Are banana peels good for the body? Bananas: benefits and harms to the body, varieties, storage conditions and delicious baking options. Benefits of dried bananas

Bananas are not only delicious food, but also extremely healthy, although quite high-calorie. 100 g of fresh bananas contain about 200 kcal, and in dried fruits this figure reaches almost 300. However, the high calorie content of bananas is not a reason to exclude them from the menu. Indeed, these yellow palm gifts contain a whole range of various vitamins: ascorbic acid, B vitamins, vitamin PP, as well as carotene, enzymes and various trace elements. Banana is a valuable source of potassium and fiber.

Bananas are native to Southeast Asia. Interestingly, from a botanical point of view, a banana is a berry. Bananas are an ancient food crop and are eaten all over the world. The fruits are eaten fresh and are also used to prepare various dishes. Bananas are fried, boiled, baked, canned, made into flour, syrups, wines, marmalade, consumed with or without peel. It is noteworthy that in Ecuador these fruits are the main source of nutrition for the population. In just one year, each Ecuadorian consumes about 73 kg of bananas, while in Burundi this figure reaches 189.4 kg. It turns out that bananas grow in Russia too. You can meet them in the Sochi region. However, they do not reach such maturity that they can be eaten.

Scientists have calculated that a person who eats 4 bananas a day covers 100% of the body's need for potassium and magnesium. But it's not a secret for anyone that these two trace elements are necessary for the normal functioning of the heart muscle.

Recent scientific evidence proves that bananas are fruits that need to be consumed for and normalize vision. It is very useful to eat bananas for people in the recovery period after an illness. Unlike many food products, bananas are allowed for patients with various pathologies of the digestive tract.

The pulp of bananas has a delicate structure, so they are allowed for children to eat. Fruits can be included in the child's menu already in the first year of life. It is recommended to start introducing such complementary foods into the diet of infants starting from 10-12 months. Bananas have a soft texture and sweet taste, so all kids eat them with pleasure.

What are the general benefits of bananas for the body?

The benefits of bananas for the body are very high.

There are many reasons why bananas should be eaten regularly, including:

These fruits are natural antidepressants. After eating them, the body begins to produce serotonin. It's no secret that this hormone is otherwise called the hormone of happiness. Therefore, bananas are useful to eat daily for people prone to stress.

Banana promotes rapid satiety, so it can be safely used as a tasty and healthy snack between main meals.

Bananas contribute to the speedy removal of alcohol decay products from the body. Therefore, they can be consumed after the feast and during the holidays.

Bananas saturate the body with potassium, vitamins B and C. All these substances have a positive effect on the functioning of the cardiovascular system.

The pulp of bananas contains substances that can improve memory and increase efficiency.

Bananas have a lot of fiber, but it is soft and does not irritate the mucous membrane of the stomach and intestines. Therefore, bananas can be consumed even with diseases of the digestive system, for example, with gastritis.

Bananas contain a beneficial amino acid called tryptophan. It works like a natural sleeping pill. Therefore, bananas should be eaten by people prone to.

Bananas are good for diarrhea. These fruits contain a large number of potassium, due to which the replenishment of electrolyte reserves occurs. At the same time, the pulp of the fruit will not irritate the already inflamed intestines, and pectin fibers quickly absorb moisture, which helps to reduce the processes of seething in the intestines. Moreover, a banana is the only fruit that doctors allow to eat with.

Bananas are good for people with. The fruits contain substances that contribute to the destruction of bacteria that provoke ulceration of the mucous membrane of the digestive organs. In addition, the fruit stimulates the production of mucus, which is necessary in order to envelop the ulcer.

Banana is a product that quickly replenishes energy losses. Therefore, the fruits must be consumed by people engaged in heavy physical labor.

Bananas are an excellent remedy for constipation. They contribute to the gentle cleansing of the intestines due to the high content of pectin, fiber and dietary fiber. Together, these substances increase intestinal motility, but do it gently and imperceptibly.

Bananas should be included in your diet for people with and.

Bananas act as natural probiotics, as they create a breeding ground in the gut for beneficial bacteria to thrive.

Bananas help to balance the hormonal levels, which is especially important for women during PMS.

With the help of bananas, you can increase the level of hemoglobin in the blood, as this fruit contains an impressive amount of iron.

Bananas, due to their unique composition, can strengthen the overall immunity of the body.

It is useful to eat them for people with, as these fruits normalize the water-salt balance in the body, simultaneously saturating it with potassium and magnesium. Therefore, the inclusion of bananas in the menu is an excellent prevention of a hypertensive crisis and other diseases that occur at the peak of increased blood pressure.

