Baked banana benefits and harms. Benefits and harms of bananas for the health of the body. How to peel a banana - which side to open

Bananas are one of the most perfect creations of nature with numerous healing and healing properties. Not only are they exceptionally tasty, but they're so nutrient-dense that it's easier to list the ones they don't have.

The benefits of bananas are undeniable - the vitamins, minerals and other nutrients found in bananas have a comprehensive effect on our health and beauty, bringing us various benefits.

Consider the benefits of bananas can be obtained in various diseases and life situations.

With hypertension

The fact is that bananas have a fairly high content of potassium and almost no sodium. One medium-sized fruit contains about 400 mg of potassium and only 1 mg of sodium. Potassium and sodium are essential for maintaining water balance in the body.

It has been scientifically proven that regular consumption of just two bananas a day reduces blood pressure by 10%. The effect of this is to reduce the risk of hypertension leading to atherosclerosis, diseases of the cardiovascular system, strokes and strokes. Therefore, the benefits of bananas for hypertension are undeniable.

Bananas for fatigue and stress

Due to the presence of magnesium, bananas are considered an anti-stress and calming food. Eating foods rich in magnesium is recommended for people with increased anxiety, concentration problems, chronic stress, chronic fatigue, neurosis and insomnia.

In addition to magnesium, bananas are also a good source of tryptophan, under the influence of which the body produces serotonin, the so-called happiness hormone. It affects the improvement of the mental state, causing a feeling of pleasure or even euphoria.

Vitamin B6 and folic acid involved in the synthesis of serotonin, which are also present in bananas, have the ability to reduce the level of homocysteine ​​in the blood. The fact is that a high concentration of this amino acid has a harmful effect on health, in particular, it interferes with the production of serotonin. Therefore, the benefits of bananas for fatigue and stress have been proven and cannot be in doubt.

Bananas to reduce symptoms of PMS in women

The benefits of bananas for PMS are high in magnesium and vitamin B6. A useful property of magnesium is its relaxing effect on muscular system. Magnesium helps reduce pain syndrome during menstruation.

Vitamin B6 also relieves the symptoms of premenstrual syndrome and reduces the intensity of pain, helps in regulating the menstrual cycle.

Due to the fact that magnesium is absorbed better when combined with vitamin B6, the presence of both of these nutrients in bananas is especially welcome.

Bananas for the male reproductive system

The benefits of bananas for men is that they increase potency and improve sperm quality.

With the constant use of bananas, the potency increases, its duration increases. Also, the benefits of eating bananas increase libido and also increase sperm activity.

With increased acidity and stomach ulcers

Due to the fact that the texture of bananas is very soft, they do not irritate the walls of the digestive tract of people suffering from stomach ulcers. In addition, these fruits help to neutralize the increased acidity in the stomach. For these reasons, the benefits of bananas for stomach problems are available and their presence in the diet of a patient with a stomach ulcer is recommended.

In addition, there is evidence that bananas help stimulate the growth of cells in the gastric mucosa and increase mucus secretion. Thus, they protect the gastric mucosa from the harmful effects of digestive juices.

For diarrhea and heartburn

As a rule, diarrhea quickly leads to dehydration. And here the benefits of bananas due to the presence of pectin and potassium in them can be fully applied.

Pectins help bind water and absorb toxins. This affects the formation of a more stable stool consistency and helps to get rid of dangerous substances from the body. The presence of potassium, in turn, contributes to the replenishment of the deficiency of this electrolyte, which is formed as a result of prolonged diarrhea.

If you often suffer from heartburn, do not immediately grab the pills, just eat a banana. This fruit will naturally relieve the symptoms of heartburn and neutralize the acid in the stomach.

Good source of energy

Although the calorie content of bananas is relatively high - about 89 kcal per 100 g - they help to reduce body weight. Tryptophan, mentioned above, is involved in metabolism, digestion improves vitamin B6 and manganese involved in the metabolism of carbohydrates, fats and proteins. In turn, the presence of pectin fibers and water in the stomach causes a feeling of satiety for a long time.

Protect skin from harmful free radicals

Vitamin C, vitamin A and vitamin E, also called youth vitamins, have powerful antioxidant properties.

In addition, vitamin C, as an antioxidant, is necessary for the production of collagen, which not only prevents the formation of new wrinkles, but also smoothes existing ones.

Bananas for iron deficiency

If anemia is caused by iron deficiency (80% of all cases) or folic acid, having bananas in the diet can help. The level of iron in them, as in most fruits, is low, but due to the presence of vitamin C, the absorption of this element improves.

Bananas also contain macro and micronutrients such as potassium, magnesium, phosphorus, selenium, zinc, sodium and vitamin A, vitamin B1, vitamin B2, vitamin B3, vitamin B6, vitamin E, vitamin K. The benefits of bananas are due to the presence of these nutrients , which contribute to the creation of a balanced and varied diet, which is the basis for the prevention and treatment of anemia.

Good source of folic acid

Folic acid, present in bananas, is needed for the normal functioning of the nervous system of adults and children. Its deficiency in pregnant women can lead to serious fetal malformations - the so-called neural tube defect.

These defects are formed at an early stage of development of the baby in the womb. Therefore, taking folic acid is indicated already a few months before the expected pregnancy and it is recommended to continue taking it especially in the first trimester. That is why the benefits of bananas during pregnancy are especially great.

During physical and mental labor

Bananas are a source of easily digestible carbohydrates that provide the body with the energy it needs to work. The more mature the fruit, the less starch and more simple sugars, including glucose, which is the main fuel for the brain and muscles.

Bananas Help Prevent and Treat Osteoporosis

A properly balanced diet plays a key role in building healthy, strong bones. Bananas contain a number of nutrients that have a positive effect on this process:

  • Calcium is the main building block of bones and teeth. Bananas are not particularly rich in this mineral (5.0 mg per 100 g of fruit), but any additional dietary source is welcome.
  • Vitamin C is involved in the synthesis of collagen, which is the main building block of connective tissue and is involved in bone regeneration after fractures.
  • Magnesium facilitates the proper absorption of calcium into the bones and activates many of the enzymes involved in bone building.
  • Manganese supports the proper formation of connective tissue.
  • Zinc and copper are involved in bone mineralization.

