Banana: A Powerhouse of Nutrients and Health Benefits

Most people link bananas with comedy gags because of the classic banana-peel-slip act that has been around for ages. But as banana shot into popularity and many favored its sweet taste as well as its inexpensive price tag, it became known for its powerhouse nutrients and health benefits.
Banana fruits come in bunches, each composed of many fingers or single banana fruit. It is believed to be a native of Malysia which eventually spread to other Asian countries sometime in 327 BC. Although the usual skin color of the banana is yellow but also come in red, black or purple.
They can be purchased as ready to eat when ripe or still in green color. If you want to speed up the ripening of bananas, simply wrap them in a paper and leave them at room temperature. They naturally produce ethylene which is responsible for their ripening and sweet flavor. The formation of ethylene signals the production of amylase that converts starch into sugar as well as pectinase that softens the fruit. Sometimes you will notice dark spots on the skin of bananas but dont throw it because they don't really affect the flesh. Bananas have seeds, but most common varieties have reduced them into tiny specks in the flesh of the fruit.
They are great for breakfast as they provide energy through carbs and B-vitamins. They are ideal for dieters because they are low in calories and fat-content but high in water and potassium levels. Moreover, high intake of potassium and lower sodium intake can decrease water weight. Vitamin B6 is also found in bananas which helps in the production of hemoglobin for the blood. It also boosts immune system by aiding in the manufacturing of antibodies.
High potassium content of bananas is the most notable nutrient of this fruit. Just by eating a piece of banana after every meal is already enough for the body’s daily requirement. With enough potassium, kidney problems can be minimized, too. It’s also good for the bones because it prevents loss of calcium through urine. It is a common result of diets that are high in sodium.
They can also prevent the development of stomach ulcer because of antacid effect and protease inhibitors that removes some stomach bacteria. Also, there are substances present in bananas that stimulate cells to produce a thick mucus barrier that protects against stomach acids. The fructooligosaccharides which encourages growth of friendly bacteria in the colon is also found in bananas. Friendly bacteria or probiotics trigger the production of essential vitamins and enzymes that protect the digestive system from harmful microbes and at the same time improve the body's ability to efficiently absorb nutrients like calcium.
Both the flesh and the skin of banana are edible. They can be eaten raw, fried, boiled and even made into a delicious dessert. Bananas are also great addition to other dishes. If you get tired of eating it fresh or making a dessert out of them, try adding sliced bananas to your morning cereal and you’re sure to get an extra dose of energy.
It’s also a good idea to stock on bananas so you can reach for one whenever you crave for something sweet for dessert. They are great substitute for junk foods as snacks. Not only will you get satisfied, your taste buds will be delighted and your body will reap the healthy benefits that comes with it, too.


Ludovic Beraud