Oringinal article can be found
hereThe Benefits of BananasBananas consist mainly of sugars (glucose, fructose and sucrose) and fiber, which makes them ideal for an immediate and slightly prolonged source of energy
Reducing Depression
Bananas contain tryptophan, an aminoacid that can be converted to serotonin, leading to improved mood
Anemia
Bananas are relatively high in iron, which helps the body's hemoglobin function
Constipation and DiarrheaDue to their content in fiber, they help restore a normal bowel function. In addition, diarrhea usually depletes your body of important electrolytes (of which the most important is potassium, contained in high amounts in bananas). They also contain pectin, a soluble fiber (hydrocolloid) that can help normalize movement through the digestive tract.
Eyesight ProtectionResearch published in the Archives of Ophthalmology has proven that adults consuming at least 3 servings of fruit per day have a reduced risk (by 36%) of developing age-related macular degeneration (ARMD), the primary cause of vision loss in older adults, compared to persons who consume less than 1.5 servings of fruit daily.
Healthy BonesBananas are an exceptionally rich source of fructooligosaccharide, a compound that nourishes probiotic (friendly) bacteria in the colon. These beneficial bacteria produce enzymes that increase our digestive ability and protect us from unhealthy bacteria infections. Thanks to fructooligosaccharides, probiotic bacteria can increase both in number and functionality, increasing our body's ability to absorb calcium.In addition, green bananas contain indigestible short chain fatty acids (SCFAs) that are very nutrient to the cells that make up the mucosa of the stomach. These cells, when healthy, absorb calcium much more efficiently
Healthy Kidney
About 190,000 cases of kidney cancer are diagnosed each year.Research published in the International Journal of Cancer has shown that daily consumption of whole fruits and vegetables, especially bananas, is highly protective to kidney health. The results show that, over a long timeframe (13.4 years), women eating more than 2.5 servings of fruits and vegetable per day cut their risk of kidney cancer by 40%. Among the fruits, bananas were especially protective. Women eating bananas four to six times a week halved their risk of developing the disease compared to those who did not eat this fruit. The conclusion of the study is that frequent consumption of fruits and vegetables, especially bananas, cabbage and root vegetables, may reduce risk of kidney cancer. This is because bananas and many root vegetables contain especially high amounts of antioxidant phenolic compounds, while cabbage is rich in sulfur, necessary for effective detoxification of potential carcinogens.
Blood Pressure
Bananas are extremely high in potassium (about 4673mg), yet very low in sodium (1mg), thus having a perfect ratio for preventing high blood pressure. So much so, the US Food and Drug Administration has just allowed the banana industry to make official claims for the fruit's ability to reduce the risk of blood pressure and stroke.
HeartburnBananas have a natural antacid effect in the body, so if you suffer from heartburn, try eating a banana for soothing relief.
Morning SicknessSnacking on bananas between meals helps to keep blood-sugar levels up and avoid morning sickness.
SmokingBananas can also help people trying to give up smoking. They contain vitamins B6 and B12 they contain, as well as potassium and magnesium: these substances help the body recover from the effects of nicotine withdrawal.
UlcersThis is the only raw fruit that can be eaten without distress in over-chronicle cases. It also helps reduce acidity and reduces irritation. Bananas stimulate the cells on the internal stomach lining to produce a thicker mucus (which protects against acid). Additionally, bananas contain protease inhibitors that help eliminate bacteria in the stomach that have been pinpointed as a primary cause of ulcers.
Nerves
Bananas are high in B vitamins that have been shows to improve nerve function
Mosquito BitesMany people report that rubbing the inside of a banana peel on a mosquito bite is very effective in reducing itching and swelling
Stress Relief
Bananas are high in potassium, which helps normalize the hearthbeat and regulate the body's water balance. During periods of high stress, our body's potassium levels tend to be rapidly depleted: eating bananas is a healthy way to rebalance them without using drugs
Stroke RiskAccording to a study in The New England Journal of Medicine, eating bananas as part of a regular diet can reduce the risk of death by strokes by as much as 40%
**********************************************************************************Bananas are also a great post workout snack, they provide a burst of energy for your drive/walk/run home, and they also aid in muscle recovery.
Bananas also make a fantastic bread, the most magical bread in all the world of breads! Here is a recipe I grew up on, I modify it a bit during training season by taking out 1/4 cup of flour and adding vanilla protein powder, and instead of the oil I substitute for applesauce (the same amount). In off season I'll keep the original recipe but add walnuts, dried cranberries and white chocolate chips, I heart off season!
Mom's Banana Bread1 1/2 cups + 4 tsp all purpose flour
2 tsp baking powder
1/4 baking soda
1/2 tsp salt
1 tsp nutmeg
2 eggs
2 Tbsp vegetable oil
2/3 cup sugar
1 cup mashed ripe banana; frozen or fresh
1) preheat oven to 350, grease a loaf pan or muffin tins.
2) Sift and measure flour. Add salt, baking powder, baking soda and nutmeg; mix well.
3) In a small bowl beat egg and oil, add sugar and banana; mix well.
4) Make a well in the dry ingredients, add liquid all at once; stir just until moist.
5) Bake for 45 mninutes if using a loaf pan, and 25 minutes if using muffin tins. let cool and enjoy!