Bananas help hydrate the body

Water is necessary for life, takes part in a number of processes occurring in the human body. It transports oxygen and nutrients, participates in digestion, helps cleanse the body of toxic metabolic products, and regulates body temperature. Bananas are especially rich in water and contain over 70% of their weight.

Bananas strengthen the immune system

The benefits of bananas for strengthening immunity are great. Vitamin C and vitamin E play a special role in this matter. The body's defenses are also stimulated by vitamin B6. It takes part in the production of antibodies and red blood cells. Preferably, selenium, zinc, copper and magnesium affect the immune system.

Bananas are a natural prebiotic - they stimulate the proliferation of beneficial probiotic bacteria in the gut. This is especially important if your intestinal bacterial flora is out of balance as a result of taking antibiotics.

Harm of bananas and contraindications

Despite many positive properties, the harm of bananas in certain situations should not be discounted. Consider possible harm that bananas can cause.

  • The presence of bananas in the diet of diabetics is not recommended. This is due to the relatively high glycemic index of the fruit. Its value increases with the degree of maturity of the fetus and can even reach more than 70.
  • You should not eat a lot of bananas for people suffering from thrombophlebitis, varicose veins, as well as survivors of a stroke or heart attack, as bananas thicken the blood and can contribute to the formation of blood clots.
  • Bananas should not be eaten by people with irritable bowel syndrome because it can exacerbate symptoms.
  • Bananas are not a fast digesting food. If you eat a banana before your main meal, you may experience bloating.
  • You should not eat green bananas - they contain insoluble starch that the body does not process, resulting in unpleasant effects - bloating, flatulence.
  • Some people may be allergic to bananas.
  • Bananas are not recommended for babies under one year old.

How many calories are in bananas?

Bananas are a high-calorie fruit. How many calories in a banana is highly dependent on the size and maturity of the particular banana. One banana usually has 70-100 calories. Green bananas can have over 110 calories. If we talk about the value per 100 grams, then in a banana there are approximately 89/100 grams of weight. Therefore, a banana is undoubtedly a nutritious food.

Bananas with milk and cottage cheese

The combination of bananas with milk, kefir can cause unpleasant effects - bloating, flatulence, digestive disorders.

Despite this, there are diets that include bananas with milk as the basis of nutrition. One such diet recommends eating three bananas a day with milk, which improves the absorption of the nutrients contained in the banana. For such purposes, milk with low fat content should be selected.

Good day, dear friends and guests of the blog. Recently, a cult has developed healthy lifestyle life and proper nutrition. And it is quite logical that people have more and more questions about the beneficial and harmful qualities of many products. Our topic today will be bananas - the benefits and harms of their use.

In our country, a banana is considered an exotic berry. Yes, yes, it is a berry, not a fruit, as we used to think. There are not so many varieties on our shelves, there are about 400 of them in the world. Nevertheless, you can easily find small bananas, apple-flavored fruits, less often red or black ones.

I will dispel another myth, the fruits do not grow on palm trees, but on a herbaceous perennial plant with powerful massive leaves. The fruits grow in warm countries and are still green.

They are delivered to us at a low temperature in special chambers, and ripen in gas chambers, only then getting on the shelves. Read on about how best to choose the fruits, in what form to eat them and what they bring in themselves - benefit or harm.

Benefit and harm to the body

The benefits of fruits are obvious and undeniable. This is a great snack for people who are not on a strict diet, hearty and nutritious. Bananas have a rich composition, they are full of vitamins and trace elements necessary for a person. Let's see what the benefits of yellow exotic berries are:

  • Normalizes pressure, namely decreases. If you want to benefit from fruits, eat at least a banana a day.
  • Now you can find gastritis in every second, and most products irritate the walls of the stomach even more. A banana for the stomach and the entire gastrointestinal tract will benefit, as it envelops the walls of the stomach without irritating it.
  • It has a beneficial effect on the cardiovascular system, thanks to carotene.
  • The use of fruits is the prevention of cancer, they are also shown to be added to the diet for radiation sickness.
  • It improves the body's water metabolism, helps to cope with edema. For this, you can thank the presence of potassium, it also normalizes the acid-base balance. Experts advise eating only 2 medium bananas a day to get your daily potassium intake.
  • A banana is good for the liver, also thanks to potassium. It improves metabolism and promotes the absorption of proteins.
  • Yellow "fruit" helps smokers to give up addiction and get rid of nicotine addiction.
  • The presence of B vitamins in the composition ensures a healthy look for nails, hair and skin. The fruit is useful to eat, it will act from the inside. It is also added to various masks, it is not uncommon to find it in the composition of creams, shampoos and other cosmetics. It allows you to keep youth and always be in good shape.
  • The berry helps to cope with depression, improves mood. Increasing serotonin levels helps beat migraines. The fetus quickly recuperates, so be in good standing with athletes.
  • Eating large amounts of fruit can cause drowsiness.

In addition to useful properties, there are limitations and contraindications:

  • Unripe, green bananas are high in starch. This has a detrimental effect on the body, and in particular on the gastrointestinal tract, an intensive process of gas formation begins. Although the sugar in unripe bananas is much less.
  • Exclude berries from the diet for diabetics, because of the high sugar content.
  • For the same reason, banana should not be consumed by people who have weight problems.
  • In rare cases, an allergic reaction may occur.
  • It is necessary to avoid the use of the product by people with ischemic disease heart and thrombophlebitis.

It should be remembered that a banana is not a magic wand and not pills, it is only a useful “fruit”. So don't expect instant results.

The benefits and harms of bananas for women

You have already seen that an exotic fruit is good for the body as a whole. Women will find at least 3 more positive points:

  1. The hormonal background of a woman is more shaky and unpredictable than that of men. This is especially noticeable before the "critical days", women at this time are characterized by strong irritability and sudden mood swings. Bananas are able to improve the mood of a woman during this period.
  2. It is known that representatives of the beautiful half of humanity devote more time to self-care than men. Banana is a great helper in this area. It can be added to the diet and it will nourish the body from the inside. It can be added to home, hair and body formulations. After using natural banana cosmetics, the skin will become pleasant and velvety, and the hair will look healthy.
  3. Lovers of "fruit" have no problems in intimate life, because it increases the level of oxytocin. If you regularly eat the fruit, the lady will always have a healthy attraction to the opposite sex.

