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
