Take a look at the health benefits of bananas, such as lowering the risks of cancer and asthma, lowering blood pressure, and improving heart health. Today, bananas are growning in at least 107 countries and are ranked fourth among the world’s food crops in monetary value. Americans consume more bananas than apples and oranges combined.
Bananas are naturally free of fat, cholesterol and sodium making them an excellent snack choice but who knew they could help with asthma? A study conducted by the Imperial College of London found that children who ate just one banana per day had a 34% less chance of developing asthma.
High fiber intakes from fruits and vegetables like bananas have also been associated with a lowered risk of colorectal cancer. Consuming bananas, oranges and orange juice in the first two years of life may reduce the risk of developing childhood leukemia. As a good source of vitamin C, bananas can help combat the formation of free radicals known to cause cancer. Eating a variety of colors can help your body create complex compounds to fight against complex diseases like cancer. Studies have even shown that type 1 diabetics who consume high-fiber diets have lower blood glucose levels and type 2 diabetics may have improved blood sugar, lipids and insulin levels. One medium banana provides about 3 grams of fiber.
Bananas also contain tryptophan, an amino acid that studies suggest plays a role in preserving memory and boosting your mood. High potassium intakes are also associated with a reduced risk of stroke, protection against loss of muscle mass, preservation of bone mineral density and reduction in the formation of kidney stones. The list of reasons to choose bananas is endless. Because of their ability to thrive in so many different places bananas are relatively inexpensive not to mention they are available year round, and due to their tough skins, they are not treated with pesticides and are not being genetically modified. So whats stopping you from eating this super fruit? Pick some up for the whole family and share the good news of all they can do!
Written by Charlie Marquez
As published by The Empire State Tribune