Bananas are great helpers in the fight against smoking. Recent research suggests that incorporating bananas into your daily diet can help you overcome the “addiction barrier” faster.

The benefits of bananas for men primarily consist in increasing potency, because it is not without reason that this fruit resembles the male genital organ in shape. Regular consumption of bananas in food allows you to make an erection longer and more resistant. This is especially true for older men who want to maintain an excellent sexual shape.

Bananas also affect the quality of sperm. Thanks to their use, the number of spermatozoa increases, they become more active and mobile, which means that the chances of successful fertilization increase. Therefore, men planning to have a baby should regularly include bananas in their diet. In addition, bananas have a positive effect on male libido, as they act as a natural aphrodisiac.

In order for the use of bananas to have a good effect on male potency, the fruits must be chosen correctly. It is necessary to give preference to those fruits that have a rich yellow color and intact skin. Black spots on a banana are a sign of its ripeness, but these spots should not be large and occupy the entire surface of the fruit. Mold is a sign of spoilage of the fruit, eating such bananas is dangerous to health. The smaller the fruit, the sweeter it is.

A banana for a man is a valuable food product that must be present in his diet. Moreover, the fruits are useful both fresh and in various dishes.

Video: what happens if you eat bananas every day?

Bananas are very useful for pregnant women. Eating these fruits stimulates the production of oxytocin. This hormone contributes to the normal course of pregnancy, and also enhances the production of breast milk.

In addition, bananas are a real storehouse of vitamins and microelements, so with their help you can saturate the body of a pregnant woman and a developing child with useful substances. You can use bananas to reduce the severity of toxicosis, as they normalize digestion and muffle the feeling of nausea. Bananas rarely provoke allergic reactions, which is very important for women in position.

Without exception, all women should consume bananas during menstruation, as they can ease muscle spasms. This fruit will be useful for women engaged in heavy mental and physical labor. You can include fruits in your diet to lift your mood and to get rid of depression.

Since bananas contribute to rapid satiety, they can be eaten even by those of the fairer sex who are on a diet and trying to lose weight. But at the same time, it is necessary to observe the measure.

What are the benefits of dried bananas?

Dried bananas are no less beneficial to human health than fresh bananas, however, the calorie content of such products is higher. 100 g of dried bananas contains about 346 kcal. Therefore, the use of the product must be abandoned to people with overweight. It is not recommended to include dried bananas in the menu of diabetics.

You can offer dried bananas to children as an alternative to chocolate and sweets. This dessert is sure to please the child to taste and also benefit the body. After all, the vitamins and minerals contained in fresh bananas from dried fruits do not go anywhere.

Dried bananas are an excellent source of potassium. Their use in food allows you to normalize the condition of the heart and blood vessels. Fruits are useful for nails, hair, skin. Dried bananas are a source of energy and strength. With their help, you can get rid of depression and improve your mood. Dried bananas very rarely provoke allergic reactions.

It is useful to eat dried fruits from bananas for people prone to anemia. This product can be included in the menu for diseases of the digestive tract. The fruits contain a lot of ascorbic acid, which is an assistant to the body in the fight against infectious diseases.

For people involved in active sports or hard physical labor, dried bananas will quickly replenish energy reserves. Their use in food helps to normalize blood pressure.

Cooks actively use dried bananas in various dishes. Fruits are added to cereals, they decorate cakes, pastries and other sweets.

Bananas are easy to dry at home. For this purpose, you will need to purchase ripe fruits, wash them, peel them and cut into thin slices. Then the bananas are laid out on a baking sheet, previously covered with parchment, and sent to the oven. The drying temperature should be around 50 °C, but no more. Cooking time for bananas is 3 hours. The oven door should be left ajar to allow air to flow in and allow the temperature to be adjusted.

After the required time has elapsed, the bananas are cooled and placed in glass jars for storage. Such fruits can be eaten in their pure form, and can be added to various dishes.

Do boiled bananas retain their beneficial properties?

Bananas are eaten not only fresh, but also subjected to heat treatment, for example, cooking. After fruit exposure high temperatures they become sweeter, but some of the vitamins are lost. Dietary fiber, fiber, pectin are preserved in boiled bananas, which makes it possible to normalize the functioning of the gastrointestinal tract. In addition, boiled bananas are a source of energy.

In a very limited amount, people with diabetes can eat boiled bananas so as not to provoke a jump in insulin in the body.

Are green bananas healthy?

Green bananas are not unripe fruits, but special varieties, the so-called "plants" or "plantains". Before eating, such bananas must be exposed to high temperatures - fried or boiled. They can be cooked in sugar syrup, stewed and blanched. After heat treatment green bananas are better digested.