During pregnancy

Expectant mothers treat their diet with special trepidation. After all, now they are responsible not only for their health, but also for new life that grows inside. Bananas during pregnancy are not only possible, but also necessary. True, their choice should be treated with special attention.

The berry is very nutritious and has a rich composition. Its great advantage is that you can eat it on the street, you just need to remove the skin. It is very convenient for expectant mothers, because they spend a lot of time outdoors.

What other advantages are there:

  1. "Fruit" saves from toxicosis in the early stages of pregnancy, it comes to the rescue of many. It does not have a sharp, unpleasant odor.
  2. Potassium helps with swelling, which is a common problem during pregnancy.
  3. Vitamin B6 forms the circulatory system of the unborn baby.
  4. Vitamin C improves immunity, strengthens blood vessels, which is the prevention of varicose veins and gum bleeding. Vitamin C contributes to the quality absorption of iron.
  5. Folic acid forms the nervous system of the unborn child, it is also found in greens.
  6. Banana helps expectant mothers cope with heartburn and possible problems GI tract (constipation).
  7. Zinc affects the development of the baby's taste buds.
  8. During pregnancy, a woman especially needs calcium, a banana is an excellent source of this element.

It is recommended to eat a couple of bananas a day, however, excessive consumption of the product can lead to the rapid appearance of extra pounds. Just carefully eat bananas with milk, and you should generally refuse green fruits. Otherwise, it is worth adhering to general contraindications.

For men

First of all, the regular use of "fruit" affects the improvement of the reproductive function of men. Improves erection, duration of sexual intercourse and sperm quality. The work of the nervous system is also getting better, which allows you to avoid psychological problems in an intimate way.

In addition, the fruit is nutritious and betrays a lot of strength, so it will be useful to add it to the male diet. Dishes with a banana will betray vivacity.

Benefits and harms for children

We have already said more than once that the yellow "fruit" is very nutritious. Iron, fluorine, potassium, magnesium, sodium in the composition help to form muscle and bone tissues, are useful for the brain and other systems of the child.

Starch is converted into glucose, which is so necessary for a growing organism. B vitamins have a positive effect on the nervous system and improve sleep. Fiber helps to remove decay products from the body and improves the functioning of the digestive tract. Bananas improve concentration, which is useful for older children.

It is recommended to feed babies with exotic “fruit” from 9 months and after the child has tried fruits growing in our climate and vegetable puree. Avoid unripe bananas and mix with milk carefully.

calories

The calorie content of exotic berries is high - about 120 kcal per medium fruit (dried - 300 kcal). Such a fruit contains almost 30 grams of carbohydrates, and almost half of them are sugar, only 1.5 grams of protein and twice as much fiber.

The fruit has a low glycemic index, but it is not so easy for them to eat, because after feeling full, a new wave of hunger soon sets in due to the high sugar content. This also happens due to the conditions of transportation and artificial ripening of the product. Part of the complex carbohydrates, due to ripening conditions, turns into sugars with a high glycemic index.

For weight loss

Even if there are banana diets, the yellow "fruit" is not the best tool for losing weight. It is clearly contraindicated in protein, low-carbohydrate and other rigid diets. One fruit contains approximately 40% of the daily carbohydrate intake.

If you care about the state of your figure, it is better to eat bananas in the morning, at which time they will be better absorbed. Remember that natural, living food in the form of bananas is much healthier than your favorite chocolates and sweets.

If it is very difficult for you to give up sweets, then replace them with bananas. Do not drive yourself into a very rigid framework, after strict diets the body experiences very strong stress and then gains even more mass, plus breakdowns are not ruled out.

bananas for diabetics

People with diabetes should add exotic fruits to their diet with caution. Diabetics should not completely abandon the "fruit" should only limit its amount. Moreover, it is useful for the work of the heart muscle and has many positive properties.

Experts advise eating "fruit" separately from other foods, without drinking plenty of water. It is best to drink a glass of water half an hour before eating a treat.

You can also prepare a delicious smoothie by adding lemon, apples or kiwi to the delicacy. Diabetics are offered to eat boiled bananas, they are boiled right in the peel.

Carefully approach the choice of bananas, do not eat unripe fruits, starch is difficult to excrete from the body. Replace chocolate and other artificial sweets with natural ones and be healthy!

banana peel

The peel of the "fruit" is no less useful than he himself, although it is more often used for external use. Let's check out its usefulness:

To dry the peel, cut off the hard part from it. Dry the skin not in the sun and not in the oven, it should lie in a dark, but well-ventilated area. If the peel turned out black and even dark, it can not be used. Therefore, do not use the skin from overripe fruits.

dried bananas

Dried fruits have the same benefits as fresh ones, but the calorie content of dried fruits increases by about 3 times. This suggests that for people who are losing weight, dry bananas are contraindicated. But for those who are engaged in mental activity, they are simply indispensable in order to "freeze the worm."

Dried bananas are easy to make at home. Peel them and cut each part into 4, put on a baking sheet and put in the oven for 5 hours at a temperature of 40 degrees. Small fruits can be put on a baking sheet without cutting.

When drying is completed, put the dried fruits in a bag, you can store it for about a year. Dried fruits can be eaten directly from the bag, can be added to homemade dishes. Have you ever tried banana compote?

For breakfast

In order for the day to pass positively and productively, it is imperative to have breakfast, and breakfast should be nutritious and rich. Banana, like any other fruit, should be eaten in the morning, so you can get the most out of it. It will help improve concentration and cheer up, and this is so important in the morning.

Add bananas to your diet in the morning at least a couple of times a week. You can make smoothies, smoothies, add them to cereals, or make delicious dishes out of them and other fruits.

banana recipes

Recipe #1

Most often, desserts and pastries are made from bananas, and this is understandable, because it is sweet. I want to tell you about a drink that promotes fast falling asleep and sound sleep.

