BANANA. THE FRUIT THAT GIVES YOU ENERGY.

Even though the banana is now cultivated in different countries worldwide, it originated in Southeast Asia.

Multiple types of bananas exist and they can be eaten raw or cooked however, raw bananas should only be consumed when they are ripe.

Bananas are referred to as the fruit that gives energy because they are rich in carbohydrates, a chemical substance that gives energy to our bodies. Bananas also have a number of additional healthy properties that we will be exploring as part of this article.

POTASSIUM

In comparison to other fruits, bananas have very high levels of this mineral.

Potassium contributes to the regulation of blood pressure therefore, it is recommended to people that suffer from hypertension.

Potassium is also a mineral that intervenes in muscular and cardiac contractions.

Amongst other properties, it also plays an important part in the transmittance of nerve impulses.

MAGNESIUM

Magnesium contributes to the formation of teeth and bones and is another mineral that can be found within bananas. This mineral also intervenes in muscle contractions and in the transmission of nerve impulses alongside Potassium. It also participates in the regulation of another mineral called calcium.

FIBRE

Bananas are one of the most satiating types of fruits due to their high levels of fibre. The type of fibre found within them are named oligosaccharides, which are food for the good bacteria that lives in our colon. These bacteria contribute to the development of our immune system and prevent colon cancer.

This type of soluble fibre lowers the absorption of cholesterol and allows sugar to be absorbed much more slowly into the bloodstream.

FOLIC ACID OR VITAMIN B9

Another component that can be found in bananas is Folic acid.

Low levels of this vitamin are present within bananas however, it still contributes to the development of blood red cells and prevents spine bifida in newborns.

There are low levels of other vitamins found within bananas such as Vitamin C and pro Vitamin A, both key vitamins necessary for maintaining good eyesight and a good immune system.

VITAMIN B6

This vitamin contributes to the good functioning of the nervous system.

Bananas also have low levels of other vitamins and minerals.

Lastly, we want to highlight that ripe bananas are a good food to eat when treating diarrhoea. 

Bananas are also recommended for people to eat after they complete intense physical exercise in order to recover any energy that has been consumed.

A banana will also replenish any minerals, such as potassium or magnesium, which have been lost through sweat. This fruit will also prevent any cramps that could emerge in people that complete any intense physical exercise.

OBSERVATION

People that suffer from renal failure or that have high levels of potassium within their blood should always avoid bananas.

Dr J. Hurtado Martínez

Medical Director of HealthSalus