Banana is the fourth most popular selling fruit on the planet. It is grown in 107 countries, so it would be wise and rational to know a little more about its nutritional value and clarify- is eating banana everyday really worth it?
BANANAS ARE THE SOURCE OF POTASSIUM
Potassium is one of the most important nutrients that help cells to function properly. It triggers insulin release to control the amount of sugar in blood and maintains optimal pressure. Majority of the studies show that potassium intake can reduce the risk of death from most diseases. Recommended norm of potassium intake for adults is 3500-4700 mg per day. The average banana contains about 450 mg which is quite solid. However, do not forget that excess of potassium can be dangerous for people with kidneys’ problems.
BANANAS MAKE US MORE HARDY
For decades, athletes have believed that consuming carbohydrates during long physical activities helps to train with higher intensity and to recover faster than usual. The most digestible form of carbohydrates is sugar (does not matter in glucose, fructose) which is provided by sport drinks. However, in 2012 researchers from Appalachian State University in Kannapolis began to think about fruits as a healthier alternative to sport drinks during exercises. Scientists have discovered that professional cyclists feel better during the ride and after it, if they eat half of banana every 30 minutes.
BANANAS BOOST YOUR MOOD
This fruit also has the ability to impact on our feeling of happiness. The reason is that bananas are the great source of amino acid- tryptophan.Our body usually converts it to serotonin. Serotonin is a common neuromediator in the brain; it controls our biological clocks, appetite, emotions and etc.
BANANAS SUPPORT OPTIMAL BLOOD PRESSURE
A common misconception is that only sodium is responsible for lowering blood pressure. In fact, it is a right balance of sodium and potassium. It is estimated that less than 2% of all adults comply with the recommended daily intake of potassium. It means that majority of people do not monitor pressure and do not support balance.
BANANAS STRENGTHEN HEART’S HEALTH
Increasing potassium level while reducing sodium in our body is probably the most important prevention of cardiovascular diseases. One study found that people who take at least 4.069 mg of potassium per day reduce the risk of death from coronary heart disease by 49%. However, those who consume less than 1000 mg have a higher risk. By the way, avocados have a similar effect.
BANANAS SAVE YOUR INTESTINES
Doctors recommend a diet which consists of following products: bananas, rice, apples and toasts. It is good for people with digestive problems. Bananas are not only easy to digest; they also replace vital electrolytes in the body, since most of them are lost during a digestive diseases. The fiber in bananas also contributes to a balanced bowel’s functioning.
BANANAS CAN CAUSE HEADACHES
Also bananas can cause migraines if you have predisposition to regular headaches. In this case, it is necessary to control your daily norm of banana’s consumption. Try to minimize it and see the results.
And finally, some people have an allergy to bananas. In addition, you should not forget about other products which have even higher levels of potassium in it. For example, tomatoes, watermelon, beans, and pumpkin), moreover, it has much less calories.
As you can see, eating bananas daily has more benefits for your health and only one side effect, which you can prevent easily by rational approach to your diet.
Recommended article: How Does Food Impact on Us