Small green bananas are considered to be the most beneficial for the body. This variety is called "vegetable". Such fruits allow you to regulate the level of blood pressure, are a means for the prevention of hypertension and atherosclerosis.

In green bananas, the content of potassium is increased, which protects the nervous and cardiovascular systems from external damage. Eating green bananas is good for the musculoskeletal system, as they do not interfere with the excretion of calcium from the body. Green fruits can be eaten against the background of stomach ulcers, constipation and diarrhea.

How can banana peels be useful?

Banana peel can be beneficial for human health. It contains the same vitamins and minerals as in the fruit itself, but the peel is an absolutely non-caloric product. It contains carotenoids and polyphenols, which can speed up metabolic processes in the body. It also contains serotonin to improve mood and lutein for.

However, many banana vendors treat the skins with various chemicals that can harm the human body in order to prevent bananas from spoiling. Therefore, before using the banana peel, it must be processed with high quality.

You can use the peel as follows:

Prepare a decoction of banana peel. It must be placed for 10 minutes in boiling water, then remove the broth from the heat and cool. The peel must be discarded, and the resulting broth can be added to any juices, compotes or smoothies. This will make your favorite drinks more fortified.

The peel can be used to whiten tooth enamel. To this end, after each brushing of the teeth, it is necessary to wipe their surface with the soft side of the banana peel. This will get rid of stains on the enamel of the teeth, and will also make it possible to reduce the harm from the use of toothpaste, which contains various chemical compounds. In addition, the peel contains minerals that will be beneficial for the teeth.

You can use the peel of a ripe banana to improve the condition of the skin of the face. For this purpose, you need to gently massage your face with a peel, rubbing the soft contents into the skin. It is useful to perform such a massage 1 time in 3-4 days. Banana peel will act as a soft peeling, gradually whitening the skin of the face, evening out its tone, smoothing fine wrinkles.

Banana peels can be used to get rid of warts. To do this, you just need to wipe the growth with the soft side of the peel every day before going to bed.

The fruit acids, minerals and vitamins contained in the banana peel help to eliminate minor inflammations on the skin. To do this, simply wipe the problem area with the soft side of the peel. This method can be used to reduce itching and inflammation from the bites of various insects: mosquitoes, wasps or bees. In the same way, you can relieve skin irritation after shaving.

If you put a banana peel on the bottom of the pan, and then fry the meat on it, this will make it soft and juicy. In addition, the product will not burn or deteriorate. Naturally, before using the peel, it must be washed well.

Why is it useful to eat a banana with milk and kefir?

You can often hear information that bananas should not be combined with dairy products, in particular, with milk and kefir. In fact, such a combination can really provoke bloating, indigestion and fermentation processes in the intestines, especially if a person already has diseases of the gastrointestinal tract.

However, there is a diet that is based on a combination of milk and bananas. People who follow it are recommended to eat 1 banana 3 times a day with a glass of milk. This will cleanse the body and saturate it with useful trace elements contained in the banana.

Do not stick to such a diet for a long time. At the same time, milk should not be too fat, it is recommended to use a product with a fat content of 1.5%. In parallel, it is necessary to drink plenty of water, which will prevent dehydration of the body. Amount drunk per day pure water must be at least 2 liters. It should be understood that such a diet is extremely extreme and in a short time allows you to get rid of several kilograms of weight.

Video: is it possible to squeeze juice from bananas?

What will be useful cottage cheese with a banana?

The combination of cottage cheese and bananas is often recommended to be included in the diet when following various diets. Thanks to these products, you can replenish the reserves of carbohydrates, vitamins and minerals in the body. In addition, after eating cottage cheese with bananas, the feeling of hunger does not come for a long time. For example, there is a diet, following which during the day you need to eat only 200 g of fat-free cottage cheese and 2 bananas.

To prepare a healthy dish, you need to mash a banana with a fork, and rub the cottage cheese through a sieve. The resulting ingredients should be mixed, divided into portions and eaten throughout the day. Such a diet will allow you to quickly get rid of a few kilograms, as well as saturate the body with useful substances. Eating cottage cheese with a banana throughout the day, a person will not experience hunger, if the interval between food breaks is observed at 2-3 hours.

Bananas can not only benefit, but also harm.

There are certain diseases in which bananas should not be consumed, among them:

Thrombophlebitis.

Increased blood viscosity.

People with bananas should not get too carried away, as these fruits have a rather high sugar content.

Although bananas very rarely provoke allergic reactions, allergy sufferers should also not consume them in very large quantities. In addition, despite all their advantages, it remains quite high. Therefore, overweight people need to observe the measure in the consumption of these fruits.