To prepare it, we need a banana with cinnamon. Boil a liter of water, and then add one chopped banana to it, it should boil for 10 minutes. Then strain the broth and add cinnamon to it to taste. Take the resulting drink one hour before bedtime.

Recipe #2

I want to offer an interesting and hearty salad with bananas and chicken.

Ingredients:

  • chicken breast - 1 pc.,
  • apple - 1 pc.,
  • banana - 1 pc.,
  • hard cheese - 100 gr.,
  • salt, mayonnaise, pepper - to taste.

Boil the breast and cool a little, and then disassemble it into pieces. Grate the cheese and apple on a coarse grater, and cut the banana into rings. Then combine all the ingredients, add salt, black pepper mayonnaise to taste. The original salad is ready, bon appetit!

How to choose

Choose real and healthy banana it’s not difficult in the store, although they don’t grow with us:

  1. Pay attention to the shape, the useful fruit is not ribbed, but streamlined.
  2. The banana skin should be matte and smooth.
  3. The ideal color of edible berries is a yellow, greenish tint indicating that the fruit is not ripe, and black indicates an overripe product.
  4. If you find black dots, this indicates the maximum ripeness of the product and the maximum sugar content. Such fruits cannot be stored.
  5. Black spots indicate improper storage conditions, rotting. It is better to refuse such a product.
  6. Gray color indicates that the product is frozen.
  7. Bananas without GMOs and chemicals have a natural taste, otherwise it resembles straw.

If you bought greenish fruits, let them ripen. It is better not to store bananas in the refrigerator, leave them in a cool, dark place. You can also freeze fruits.

To do this, clean them and freeze on a baking sheet whole or chopped. You can store frozen bananas for 3-4 months in a plastic bag in the freezer.

Video - interesting facts about bananas

So, today we talked about bananas, the benefits and harms in different areas are obvious to you. Now you know how to choose them, store them and how they work. Use this knowledge to the fullest and be healthy. Good luck and see you in the next blog post. Leave comments, subscribe to updates and our group, as well as share with friends on social networks.

The useful properties of this product can be judged in two ways. On the one hand, they have a lot of sugar, which in itself is not very good, we have already described, and on the other hand, they have no less important nutrients. The health benefits and harms of bananas are a fairly relevant topic, as with other foods that a person eats. So where is the truth?

Are bananas healthy? This is the question I get asked most often, so let me talk about the pros and cons of this popular health product for both men and women.

Bananas are a rich source of essential vitamins and minerals, including potassium, magnesium, fiber, and more. Vitamins also amaze with their abundance: A, C, E, K, B6 and that's not all. It is an ideal food for athletes and all those who train regularly because of their carbohydrate content, which is quickly digested and provides an instant energy boost.

It is a quick source of pre-workout energy, as well as post-workout macro- and micronutrients necessary for muscle recovery and fluid balance in the body. In addition, bananas contain fiber, which makes you feel full longer.

Sounds good, and it's all contained in one fruit, which has only 100 calories. However, bananas are not for everyone.

They quickly raise blood sugar levels, contain a lot of carbohydrates, little protein or healthy fats. This is a whole problem for people with insulin resistance, including those with diabetes and prediabetes. Therefore, bananas are good for most people, but not for everyone.

For all those who lead a healthy and active lifestyle, they must be present in the diet.

So who shouldn't eat bananas? If you have insulin sensitivity, blood sugar problems, and are overweight, then it's best not to eat them at all.

nutritional value

Now, after we have briefly considered the benefits and harms of bananas for the body, let's focus specifically on positive side this fruit.

So, why do we need bananas in the human diet? The nutritional value of the product per 100 grams and in one piece will tell us about this.

Bio chemical composition this product is extremely versatile. One medium banana contains approximately (recommended) daily allowance):

  • 110 calories;
  • 0.5 grams of fat;
  • 27 grams of carbohydrates;
  • 14 grams of sugar;
  • 3 grams of fiber;
  • 1 gram of protein;
  • 25% vitamin B6;
  • 16% manganese;
  • 14% vitamin C;
  • 12% potassium;
  • 12% fiber;
  • 10% copper;
  • 10% biotin;
  • 8% magnesium.

As we can see from this picture, the chemical composition of bananas is quite extensive, they are rich in micro and macro elements that are important for the health of the body.

Human Health Benefits

Beneficial features can be listed for a long time, but we will focus on the 6 most significant benefits of bananas for the human body.

1. Give a boost of energy

Bananas are a great snack because they provide the body with carbohydrates in the form of quickly digestible sugars that the body can use for energy. After a workout, your body will use these carbohydrates to replenish energy stores and restore muscle fibers.

After a workout, sugar molecules from bananas are able to quickly reach muscle tissue, and exactly at the moment when it is needed. This helps to quickly restore glucose stores, which are needed to generate the energy needed to build muscle and develop strength. The benefits of a banana for people involved in any physical activity, is undeniable. They can and should be eaten both before and after training in order to supply the male body with a sufficient amount of carbohydrates and nutrients.

Instead of eating candy bars and drinking sports drinks, eat bananas - only 100 calories, contain no processed or artificial ingredients, do not take up much space in your backpack or bag, are whole foods, great for pre- and post-workout snacks.

2. Contain a lot of potassium

Bananas are one of the richest sources of potassium in the world. About 500 mg. Potassium is found in one banana. Potassium is necessary not only for athletes, but for all people in general. It is an electrolyte that ensures proper blood circulation, maintains an optimal level of fluids in the body and helps oxygen reach the cells.

Potassium prevents an increase blood pressure and reduces the risk of developing diseases of the cardiovascular system and the occurrence of strokes, because it controls blood circulation, sodium and water levels in the body. To supply your body with the necessary amount of sodium, you need to eat plenty of whole foods, especially vegetables and fruits, including bananas.

The benefits of bananas for both men and women are obvious, as the potassium in them prevents muscle cramps after workouts and helps to restore and build muscle mass. This makes it an essential nutrient for active people and those recovering from injury.

3. Improves the functioning of the digestive system

Bananas contribute to fast and trouble-free digestion. One banana contains about 3 grams of fiber, which is about 10% of the daily value. Fiber prevents constipation, bloating and other unwanted gastrointestinal symptoms. It restores the intestines and supports its functioning, helps to remove waste and toxins from the body.

