Bananas are originally from Malaysia. They were then brought to India around the 6th century. By 200 A.D., there were banana plantations set up in southern China. Here they were considered to be exotic fruits. It is said that when Alexander the Great visited India during his campaign in 327 A.D., he savoured bananas and took them to the western world.
This fruit comes in yellow, green, and red varieties and has been proven to have a number of medicinal benefits.
Bananas are a great food for all round health benefits, for the average person, dieter or even athletes bananas may provide greater benefits than most fruits. The combination of carbohydrates and B vitamins present in a banana helps provide an energy boost which makes them great to eat 30 minutes before a workout, or even at breakfast to help boost energy at the start of every day.
Bananas are not only a good source of B vitamins they also contain vitamin C, A and high levels of potassium. The natural fiber in bananas also contribute to the many health benefits listed below.
Health benefits of eating banana:
healthy bowels
cardiovascular health
protection from strokes
protection from ulcers
improve blood pressure
may boost mood
boost energy
help reduce water retention.
A Source of Potassium
Bananas are a natural source of potassium. Potassium is important for the human body as it helps keep the body fluids and electrolyte balance in body cells and helps in regulating blood pressure. Higher levels of potassium in the body can reduce the possibility of a stroke. The fact that bananas are high in potassium and low in salt makes them ideal for people who are suffering from blood pressure problems and have to watch their salt intake.
Research also states that potassium can help in improving a person's alertness. However, it should be noted that excessive quantities of potassium cause decreased heart muscle activity. A medium-size banana contains at least 450 mg of potassium
Vital Vitamins and Minerals
Bananas pack their share of vitamins. Large-size bananas have high amounts of vitamin A in them. Vitamin A is essential for the development of specialised tissue in the eyes. It is also important for the growth of the skin and soft skeletal tissue. Vitamin B is also present in the form of Thiamine, Riboflavin, Niacin, and Folic acid. These help in calming the nervous system. Bananas also have a small amount of Vitamin C in them.
Electrolytes
Bananas have their share of electrolytes too. Electrolytes are elements like magnesium, potassium, and calcium. They are important for maintaining the body's fluid level and preventing dehydration. So, bananas can form an important part of the diet .
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