You should not eat unripe fruits, as they have an increased content of starch, which is difficult for the digestive system to process. As a result, a person will experience symptoms of bloating, he will intensify the processes of fermentation and gas formation in the intestines. Therefore, if unripe fruits were purchased, you need to wait for them to ripen. Over time, the starch will turn into sugar.

As a rule, fruits lying on the shelves of stores are treated with chemicals. For this purpose, phenols E230, E231 and E232 can be used. They are used to keep food fresh for as long as possible. When ingested in high doses, these chemicals can cause various diseases, including cancer. Therefore, all fruits must be thoroughly washed before they are eaten.

Do not offer this product to very young children. Some doctors recommend refraining from introducing a banana to a child's diet for up to a year. This recommendation is based on the fact that eating a banana can cause bloating, upset stools and diarrhea. Banana is an overseas fruit, which means that if the child’s digestive system is imperfect, it can provoke allergic reactions. Moreover, the banana contains a high content of vitamin K. Its excess in the body of a child can lead to the development of hemolytic anemia and jaundice.

In many ways, the harm that bananas can cause depends on the way the fruit is stored and transported. All bananas are imported to Russia unripe, and they become ripe already in warehouses. To do this, they are fumigated with ethylene. This gas allows fruits to ripen faster, become softer and sweeter. The bananas are then treated with chemicals containing phenol. This makes it possible to increase the shelf life of already yellowed fruits. For the human body, phenol is extremely toxic, even its slight ingestion can provoke the development of cancer. Therefore, before you start peeling a banana, it must be thoroughly washed.

Bananas should not be consumed by people suffering from irritable bowel syndrome. These fruits can further enhance unpleasant symptoms. Doctors do not allow bananas to be eaten by patients who have had heart attacks, patients with thrombophlebitis. This is due to the fact that bananas contribute to increased blood viscosity.

Unripe bananas are harmful even to healthy people. They contain a lot of starch in their composition, have an unpleasant taste and smell. Such bananas will irritate the intestines and harm digestion.

How to choose bananas and how many can you eat?

To choose bananas that will bring the maximum benefit to the body, you need to pay attention to the following signs and characteristics of the fetus:

The shape of the banana should be streamlined.

The peel should be smooth and matte.

The color of the banana should be yellow. Green bananas are unripe, which means they are dangerous to eat. Such fruits should ripen, for which you can leave them in a warm place for several days.

The peel of bananas may be covered with black dots, which indicate the ripeness of the fruit. However, you need to eat such bananas as quickly as possible.

Large black spots on bananas are a sign of rot. Such fruits should not be bought.

If the banana peel has turned gray, it means that the fruit has been frozen. Gray bananas are not edible.

Don't get too carried away with bananas. A healthy person without obesity should not consume more than 2 fruits per day. As for diabetics, the possibility of eating bananas should be discussed with the doctor.

Video: what is the difference between bananas for 35 rubles and for 2000 rubles?

Education: Diploma of the Russian State Medical University N. I. Pirogov, specialty "Medicine" (2004). Residency at the Moscow State University of Medicine and Dentistry, diploma in Endocrinology (2006).

Surprisingly, bananas are categorized as berries. They grow on a tall shrub whose leaves fit snugly together. Bananas can be attributed to fruits, but this is partly wrong. They are eaten raw, after removing the peel or mashed from them. The benefits and harms of bananas for the human body due to their chemical composition. Let us consider in more detail the main properties and applications of these fruits.

Chemical composition

Bananas are nutritious and energetically valuable. A quarter ripe pulp consists of carbohydrates and sugars, and it also contains:

• starch;
• protein;
• pectin;
• cellulose;
• macro and microelements;
• various vitamins;
• an essential oil that gives the banana a special flavor.

The composition contains natural monosaccharides:

• fructose;
• sucrose;
• glucose.

The product is indispensable baby food, thanks to:

• vitamins;
• organic acids;
• dietary fiber.

A large amount of potassium and magnesium in bananas has a positive effect on the functioning of the heart, brain and muscles. In order to meet the body's needs for these substances, you need to consume only 2 bananas per day.

The fruits contain:

• various vitamins: A, E, K, C, PP, group B (B1, B2, B6, B5, B9);
• trace elements: magnesium, phosphorus, iron, potassium, calcium, sodium, zinc;
• beta carotene;
• choline;
• cellulose;
• amino acids;
• carbohydrates, fats, proteins;
• Apple acid.

The energy value

Depending on the ripeness of the banana, its calorie content also differs.

• green fruits include 88 kcal;
• ripe bananas are more high in calories - 119-121 kcal;
• if the fruit is overripe, then its calorie content will be 178 Kcal.