Fiber fibers are digested slowly, so a person stays full longer. That is why bananas are a great snack to eat on the go and convenient to carry around. Studies have proven that a diet high in fiber is a natural defense against heart disease, cardiac arrest and stroke.

It reduces inflammation in the body, as it removes all the waste from it and prevents the accumulation of plaque in the arteries. Bananas are easy to digest and can prevent diarrhea. This is due to fiber fibers, which attract waste to themselves in gastrointestinal tract, while potassium retains fluid in the intestines, preventing dehydration.

4. Cheer up

It would seem, how can a banana be useful for our mood ?! And here's what: they contain the amino acid tryptophan, which helps regulate serotonin, one of the main "happiness hormones" of a person. Normal serotonin levels keep you in a good mood and prevent various mood swings such as irritability and depression. Bananas contain antioxidants that aid in the release of dopamine in the brain, another mood-boosting hormone. Therefore, you need to eat bananas every day to be in a good mood, prevent fatigue and increase energy reserves.

5. Contain manganese, useful for the brain, skin, bones

Bananas are good for the brain, skin and bones only because they contain manganese (16% of the recommended daily value) and vitamin C (14% of the daily value), which is needed for collagen production to look fresh and young.

Manganese is involved in various functions of the male and female body: Supports skin health, skeletal strength, brain function and reduces free radical damage.

Research data show that manganese helps prevent epilepsy and Parkinson's disease. Animal studies have shown that dietary manganese deficiency reduces bone strength, which can lead to osteoporosis.

Manganese is good for skin health. It helps to produce collagen, a very important structural component that maintains youthfulness and elasticity of the skin. Manganese has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that slow down aging, reduce damage to human health caused by free radicals and oxidative stress.

6. Convenient and low-calorie snack at an affordable price

One medium banana contains 100-110 calories. Unlike other processed and high-calorie snacks, these are a great snack option because they are high in fiber and nutrients. It will also be useful for those who count their calories and are trying to lose weight.

Because bananas are high in fiber and high in water, they keep you feeling full for longer, helping to manage hunger between meals. Lovers of sweet food and those who want to lose weight will like this fruit.

Bananas, unlike berries, for example, do not need to be frozen, washed, or cooked. You can carry them with you all day long.

Take them with you to work gym, and have a few bananas in the car in case you get hungry and to reduce the chance of overeating when you do get to eat. It is a cheap product, and even organically grown varieties can be afforded by everyone.

If your priority is to lose weight, then I recommend eating bananas in moderation. The sugar content of bananas affects blood glucose levels, potentially leading to a craving for food.

If you decide to snack on bananas, then add a source of healthy fat or protein to them to slow down the release of sugar into the bloodstream. It can be almond butter, coconut or protein powder, which will make the snack more satisfying and will not allow glucose levels to rise sharply.

Flaws

Although bananas have many health benefits, they are not for everyone.

Anyone who is watching their weight or blood sugar should not eat a lot of bananas.

Compared to berries, citrus fruits, and kiwis, bananas are high in sugar and low in fiber. And fiber is needed in order to slow down the absorption of sugar into the bloodstream. The ideal would be to eat something that has a lot of sugar and carbohydrates and no less fiber, because there will be no sharp spikes and drops in blood sugar levels in the blood.

Berries are the perfect example of this combination of fiber and sugar; they have less sugar than fruits, but are high in healthy antioxidants and fiber. For this reason, I recommend that diabetics, people with metabolic syndrome or those who want to lose weight eat berries and fruits with low content sugar and high in fiber, such as green apples, kiwis and citrus fruits. They have a lower glycemic index than bananas, so they have a beneficial effect on blood glucose levels.

Studies show that unripe fruits have a lower glycemic index and sugar is absorbed more slowly. So if you want to keep your blood sugar at a stable level, then choose green bananas. They contain more resistant starches, which the body digests more slowly.

If the choice is between packaged, processed, and full of artificial ingredients and bananas, choose the latter, even if you're trying to lose weight or have blood sugar issues.

Ripe bananas are lower in carbs than most grains such as oatmeal, rice, and cereals. Compared to grains, choosing bananas will still consume fewer carbs, sugars, and calories, and more nutrients.

Origin story

Based on some sources, bananas were originally grown in parts of Southeast Asia and Papua New Guinea in 5000 BC. After that, they were grown in some regions of Africa and Madagascar. In the 9th-10th c. bananas reached the countries of the Middle East and North Africa including areas of Egypt and Palestine. They were even mentioned in ancient Islamic texts.

When travelers from the countries of the Middle East and Europe visited Central and South America, they brought bananas with them, presenting the fruit to another part of the Earth's population. Portuguese travelers were the first to bring bananas to these regions, where they are still eaten in large quantities to this day.

Bananas took root in the tropics of South and Central America, where they began to be grown in large quantities, and their popularity reached North America. Today, these fruits are grown in large quantities in Brazil, Ecuador and Colombia. However, India, Uganda and China are the largest banana exporting countries worldwide. The wild varieties originally had large seeds inside. The bananas we eat now are parthenocarpic fruits, which means they ripen and grow without the need for seed pollination. Today's bananas have smaller flesh with small seeds inside.

What bananas to buy and how to cook them?

Cavendish is the most common and best-selling type of banana on the market. Most people, when buying them, do not pay attention to the difference between the species. Bananas are a staple food among millions of people living in the developing countries of Latin America, Africa, India and the South Pacific Ocean.

They are an important crop because they grow all year round and are inexpensive. They can be prepared in various ways, depending on the characteristics of the national cuisine; they are usually fried, boiled, baked, mashed, sliced, and then dried. Dried bananas are effective method storage. Chips made from them are a great addition to granola, which will energize you after a workout or during a lunchtime snack.

Of course, it is best to make your own dried bananas, because most banana chips in stores are dried by frying in various oils. Which means you won't get the full benefit of the fruit from these chips. Therefore, check the labels on the packages and be sure to pay attention to the method of drying banana chips.

Bananas are considered to contain the least amount of pesticides than any other fruit. This is because their peel is very thick, and practically impervious to chemicals and toxins, which are treated with all crops.

