Banana – a Superfood?

11. Nov, 2008 Comments Off

On the outside a banana may look like a simple fruit, but inside are a multitude of extra reasons to eat this delicious fruit.

Almost everyone has heard the old adage, “An Apple A Day Keeps the Doctor Away”. However, bananas may have apples beat on the health front. They contain four times more protein, twice the carbohydrates, fives times the amount of iron and twice other vitamins and minerals than apples do.

Bananas are high in iron. Iron is used by our bodies to make a protein in our blood called hemoglobin which transports oxygen to our organs and tissues.

Bananas are also high in potassium. Potassium is helpful in maintaining normal blood and heart function. It also can combat calcium loss and help our bones stay healthy. It also help to regulate the body’s water balance.

Bananas are high in fiber. In addition to keeping us regular, fiber helps prevent heart disease, lowers blood cholesterol levels and helps us lose weight.

Bananas are high in vitamin B6. Vitamin B6 helps regulate our nervous systems. Deficiencies in B6 can cause headaches, flaky skin, fatigue and memory loss.

Bananas can also be used to help sooth stomach, prevent PMS symptoms, cure hangovers and help fight the effects of stress.