Benefits of Bananas

The rich vitamin and mineral composition of the berry provides maximum benefits for the human body. He helps:

• strengthen immunity, protect against various infectious and cold diseases, maintain health;
• reduce the level of cholesterol in the blood, activate the production of hemoglobin, speed up metabolic processes, due to the presence of B vitamins;
• get rid of depression, improve mood, thanks to vitamin B6 (pyridoxine), which accelerates the synthesis of serotonin, the "happiness hormone". Therefore, bananas are considered an excellent mood booster to get rid of depression;
• improve the state of the nervous system, attention and memory, increase efficiency, improve the condition of the skin and hair;
• easily digestible monosaccharides (fructose and glucose) provide an energy boost. They help to support the body during physical and intellectual stress, contribute to the activation of physical activity. Due to these properties, bananas are often consumed by professional athletes, students and schoolchildren;
• restore the functioning of the heart muscle and nervous system, stabilize blood pressure, reduce the risk of strokes and heart attacks, thanks to potassium in the composition;
• to keep blood vessels in good shape, improve blood circulation and eliminate excessive blood viscosity, magnesium will help to avoid blood clots;
• iron helps to prevent the development of anemia;
• vitamins C and E will help to preserve beauty and youth, improve the condition of hair and skin, stop the aging process. They also have antioxidant properties, block the synthesis of free radicals and reduce the risk of developing oncological tumors;
• reduce blood pressure, normalize the work of the digestive system, relieve constipation;
• cope with irritation, apathy and fatigue, improve appetite and mood;

• fight various helminths when using the peel;
• cope with insomnia, thanks to the amino acid tryptophan, which has the properties of a natural sleeping pill. In combination with B vitamins, it will help produce the hormones of joy - endorphin and serotonin.

D for women

1. Bananas are used to improve the condition of the skin, hair and nails. The pulp is widely used in cosmetology, often combined with vegetable oils to prepare anti-aging, nourishing, restorative, regenerating and wrinkle-smoothing masks.
2. The berry relieves spasms and pain during PMS and menstruation, restores the lack of hemoglobin, which decreases in the body during critical days.
3. The sweet fruit helps relieve stress and irritation, and is used to lift mood and treat depression.
4. Banana helps to satisfy a strong feeling of hunger, which is important for women on a diet.

D for men

1. Men are more prone to heart and vascular diseases, and regular consumption of bananas reduces the risk of developing cardiovascular diseases, stroke and heart attack, and also prevents the formation of blood clots.
2. Regular consumption of yellow berries will help men improve the quality and speed of sperm, resulting in an increased chance of conceiving a child.
3. Tryptophan in the composition of bananas improves potency and has a positive effect on the functioning of the genital organs.
4. To maintain physical activity and restore the body after training, athletes need to consume at least 3 bananas per day.
5. Protein helps build muscle mass and neutralize lactic acid, which causes muscle pain.

During pregnancy

When losing weight

1. At strict diets the body often does not receive the required amount of sugar, which often causes fatigue. It is the banana that will help fight this problem, since it chemical composition completely balanced and the body feels the lack of valuable elements.
2. Fiber, amino acids and vitamins in the composition help to remove toxins from the body, fight constipation and normalize digestion, reduce the level bad cholesterol in blood.
3. Thanks to the use of a banana, the metabolism is accelerated, as a result of which fatty plaques break down faster, which contributes to weight loss.
4. A banana can quickly satisfy the feeling of hunger and keep you satiated for a long time.
5. Although the fruits have a fairly large number of calories, they have many useful properties, which fully compensates for the calorie content. This means that 150 g of bananas will be enough for complete saturation, and as many as 300-400 g of other fruits will be required.
6. At physical activity, which often accompany diets, calories are spent very quickly, the body is depleted and tired. Eating bananas will help restore strength and build muscle mass.

Watch the video! The benefits and harms of bananas

green bananas

small green bananas are considered the most useful for the body and are called "vegetable". Their benefits are:

• prevention of diseases of hypertension and atherosclerosis, normalization of pressure;
• green fruits have a higher potassium content, so it has a positive effect on the nervous and vascular systems, protecting against external damage;
• green bananas do not interfere with the release of calcium, therefore, they have a positive effect on the functioning of the musculoskeletal system;
• can be taken for constipation, diarrhea and stomach ulcers.

Dried fruits

dried bananas also have great benefits for the body, but they have a higher calorie content than fresh fruits. 100 g of dried bananas contains about 346 kcal. Therefore, their use should be limited to those who suffer from overweight and diabetes.

daily rate

With all the variety of useful properties, you should not get too carried away with the use of bananas. Recommended rate for healthy person per day - 2 fruits.