Plus, bananas grow high enough in trees where they are not accessible to rodents, animals, and beetles, so they are less likely to be sprayed with herbicides and pesticides.

banana recipes

Bananas are pretty versatile in recipes. They are often used in place of sugar in recipes to make food healthier. Banana is the main ingredient in most smoothies and shakes. It can be eaten fresh, or with nut butter, added to muffins, pancakes and buns. They are useful in every way. Try eating more bananas by including these simple and healthy meals to your meal plan.

Banana Bread Gluten Free

This gluten and grain free banana bread recipe is a great snack. It is full of healthy fats, fiber and smells delicious. Be sure to try this classic and share your opinion!

Cooking time: 55 minutes

Servings: 6-8

INGREDIENTS:

  • 4 eggs;
  • 3 medium bananas, mashed;
  • 1/4 cup honey;
  • 1 tbsp vanilla extract;
  • 2 tsp soda;
  • 2 1/4 cups almond flour;
  • 1/2 tsp sea ​​salt;
  • 1/2 tsp cinnamon.

COOKING:

  1. Preheat oven to 175 degrees.
  2. In a bowl, mix eggs, bananas, honey, coconut milk and vanilla.
  3. In another bowl, mix other ingredients.

Combine ingredients from two bowls together and stir well. Grease a baking dish and pour in the mixture. Bake 35-50 minutes.

Chocolate banana smoothie with almond butter

This smoothie is delicious and healthy! It's great for breakfast and the kids will love it. Try it today!

Cooking time: 2 minutes.

Servings: 1.

INGREDIENTS:

  • 1 glass of coconut milk;
  • 1/3 cup almond oil;
  • 1 banana, peeled;
  • 2 tbsp cocoa powder;
  • 2 glasses of ice cubes;
  • stevia for flavor.

PREPARATION: Place all ingredients in a blender and blend until desired consistency. Serve immediately.

Banana coconut pancakes

Coconut is one of the healthiest foods you can ever eat. He contains fatty acid a medium chain that is easily digested and converted into energy rather than being stored as fat. That is why coconuts help to lose weight, stimulate metabolism and have an excellent antibacterial effect. Combined with a banana, you get great flavor and tons of nutrients in one dish. Try these delicious pancakes and experience all its benefits today!

Cooking time: 10 minutes.

Servings: 2.

INGREDIENTS:

  • 3 eggs;
  • 1/4 cup coconut flour;
  • 1/2 banana;
  • 1 tbsp honey;
  • 1/4 cup coconut milk;
  • 1/4 cup of water.

COOKING:

  1. Mix all ingredients in a bowl until smooth;
  2. Heat a frying pan, add butter or coconut oil;
  3. Fry the pancakes for 2-5 minutes on each side over medium heat until golden brown.

Statistics say that today bananas are among the most common food crops on our planet. Edible fruits of cultivated species of the genus Musa (Banana) have long ceased to be exotic, despite the fact that they are not cultivated in our latitudes.

Not everyone knows that from a botanical point of view, a banana is a multi-seeded and thick-skinned berry, although for most of us it is more common to perceive the fruit as a fruit. The fruits of cultivated banana species do not have seeds, since they do not participate in vegetative propagation.

Many national cuisines of the world can boast of unique recipes for dishes with the addition of bananas. Berries are used in the preparation of confectionery, desserts, salads, ice cream, cold and hot snacks. They are added to the first and second courses and pastries, boiled and fried (with and without peel), dried and dried, canned and banana flour is made, wines, jams, syrups and marmalade are prepared.

But the most common way to eat bananas is fresh. High content healthy sugars allows you to quickly satisfy your hunger in any situation and activate the vitality of the body, and a banana will saturate the cells with healing phytonutrients.

The popularity of bananas is due to the undoubted taste, nutritional value and benefits for the body of most inhabitants. the globe. Let's take a closer look at what kind of fruit this is - a banana? The health benefits and harms of this unique exotic for women and men lie in the biochemical composition.

Almost all vitamins are present in banana pulp, including carotenoids (provitamin A), B vitamins (B1, B5, B6, B12), ascorbic acid, tocopherols, PP, K.

The fruits are rich in macro- and microelements (potassium, iron, phosphorus, selenium, zinc, magnesium, sulfur, iodine, manganese, boron, copper, etc.), vegetable fiber, pectins, ash, organic acids, fructose and glucose, nitrogenous compounds, enzymes, flavonoids, antioxidants, catecholamines.

The calorie content of the product varies depending on the degree of maturity (from 65.5 to 111 kcal per 100 g). The berries contain a large amount of carbohydrates (20 g / 100 g), protein compounds (1.5 g / 100 g). There is also a small amount of healthy fats in bananas (about 0.3 g / 100 g).

But berries have gained particular popularity among children, men and women, due to the high concentration of amino acids: tryptophan, lysine, methionine. It is tryptophan that is synthesized in the body into serotonin, which is responsible for creating a positive emotional background in a person and is aptly called the "hormone of happiness and joy" by the people.

Useful properties of bananas

The fruits have:

  • hypotensive,
  • sedative
  • harmonizing,
  • restorative,
  • antiseptic,
  • astringent,
  • tonic,
  • immunomodulatory,
  • antioxidant,
  • rejuvenating,
  • hematopoietic,
  • anticholesterol,
  • regenerating,
  • restorative effects on the human body.

The use of bananas for treatment!

Regular consumption of bananas, rich in beneficial minerals and biologically active compounds, is beneficial for anemia. The iron present in fruits activates the production of hemoglobin in the body.

Berries can also help with high blood pressure. A high concentration of potassium helps to reduce pressure, get rid of edema and timely removal of fluid.

Banana is also indispensable for depressive states. Increasing the level of serotonin in the body eliminates bouts of irritability, relieves neurosis, panic attacks, bad mood and bad thoughts.

Gastroenterologists advise eating bananas for heartburn. It turns out that the amino acid tryptophan activates the processes of digestion. Since the pulp effectively neutralizes the increase in the acidity of gastric juice, bananas are useful for peptic ulcers.

