A banana is a natural remedy for many illnesses. It can help overcome or prevent a substantial number of conditions, making it a “must add” to your daily diet. When you compare it to an apple, it has four times the protein, twice the carbs, three times the phosphorous and five times the vitamin A and iron. It is also rich in potassium and is one of the best “value” foods around. Read on to see just how valuable, healthy, and nutritious a banana can be…
Bananas contain three natural sugars (sucrose, fructose, and glucose), combined with fiber. A banana gives an instant, sustained and substantial boost of energy. Research has proven that just two bananas provide enough energy for a strenuous ninety minute workout! No wonder bananas are the number one fruit with the world’s leading athletes. Below are just some of the other benefits a banana can provide…
DEPRESSION – According to a recent study by MIND among people suffering from depression, many patients felt much better after eating a banana. This is because bananas contain tryptophan, a type of protein that the body converts into serotonin, known to make you relax, improve your mood, and generally make you feel happier.
PMS – Forget the pills! Eat a banana…the vitamin B6 it contains regulates blood glucose levels, which can affect your mood.
ANEMIA – High in iron, a banana can stimulate the production of hemoglobin in the blood and have a positive efffect on people with anemia.
BLOOD PRESSURE – This unique fruit is extremely high in potassium yet low in sodium (salt), making it perfect to beat high blood pressure. So much so that the USDA has just allowed the banana industry to make official claims for the fruit’s ability to reduce the risk of blood pressure and stroke.
BRAIN POWER – Research has shown that this potassium-packed fruit can assist learning by making students more alert.
CONSTIPATION – Because they are high in fiber, including bananas in your diet can help to maintain and/or restore normal bowel function .
HEARTBURN – Bananas have a natural antacid effect in the body. If you suffer from heartburn, try eating a banana for soothing relief.
MORNING SICKNESS – Snacking on bananas between meals helps to keep blood sugar levels up, minimizing morning sickness.
MOSQUITO BITES – Before reaching for the insect bite cream, try rubbing the affected area with the inside of a banana skin. Many find it amazingly successful at reducing swelling and irritation.
NERVES – Bananas are high in B vitamins and this can help calm the nervous system.
SMOKING AND TOBACCO USE – Bananas can help people who are trying to give up smoking and other tobacco products. The B6, B12, potassium, and magnesium they contain all help the body recover from the effects of nicotine withdrawal.
STRESS – Potassium is a vital mineral which helps to normalize the heartbeat, send oxygen to the brain, and regulate your body’s water content. When we are stressed, our metabolic rate rises, thereby reducing our potassium levels. These can all be rebalanced with the help of a high-potassium banana snack.
STROKES – According to the NEJM, eating bananas as part of your regular diet can cut the risk of death by stroke by as much as 40%.
So go “Bananas” over bananas!!!
ps-Bananas must be the reason monkeys are so happy all of the time!
Information from CCNY (physiological psych)