The harm of bananas

1. There are certain contraindications for eating bananas. They should not be eaten with:
   • diabetes mellitus;
   • increased blood viscosity;
   • thrombophlebitis;
   • obesity
   • ischemic disease.
2. Although bananas rarely cause allergies, they should not be overused.
3. High calorie content can provoke weight gain, so women are advised to consume 2 fruits per day, and a man - 3.
4. Unripe fruits in their composition have a lot of starch, which complicates the digestion of food, so they should not be consumed in excess.
5. In rare cases, green bananas can cause constipation, bloating, and gas. Therefore, the norm of unripe fruits per day is 1 pc, so as not to harm health.
6. Before transportation, bananas are often treated with pesticides, most often E230-232. These phenols allow you to store fresh norm of unripe fruits for a long time, but because of these additives, cancer cells can appear in the body. Before eating, it is recommended to thoroughly wash bananas with soda.
7. Children under one year are not recommended to introduce yellow fruits into the diet. They can cause colic, bloating, diarrhea, and upset stools.

Chocolate Banana Smoothie with milk and almond oil

A very tasty and healthy smoothie recipe that will appeal to both children and adults. He will fit for breakfast and a snack, as well as for recuperation.

It only takes 2 minutes to cook one serving.

For cooking you need:

• 1 glass of milk;
• 1/3 cup almond oil (optional)
• 1 peeled banana;
• 2 tbsp. l. cocoa;
• 2 glasses of ice cubes;
• stevia for sweetness.

Smoothies are easy to prepare: put all the ingredients in a blender and blend to the desired consistency, serve immediately.

Watch the video! About the benefits of bananas

Reading on one of the sites the heading " The harm of bananas“At first I was even taken aback. Well, what harm can be from these tasty and rich in vitamin-mineral tropical fruits? However, I soon realized: what surprised me, of course, was the lack of possible negative consequences when eating bananas, and the wording itself " harmful properties". Word " harm» is appropriate to use when describing the effects of alcohol, tobacco, in extreme cases, smoked, fried, sweet, salty or other unhealthy foods. It is hardly necessary to talk about the dangers of fresh fruits. Rather, here we are talking about the need for a sense of proportion in the use of any products and, perhaps, about rather rare cases of individual contraindications.

Why, after all, so many sites on the Internet tell no more and no less, how exactly about the “harm of bananas”? It's very simple: these titles are designed for search engines. Often users ask Yandex or Google simple and slightly clumsy questions like “The benefits and harms of bananas, apples”, etc. It is under these requests that unscrupulous authors of websites cook up articles about the supposedly harmful properties of fruits. Meanwhile, such formulations are very important - after all, they actually mislead people. The fact is that there is no harm from eating bananas and cannot be. At least, no unconditional harm arising a priori from any use of bananas. The most we can talk about here is the availability recommendations for reasonable and moderate consumption of any food. If you eat 10 kilograms of any food in one sitting, then it is quite possible to die. However, this will not mean that death occurred as a result of the harmful effects of this food. There is a beautiful phrase "In a spoon - medicine, in a cup - poison." It shows that much depends on the amount of food we consume. Kills and harms immoderation and monotony in nutrition rather than eating a particular food.

However, since we are talking about the myths and the truth about the dangers of bananas, we need to list some recommendations for their use with maximum health benefits. I will not talk about the dangers of bananas - I will only talk about some precautions in their use:

• It must be remembered that an excess of some substances contained in bananas is not good for the body (for example, potassium). Therefore, from these considerations, it is best to eat no more than two - a maximum of three fruits daily. This issue is discussed in more detail in the article "How many bananas can you eat per day".
• It should be taken into account that bananas are high in calories. Three bananas contain a quarter of a woman's daily calorie intake. Therefore, a large number of them in the diet is a danger to the figure. By the way, banana shakes (a mixture of bananas with ice cream and milk) for this reason are just a calorie bomb.
• Bananas are pretty heavy food, in the sense that they are absorbed in the body for a rather long time (about 4 hours). Therefore, it is undesirable to eat them at night.
• Like any other fresh fruit, bananas preferably consumed separately from other types of food. It is optimal to use these tropical fruits for breakfast or afternoon snack.
• People with allergies or diabetes should use bananas with caution. In these cases, any questions of catering are best agreed with your doctor.
• According to some reports, bananas increase blood viscosity. Therefore, they should be used with caution by those for whom this factor is important: people who have had a heart attack, stroke, as well as those suffering from thrombophlebitis or varicose veins. It is believed that for this reason, bananas in the diet can worsen erections in men (to be honest, I have never noticed such an effect on my own).
• Frequent and heavy consumption of bananas can cause excessive fermentation and a feeling of heaviness in the stomach. Not dangerous - but not pleasant.
• I will combine in the last paragraph and a couple of tips, in my opinion, more like myths. The first says that eating more than three bananas a day can cause a headache. But the second one claims that mosquitoes like to bite bananas more.

