Banana cakes, banana pudding, banana pie and banana split. Goodie Goodie Yum Yum! There are so many ways by which bananas can be consumed. The natural sweetness of the fruit and the convenience of eating it when on-the-go put bananas at the top of my list of favourite fruits to eat. The ubiquitous tropical fruit is not only cheap, but they are also packed with an array of nutrients that can help to promote emotional well being, improve physical health and address illnesses as well as act as natural remedy to common health problems. Some of the many benefits bananas offer are listed below.
Uplifting your spirit
Tryptophan which is believed to relieve depression and lift your spirits can be found in bananas. This protein plays a role in producing mood regulating chemical known as serotonin that induces a sense of calm and acts as a mild sedative. Since our body does not produce Tryptophan, it is imperative that we ensure our diet consists of food that contains the chemical. Banana is a prime example of food which can be consumed so we get adequate dose of Tryptophan.
Maintaining healthy eyes
Findings reported in a monthly professional medical journal published by the American Medical Association i.e. the Archives of Ophthalmology indicate that 3 servings of fruit per day can prevent loss of vision. Bananas which contain Vitamin A are good example of fruit that can help to maintain healthy eyes. Vitamin A deficiency may increase the risk of cataracts and in some cases blindness. As such to continue seeing the beauty that the world offers, sufficient intake of Vitamin A is paramount. Bananas can provide you with just that.
Keeping your kidney and bones healthy
Another benefit that bananas provide is potassium. Rich in Potassium, bananas benefit the kidneys as it minimizes loss of calcium from the body by suppressing calcium excretion in the urine based on an article published by University of Maryland Medical Centre on their website. By making sure calcium loss is kept to a minimum, the body is able to retain and maintain adequate calcium level thereby reducing the risk of osteoporosis.
Reducing the risk of blood pressure and stroke
High potassium and low sodium content in banana make them naturally ideal as supplement for high blood pressure sufferers. Additionally, bananas may also help to combat stroke as found in a study featured in the New England Journal of Medicine. It is reported that bananas can reduce death incidence caused by stroke by 40% when consumed as part of regular diet
Promoting Bowel Health
Most people have experienced at some point in their lives disruption in bowel activities either due to unbalanced diet or illness. To restore and maintain regular bowel movement, fibre is highly important component in the foods that we consume. Yet another benefit bananas offer, the natural fibre in bananas can help promote bowel health.
Addressing Anaemia
Anaemia which is a condition that is cause by iron deficiency can be addressed by eating bananas which are rich in iron. Sufficient intake of iron promotes blot clotting following an injury so as to minimize blood loss. For people suffering from a deficiency in iron, bananas help to give your body the iron that it needs. As a result, they help promote haemoglobin production so your blood can clot faster in case of a cut or serious injury. Bananas are good source of iron which is essential to address anaemia.
Quitting smoking?
If you are quitting smoking, it is worth to note that bananas can be your great ally when dealing with the physical and psychological effects of nicotine withdrawal. The yellow skinned fruits are loaded with B vitamins and other minerals which provide some relief from nicotine withdrawal.
Soothing Ulcers
Bananas contain antacid properties which are beneficial in treating intestinal disorders like ulcers. By forming a protective layer on stomach lining, bananas help to neutralize acid secreted by our digestive system so as to provide relief from painful ulcers.
Healing Mosquito Bites
If you think banana skin is useless think again. An old remedy to ease itching and swelling caused by mosquito bites, banana skin are said to soothe these symptoms. Living in a tropical country like Malaysia, you are bound to get mosquito bites at some point in your lives. So before you make your way to the drug store to buy some medicated cream, try rubbing the inside of banana skin on the affected area. It wouldn’t hurt to try.
Expecting?
Great news for all expectant mothers. The potassium in bananas can help to combat fatigue caused by pregnancy. So to all mothers-to-be, go ahead and snack on some. Not only will you alleviate morning sickness but it also keeps blood glucose level up so you feel better throughout your pregnancy.
Going bananas may be a good thing when the fruit is concerned. Eating bananas as part of a balanced diet ensures that your body gets what it needs so you are armed with a healthy body and mind to face life’s little challenges. Live and let live.