Biologically active components of the fruit qualitatively improve the functioning of the heart muscle. That is why bananas are actively used in the prevention of myocardial infarction.

Everyone involved in intellectual work, as well as schoolchildren and students, especially during periods of mental overload, nutritionists recommend including sweet-tender banana pulp in the diet.

Pectin compounds and dietary fiber of bananas help cleanse the intestines from fecal blockages and accumulated metabolites, which undoubtedly has a positive effect on the state of the immune and digestive systems and general well-being.

The inclusion of fruits in the diet of all ladies helps to reduce the manifestations of premenstrual syndrome (PMS) and eliminates menopausal disorders. And bananas are useful during the period of gestation and breastfeeding babies.

The B vitamins present in the composition are involved in the formation of cells of the nervous system and saturate the body of the mother and child with many valuable elements. Many mothers note that enriching the diet with bananas improves the quality of sleep and has a beneficial effect on the general condition of the body.

According to many women, the use of ripe berries improves the condition of the skin and their appendages (hair and nails). Also, the pulp is actively used in home cosmetology for the preparation of nourishing, restorative, regenerating, smoothing wrinkles and rejuvenating face masks, especially in combination with vegetable oils (,) and pure ethers (, patchouli, muscatel, lavender, geranium, jasmine, rose).

  • All oils you can find in.

Benefits of Bananas for Men

First of all, all athletes should pay attention to bananas. Only 1-2 fruits help in recuperation after a strenuous workout.

And berries are valued for the proteins they contain. Eating bananas helps build muscle mass, while neutralizing the excess accumulated lactic acid that provokes muscle pain, which is especially true for all bodybuilders.

Experienced aromatherapists claim that banana is the most powerful aphrodisiac for men. Its aroma and taste contribute to an increase in male strength, having a beneficial effect on erectile functions and potency.

Harm of bananas, contraindications

Like all plant and animal foods, berries have some contraindications. Despite the hypoallergenicity of fruits, bananas should be carefully included in the diet of young children under one year old, carefully observing how the children's body reacts to this species complementary foods.

The following diseases are considered contraindications to the use of bananas: thrombophlebitis, coronary artery disease, diabetes mellitus, obesity. A high hypoglycemic index and the presence of a large amount of easily digestible sugars can lead to spikes in blood glucose and contribute to weight gain.

Blood-clotting compounds in bananas can cause problems in all patients with a predisposition to.

On an empty stomach, bananas are not recommended for people suffering from flatulence (increased gas formation). Long-digesting pulp provokes the accumulation of gases in the intestines and prevents the timely outflow of bile. For the same reason, fruits should not be washed down with water, milk, coffee or tea.

  • Since the product helps to lower blood pressure, hypotensive berries should be consumed moderately and with caution,

Do not overly lean on the fruits, it is enough to eat 1-2 pieces per day. Remember that overeating bananas can cause allergies and become a threat to a slim body.

The year-round availability of fruits and their relatively low price allows each of us to systematically enjoy nutritious berries. After a detailed study of the topic “Bananas: benefits and harms to the body”, you will be able to determine how much you need this product in your daily menu. Stay healthy and enjoy your banana meals!

Bananas are one of the most affordable exotic fruits today. It is quite difficult to find a person who has not enjoyed this yummy at least once. And the relatively low price for this fruit makes it affordable for every person who wants it.

Children especially love this delicacy. And how good it is to realize that your child eats not only a tasty fruit, but also useful for his body.

Banana is a high energy food. It quickly increases blood sugar levels, as a result, a person is full of energy and can easily cope with both physical and mental stress. In addition, the sunny fruit does not cause allergies and can be safely given to children in the first year of life.

Banana is a real storehouse of many vitamins:

  • vitamin C. Ascorbic acid perfectly protects the body from many adverse environmental factors;
  • B vitamins. It is no secret that the lack of useful substances from this group in the body leads to hair loss, premature aging, causes irritability and nervousness in a person;
  • vitamin E. In other words, the vitamin of youth, thanks to which, women can keep their beauty and freshness for a long time.

But this is not the whole list of useful substances. Banana is very rich in:

  • carotene,
  • iron,
  • calcium,
  • phosphorus and more.

It is worth noting that a banana is especially useful for people suffering from diseases of the cardiovascular system and high blood pressure.

If one fruit is consumed daily, then the body's need for medicines, will become noticeably lower, while the patient's condition will improve much. And this is scientifically proven, which is why many doctors recommend consuming several fruits daily.

For people suffering from depression, banana will be the first emergency aid. And all thanks to the fact that the sunny fruit helps the body produce serotonin, the hubbub of joy. After all, it is this hormone that is lacking in a depressive state.

What diseases can be used

As described above, bananas are very useful for many diseases:

  • inflammation of the oral mucosa;
  • gastritis;
  • stomach ulcer;
  • liver disease.

And if you use baked bananas in the form of warm mashed potatoes, then there will be no trace of coughing.

Important: Banana is an effective aphrodisiac for both men and women. And if there are some problems in this area, it is worth trying to eat this fruit. As a rule, the result will not be long in coming.

Effective banana cough remedy


Recipe #1. To prepare a useful mass, you will need 1 banana, 1 cup boiling water and 0.5 teaspoons of honey.

Mash the peeled banana until pureed. Then add honey and boiling water, mix everything well and let it brew for an hour.

This mixture is taken in half a glass every two hours. As a rule, already after the first day, the patient feels a noticeable relief.

Recipe #2. And in order to prepare such a healing agent, it is necessary to use the banana peel 1 pc. milk 1 liter and honey 1 teaspoon.

Boil the milk, add the peel, previously finely chopped and boil in milk for about 15 minutes. Then, strain the prepared mixture to make a decoction of milk without peel, add honey to it and mix well. Let it brew for a couple of hours and you can use it.

I use milk broth in the same way as in the first recipe. It must be stored in the refrigerator, and warmed up in a water bath before use.

Recipe #3. And another very effective way to get rid of a nasty cough. Peeled banana 1 pc. and cocoa powder 1 teaspoon, hot milk 1 cup.

Mash the banana to a mushy state, add cocoa and mix everything to get a homogeneous mass. Then add milk and mix again.