Finally, I will make a short and comprehensive conclusion:if you do not suffer from diseases such as diabetes, allergies, thrombophlebitis or varicose veins, have not recently suffered a heart attack or stroke, then you can feel free to eat two bananas every day. Most of these tropical fruits are not eaten even by the inhabitants of those countries where they grow.

Banana contains more fructose than glucose a lot of calories and no iron. Banana is a hearty sweet fruit, the perfect snack for kids and adults to take with you on a walk, to school or work - this is the obvious benefit of a banana for everyone. Why does a banana have such high calories?

The calorie content of a banana lies in the fact that there is practically no water in it, the feeling is as if you are eating a sandwich with butter. Skurikhin's reference book on the calorie content of a banana tells us: calories - 96 k / cal 6.7%, Carbohydrates - 21 g 16.% he took glucose as a standard, in a banana 15-21% fructose , she gives in 1 .8 times more calories;
- The low glycemic index of a banana is due to the presence in it of indigestible fibers, a large amount of pectin and inulin sugars (akin to glucose and fructose), which are not digested by the human body.

Beneficial features banana

The benefit of a banana is that when consumed, the body forms an alkaline pH, so bananas can be eaten with gastritis and ulcers;
- In addition, eating a banana brings a feeling of joy, and this is due to the content of serotonin in bananas - the hormone of joy, which is why it is good for children;
- Also in the banana there are substances that stimulate the intestinal mucosa and envelop the gastrointestinal tract, thus it is good to combine with sour fruits, berries: green gooseberries, currants;
-Calorie banana is 96 kcal per 100 g of product, it contains almost no fat (0.5 g) and even has a small amount of protein (1.5 g). Bananas also contain large amounts of vitamin C, choline, beta-carotene, and vitamin E - all of these substances have a beneficial effect on thought processes and memory improvement - which is the undoubted benefit of a banana for the body.
- Vitamins B3 are also well represented in a banana - it reduces the amount of "bad" cholesterol, it is necessary for tissue respiration), B5 contributes to the generation of "good" cholesterol, histamine and hemoglobin and B6 (it is necessary for the production of somatotropin hormone (growth hormone), serotonin is a hormone of joy, adrenaline (stress hormone)

Everything you need to know about bananaschoose, store and eat

There are different varieties of bananas, they differ in taste and appearance. It is better to choose green, unripe, smaller varieties of bananas, such as mini-bananas (due to their low sugar content).

Great health benefits of green bananas for everyone;

Do not store bananas in the refrigerator - they darken. Bananas should be stored in a dark room in a paper bag;
Bananas can be eaten fresh or added to salads.

In anticipation of the baby, every day of healthy eating is very important. This term implies the daily consumption of vegetables and fruits, including bananas, but expectant mothers need to eat them in moderation and at the same time take something into account. So, let's arm ourselves with useful information.
- A pregnant woman should receive 1000 mg of potassium daily, and one banana contains about 800 mg of potassium, which corresponds to 100 g of washed 3 mm peel raw potatoes(little starch).
Interesting. Do not forget the trace element potassium is found in all fresh vegetables and fruits and berries.
- Since bananas are high in calories, they are not recommended for women who are overweight or losing weight. Rather, they are suitable for very active ladies who sometimes need energy support. These fruits contain vitamins and microelements, due to the high fiber content, they are perfect for people with gastrointestinal problems (gastrointestinal tract).

The benefits of bananas for children

Many mothers are concerned about the question: at what age can a child be given a banana and will it be harmful to him?
- Every mother should know that after 3 months you need to accustom your child to fresh, salty and sweet foods, not forgetting about the main protein foods for complementary foods: cottage cheese, seafood and lean pork, lamb in the right doses, and your little fussy for the present and future the moment will be liked by everything.

Recipe. Banana with blackcurrant- alkaline health mixture. Also, a banana can be combined with other fruits and berries: melon, kiwi, avocado, etc.

