 Sep 2013 19:57:40 +0000
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