As long as I can remember, I have always liked bananas. They’re ideal as a snack, mixed into yoghurt, or as an ingredient in baked goods. The rich, unmistakeable taste of banana is adored by people everywhere — and certainly at the root of the international fruit’s popularity. But not only do they taste amazing, bananas are a power fruit with exceptional health benefits. But what would happen if you were to eat two bananas every day? A lot of positive things, it turns out.
1. Works against depression
Studies have shown that the iconic arched, yellow fruit can help overcome depression, thanks to bananas high levels of the amino acid tryptophan, a substance that the body converts into serotonin. Serotonin is a neurotransmitter that is known as the body’s ‘pleasure hormone’.
2. Protects against hypertension
Bananas can help prevent high blood pressure and protect against strokes and heart attacks. While bananas do contain some sodium, they are very rich in potassium, which protects the heart and helps widen up the blood vessels, which allows for better circulation. Bananas contain no salt, another key factor for lowering blood pressure.
3. Prevents asthma
Children benefit from eating bananas, but it turns out this is not only for its huge array of practical vitamins. A study from the Imperial College of London revealed that children who ate a banana a day ran 34 percent less chance to suffer from asthma.
4. Good for blood
Bananas are a perfect complement for those who have iron deficiencies such as anemia. Your body needs iron to produce red blood cells and hemoglobin. In this way, eating bananas actually stimulates blood flow in your body.
5. Relieves PMS symptoms
Bananas contain high levels of vitamin B6 and according to some scientists can alleviate classic symptoms of PMS, such as mood swings. Research has shown that iron, also found in bananas, can have a positive impact in relieving PMS symptoms.
6. Good for the stomach
According to a study on ill children in Bangladesh, bananas can help relieve both constipation and diarrhea. The high fiber content in bananas helps improve digestion and bananas help to restore electrolyte levels, particularly potassium – very useful to alleviate cases of diarrhea.
7. Provides energy boosts
Athletes tend to often eat banana to replenish energy levels. Perhaps not surprising, with the fruit’s composition of natural sugars – sucrose, fructose and glucose combined with fiber. A banana gives an instant, sustained and substantial boost of energy. Research has shown that just 2 bananas provide enough energy for a strenuous 90-minute workout.
8. Increases brain capacity
The brain has its needs to function. Among other things, it requires glucose and potassium as fuel. Fresh fruit are rich in potassium and glucose. Additionally,a medium-sized banana contains 37 mg of magnesium, a mineral that helps keep the brain “fit”.
9. Relieves stress
Finally, no one likes the feeling of stress. Vitamin B is fundamental when it comes to the ability to withstand stress. And yes, you guessed it, bananas also contain this important vitamin.
Are any further reasons needed to grab a banana right now? Please share this list if you think others should also know just how amazing bananas truly are.