- Banana peel contains B vitamins, provitamin A and vitamin C, acts as an antioxidant, that is, it attaches free electrons to itself, preventing them from adversely affecting the cells of the body;
- Trace elements per 100 g of product: phosphorus - 26 mg, magnesium - 32 mg, calcium - 6 mg, selenium - 1.2 mcg, iodine - 3 mcg, potassium, which helps blood pressure;
- A lot of coarse fiber, which is a brush for the intestines and absorbs water with toxic substances and cholesterol.
- Carotenoids contained in a banana significantly reduce the occurrence of heart and vascular diseases.
- The peel is rich in the amino acid tryptophan, a precursor of brain neurotransmitters, the hormone of joy and sleep.
How to use banana peel properly. Cut off with a knife blade inside peel one millimeter of pulp and immediately use it, that's where all the nutrients are contained

We spread it on a baking sheet, make a longitudinal incision, sprinkle the knife blade with ground cinnamon 1/6 teaspoon for 1 banana and for one person, put in a preheated oven 180 degrees for 20-30 minutes (slow fire);
- We take a banana as an independent dish without oil, since there are no fat soluble vitamins;
- Cinnamon enhances metabolism and prevents excess glucose from being deposited in the fat sacs of the body, thereby contributing to weight loss

Of course, baked bananas do not contain any vitamins, but they contain lycopene, which is necessary for the functioning of the intestines, absorbs toxins, excess cholesterol and removes from the body.

The benefits of bananas in sports
- Banana before training will maintain a stable level of sugar in the blood and charge the body with the necessary energy;
- After a workout, a banana allows you to replenish the body's needs for potassium - an important electrolyte for the functioning of muscles;
- Manganese plays a key role in metabolism, helping to “get” energy from foods. The use of a banana allows you to maintain the activity and performance of an athlete in training;
- Vitamin B6 plays a key role in the formation and proper functioning of the cells of the central nervous system, which contributes to the development of the brain-muscle connection

Cottage cheese with green banana (does not contain sugar)

Truths and myths about sports nutrition

Proper nutrition after training is just as important as proper nutrition before training;
- Do not forget to provide the body water and constantly drink during training, and after training, when the time comes to take carbohydrates and proteins, of course, do not drink;
- In the first 20-30 minutes. after training in the human body, the so-called "carbohydrate-protein window", in which the athlete simply needs to absorb foods containing proteins, carbohydrates, so that the muscles have something to use for growth, and most importantly, the body can cope with the processing of a dosed amount of food. It means at one time 100 g of cottage cheese and no more than 30 g of any bread, such an amount can also process the pancreas with its enzymes that break down proteins and carbohydrates at a time;
- It is better to start eating with foods containing carbohydrates - a banana 100-150 g, as they quickly leave the stomach within 7-10 minutes. We take a banana with any berries;
- After 5 - 10 minutes. we eat foods containing proteins that do not contain fat beef, chicken, lamb liver, cod, hake, fat-free cottage cheese 100-150 g;
Interesting. Complete nonsense to take more than 150 g at a time beef liver or cottage cheese, before and after training. This is due to the fact that the human pancreas (its weight is 80 kg) can process at a time with its enzymes that break down protein, no more than 15 g of protein mass (n. n protein),this is her maximum dose

Myths about bananas

There is an opinion that bananas cause tooth decay . This is not so, in fact, simple carbohydrates and sugars cause tooth decay, which long time stay on the surface of the teeth - this leads to the appearance of bacteria and the destruction of enamel. If bananas are naturally ripened (or you bought them green and ripened to a ripe yellow state), then the carbohydrates they contain have not broken down into simple sugars and they will not harm your teeth;
- Another myth is that bananas can make you fat . In reality, they gain weight from the uncontrolled consumption of foods containing carbohydrates: bakery products, fruits, berries. If you eat 1-2 bananas a day, they, thanks to pectin and resistant starch, create a feeling of satiety longer, therefore, by eating bananas you can lose weight;
- Another myth: nutritionists do not recommend giving bananas to children under the age of three in order to avoid an allergic reaction, due to the content in its composition of the enzyme chitinase. Allergies in infants or older arise from the uncontrolled consumption of foods containing carbohydrates: cereals, juices, fruits and berries. You just need to focus on the size of the pancreas of the mother and child at the moment when using carbohydrates;
On a note. The pancreas of a person weighing 60-80 kg processes 10-12 g of glucose at a time, which corresponds to 30 g of bread;
-Bananas are a panacea for many diseases. Banana is a useful, but still the most common fruit. It does not have supernatural effects on the body by itself and you should not believe in many of its healing properties. Don't obsess over it, eat a variety of fruits

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.

The biochemical composition of this product is extremely diverse. 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

Useful properties 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 to provide male body enough 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 high blood pressure and reduces the risk of heart disease and stroke because it controls 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 clear, as the potassium in them prevents muscle cramps after workouts and helps repair 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 symptoms from the gastrointestinal tract. 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. Research has shown that dietary high content 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 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, this is 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.

Since bananas are rich 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.

disadvantages

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 not less fiber, because there will be no sharp spikes and drops in blood sugar 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. 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 skin 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 most useful products which can only be eaten. 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.