From migraine to happiness – how does the fruit, which is one of the five most popular in the world, affect the body
The incredible popularity of bananas has provided them with a solid habitat (it is grown in 107 countries) and commercial value. It is the fourth best-selling fruit on the planet. It would be wise to learn a little more about its composition and nutritional properties. And decide – is it worth eating bananas every day?
BANANAS ARE A SOURCE OF POTASSIUM IN A DELICIOUS PACKAGE
Potassium is one of the most important nutrients that is used to generate electrical charge within cells for proper functioning. It triggers the release of insulin to control blood sugar and maintain optimal blood pressure.
Studies have shown that a high potassium intake of up to 20% reduces the risk of death from most diseases! Adults are recommended to consume 3500-4700 mg of this important nutrient per day, depending on lifestyle and other factors. The average banana contains about 450 mg, which is already solid. It turns out that to satisfy this norm from one source, you will need to eat about 7 or 8 bananas. But remember that excess potassium can be dangerous for people with kidney problems.
BANANAS MAKE US PHENOMENALLY HARDY
For decades, athletes and their mentors have believed that eating carbohydrates during long-term physical activity helps you train longer and at higher intensity, and recover faster. Carbohydrates nourish the muscles, reducing physiological stress and causing less inflammation. The most digestible and tolerable form of carbohydrates is sugar (whether glucose, fructose, or sucrose) provided by sports drinks.
But in 2012, researchers at Appalachian State University in Kannapolis started looking at fruit as a healthier alternative to sports drinks during exercise. Scientists have found that professional cyclists feel better during strenuous riding and immediately after if they eat half a standard banana every 30 minutes. (However, at the same time they led to bloating.)
BANANAS ARE UPLIFTING
Yes, this yellow fruit also has the ability to influence our sense of happiness. Bananas are an excellent source of the amino acid tryptophan, which the body converts to serotonin (a mood-enhancing neurotransmitter).
BANANAS SUPPORT OPTIMAL BLOOD PRESSURE
A common misconception is that sodium alone is responsible for lowering blood pressure. It is actually a delicate balance of sodium and potassium. It is estimated that less than 2% of all adults meet the recommended daily allowance of potassium, which means that the majority do not monitor pressure and do not maintain a critical balance.
BANANAS IMPROVE HEART HEALTH
Increasing potassium while reducing sodium is probably the most important prevention of cardiovascular disease.
One study found that people who take in at least 4,069 mg of potassium per day have a 49% lower risk of dying from coronary heart disease than those who consume less than 1,000 mg. By the way, avocados have a similar effect.
BANANAS SOOTHE THE INTESTINES
Doctors still recommend a diet of bananas, rice, applesauce, and toast for people with indigestion.
Bananas are not only relatively tasteless and easy to digest, but they also replace vital electrolytes in the body since most of them are lost during the gastrointestinal upset. The fiber content of bananas also contributes to a balanced bowel.
BANANAS CAUSE HEADACHES
It is believed that bananas can trigger migraines in people who are susceptible to headaches. In this case, it is worth sticking to the norm of half a banana daily.
Finally, some people have banana allergy symptoms such as itching, swelling, hives, or wheezing. In addition, it is worth considering that many other foods offer even higher levels of potassium than bananas (for example, tomatoes, watermelon, spinach, beets, black and white beans, salmon, pumpkin, and yogurt), but are much lower in calories.