The resulting mixture is consumed hot, with a spoon. Basically, relief comes after the first application.

Bananas for women


Due to the enormous amount contained in the banana, vitamins and minerals. Sunny fruit helps to strengthen and maintain women's health:

  • acts as an excellent protective agent for stress;
  • relieves pain, upon the onset of special days;
  • improves hair condition and increases female libido;
  • perfectly replaces lunch snacks, while positively affecting the female body.

If a woman replaces lunch sandwiches with a banana, she can get rid of extra calories and not worry about the possible manifestation of gastritis from snacking on the go.

Benefits for pregnant women

Bananas are especially useful for pregnant women. They are very nutritious and beneficial. The group of vitamins contained in this fruit helps expectant mothers to maintain the body in a healthy state.

It is very useful to consume bananas in the first trimester of pregnancy, for the proper growth of the child. Since a banana is a chest with a huge treasure of useful substances.

Quite often, expectant mothers may experience constipation, in which case it is enough to consume one fruit to get rid of this delicate problem. But do not get carried away with this fruit, because it is very high-calorie. In moderation, a banana brings many benefits, and if consumed in large quantities, you can safely gain a few extra pounds.

And perhaps the most important feature of a banana, is an increase in lactation in nursing mothers. If there are problems with the production of breast milk, it is enough for a young mother to eat a couple of fruits a day, and lactation will increase noticeably in just a couple of days. At the same time, you don't have to worry about side effects for a small child. A banana is an absolutely harmless fruit, and for the crumbs it will only bring benefits.


For men

Many men, using such a valuable product as a banana, do not even suspect how useful it is for male body. Regular consumption of a banana improves sperm quality, increases fertility and increases male sexual performance.

But not only this sunny fruit is famous. Banana has a positive effect on the brain, increasing its efficiency. And the presence of a large amount of iron, at times increases the level of hemoglobin.

For kids

There are parents who are wondering if it is ok to give bananas to children. It's no secret that this fruit is exotic, so moms take doubts. Almost all pediatricians recommend bananas for baby food.

These fruits do not cause an allergic reaction in children. They are well absorbed in the body, and most importantly, such a fruit can replace one full meal, since they are soft and high-calorie.

When buying a banana, you need to choose only ripe fruits and you should not abuse such a delicacy. As for the first complementary food in the form of a banana, they begin to give it from the age of eight months, in small portions, gradually increasing the volume. In general, for children under five years old, no more than two pieces a day are recommended. Banana is a good substitute for harmful sweets, which is very beneficial for the child's body.


The use of banana for beauty

Banana, due to its rich composition, is very useful not only for the body, but also for the skin. Many cosmetic preparations are created on the basis of solar fruit. But women do not lag behind manufacturers, they successfully use it to create "live" masks, for facial care at home.

Banana is a universal fruit that has no contraindications for use, and home-made masks based on it are suitable for any skin type. After using this product, the skin becomes soft and silky.

Wrinkle mask

In order to make such a miracle mask, you will need one peeled banana, honey 3 tsp and cream 3 tbsp. spoons.

Grind the banana until smooth, add cream and honey, mix everything well. Then, apply the prepared mass on the face for 20 minutes. Remove better with a cotton swab dipped in mineral water. The mask is done a couple of times a week in the winter.

An effective facial scrub

One banana and 3 teaspoons of candied honey. Everything is mixed until a homogeneous mass. The finished mixture is applied to the face for 15 minutes. Then, wash off with warm water.

Such a scrub can be done on the face a couple of times a month, all year round.


Mask for dry skin

And to make dry skin radiant, you need one peeled banana and 1 tbsp. a spoonful of sour cream.

Banana is pounded to a homogeneous mass and mixed with sour cream. The resulting mass is applied to the skin for 20 minutes. Then, rinse with water at room temperature. This mixture can be applied to the face a couple of times a week, with the onset of cold weather.

This mask will not only cope with the problem of dry skin, but also noticeably rejuvenate and restore elasticity.

Mask for dry and irritated skin

This will require 1 teaspoon of fatty cottage cheese, banana and camphor oil, and one yolk. Everything is well mixed until a homogeneous slurry. Then it is applied in a thick layer on the skin of the face and neck, after 20 minutes the mixture is washed off with warm water.

This procedure is performed a couple of times a week with the onset of cold weather.

dried bananas

To date, in retail you can buy not only fresh fruits, but also dried bananas. The most asked question is how useful such bananas are, whether they can be eaten and whether they will harm health.

In the manufacture of dried bananas, no chemical additives are used, thanks to this, the fruits are completely natural. And most importantly, dried bananas fully retain all their beneficial properties.


Harm and contraindications

Banana is very tasty and useful product. But use in in large numbers, this fruit is still not worth it. Banana is one of the most high-calorie fruits. With most diets, eating bananas is not recommended. Although there is a claim that moderate consumption of this fruit leads to weight loss.

In some people, this fruit can cause bloating or other symptoms such as indigestion. In addition, people who have increased blood clotting are strictly prohibited from using bananas. The thing is that this fruit has the ability to increase blood viscosity.

Extremely carefully, bananas should also be eaten by those people who have been diagnosed with diabetes mellitus or have had a stroke or heart attack.

There is an opinion that banana lovers are more likely to be bitten by mosquitoes. Like it or not, scientists have not yet established =)

How to choose

How to choose the right bananas so that they are ripe and tasty.

  1. Before buying, you need to inspect his tail. In a ripe and good fruit, this part will be slightly green and without signs of rot or mold.
  2. Well, that part of the banana, where the tasty pulp is located, should be without dark dents and damage. If such defects are present, this means that the fruit has been hit, and when opened, dark-colored flesh will be found.
  3. In the case when the banana is elastic, but there are small dark spots on it, it does not mean that it is spoiled. This is a sign of an overripe fruit, such a banana can be bought without fear that the purchase will not be of high quality.

Video about the benefits of bananas

Banana is an amazing fruit, very healthy and tasty. It can be safely called a "charging battery" for a person, because after its use, performance increases significantly and appears good mood. Bananas should be consumed daily, especially for women. If they want to keep their beauty and youth. Eat bananas and get better every day!