Bananas is the fruit that’s usually sitting on your kitchen counter until it turns brown.
Many people avoid bananas because they’re high in carbs and sugar compared to most other fruits. But that doesn’t mean bananas can’t be part of a healthy diet. In fact, there are many banana benefits you probably haven’t considered. Read on for some convincing reasons to add more bananas to your diet.
Bananas are rich in potassium
One of the main reasons we need potassium is to regulate fluid balance in our bodies. Potassium has also been shown to lower blood pressure, strengthen bones, and promote proper muscle function.
Bananas are an excellent source of potassium.
Bananas are full of fiber
As you probably know fiber helps you slim down and boosts your metabolism. Bananas contain soluble fiber, which swells like a sponge in your stomach giving food a jellylike bulk that makes you feel full. Soluble fiber also binds with calories and fat in the stomach and intestines and pulls them out of the body before they can enter the bloodstream. Soluble fiber also supports blood glucose levels, supports your body with sustained energy, and helps you have regular bowel movements.
Bananas are great for workouts
If weight loss is not a priority, bananas are good sources of carbohydrates and will provide fuel for workouts. They also may help reduce exercise-related muscle cramps and soreness.
Do bananas cause constipation?
Bananas are rich in fiber, which is key for fighting constipation and bloating. One reason many people might feel constipated when eating bananas is that fiber needs water to do its job, so make sure you’re drinking plenty of water if you’re eating a fiber-rich diet.
Also, unripe bananas – greenish yellow in color – can cause constipation, while ripe bananas relieve it. Unripe bananas have more starch, whereas riper ones have more fiber.
Banana nutrition facts
Your typical banana contains about 30 grams of carbohydrates and 14 grams of sugar, which is about double of what you’ll get with a cup of raspberries.
An average banana also contains 1 gram of protein, 3 grams of fiber, and less than 1 gram of fat. It’s also high in potassium (422 mg.), magnesium (32 mg.), vitamin C (10 mg.), and vitamin B6 (0.4 mg.).
While it’s healthy to eat bananas, you should be conscious of the amount you’re eating and careful not to overdo it.
Some people like them mixed with their favorite breakfast cereal, or making a smoothie, or using them in baking. The options are endless, so enjoy.
That’s it for now; see you all the next time.