How do bananas affect constipation. What role does banana ripeness play in digestion. Which foods commonly cause constipation. How can diet choices impact bowel regularity.

The Banana Ripeness Spectrum: Effects on Digestion

Bananas are a popular and nutritious fruit, but their impact on digestion can vary significantly depending on their ripeness. Let’s explore how different stages of banana ripeness affect the digestive system:

Green Bananas: Potential Constipation Culprits

Green, unripe bananas contain high levels of resistant starch and can potentially cause constipation. Why is this the case? The resistant starch in green bananas is difficult for the body to break down, leading to slower digestion and potentially causing constipation in some individuals.

Yellow Bananas: The Digestive Sweet Spot

As bananas ripen and turn yellow, their digestive impact changes dramatically. Yellow bananas contain more soluble fiber and are easier to digest. How do they benefit digestion? The soluble fiber in ripe bananas can help promote regular bowel movements and support overall digestive health.

Brown Bananas: Easy on the Digestive System

Brown, overripe bananas are the easiest for the body to digest. They contain the highest levels of antioxidants and natural sugars. Are brown bananas safe to eat? Absolutely! In fact, they’re perfect for use in baking and can be a great choice for those with sensitive digestive systems.

The Fiber Factor: Bananas’ Role in Digestive Health

Bananas are often praised for their fiber content, but how exactly does this impact digestion? A medium-sized banana contains approximately 3 grams of fiber, which can contribute significantly to daily fiber intake. Fiber is crucial for maintaining digestive health and regular bowel movements.

How does banana fiber benefit the gut? The soft texture of bananas, combined with their fiber content, makes them relatively easy to digest for most people. This characteristic makes bananas a popular choice for those recovering from stomach upset or looking for a gentle pre-bedtime snack.

Debunking Myths: Do Bananas Really Cause Constipation?

The belief that bananas cause constipation is a common misconception. In reality, the effect of bananas on digestion can vary depending on several factors. What determines whether bananas help or hinder digestion?

• Ripeness of the banana
• Individual digestive health
• Overall diet and fiber intake
• Hydration levels

For most people, ripe bananas are more likely to aid digestion rather than cause constipation. However, consuming large quantities of unripe bananas may lead to digestive discomfort in some individuals.

Beyond Bananas: Other Foods That May Cause Constipation

While the debate around bananas and constipation continues, it’s important to recognize that several other foods are more commonly associated with causing constipation. Which foods should you be cautious about if you’re prone to digestive issues?

1. Red meat: High in fat and low in fiber, potentially slowing digestion
2. Dairy products: Can be constipating for those with lactose intolerance
3. Processed foods: Often lack fiber and can disrupt digestive balance
4. Fried foods: High fat content can slow digestion
5. White rice and bread: Refined grains with low fiber content
6. Chocolate: High in fat and caffeine, which can affect bowel movements
7. Caffeine: Can lead to dehydration, potentially causing constipation

Dietary Strategies for Promoting Regular Bowel Movements

Maintaining regular bowel movements is crucial for overall health and well-being. How can you adjust your diet to promote digestive regularity?

• Increase fiber intake through fruits, vegetables, and whole grains
• Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water throughout the day
• Incorporate probiotic-rich foods like yogurt and kefir
• Limit consumption of processed and high-fat foods
• Consider adding natural laxatives like prunes or flaxseeds to your diet

Remember, everyone’s digestive system is unique. What works for one person may not work for another, so it’s important to pay attention to your body’s signals and adjust your diet accordingly.

The Role of Bananas in Special Diets and Health Conditions

Bananas can play different roles in various diets and for individuals with specific health conditions. How do bananas fit into special dietary needs?

Bananas and the BRAT Diet

The BRAT diet (Bananas, Rice, Applesauce, Toast) is often recommended for individuals recovering from gastrointestinal issues. Why are bananas included in this diet? Their easy digestibility and mild flavor make them a gentle option for sensitive stomachs.

Bananas for Athletes

Athletes often turn to bananas as a quick source of energy. How do bananas benefit athletic performance? Their high potassium content can help prevent muscle cramps, while their natural sugars provide a quick energy boost.

Bananas and Diabetes

For individuals with diabetes, bananas can be part of a healthy diet when consumed in moderation. How should diabetics approach banana consumption? It’s important to consider the fruit’s glycemic index and to balance it with other nutrient-dense foods.

Maximizing the Health Benefits of Bananas

To get the most out of bananas while avoiding potential digestive issues, consider the following tips:

• Choose ripe, yellow bananas for easier digestion
• Pair bananas with protein sources to balance blood sugar levels
• Incorporate bananas into smoothies for added nutrition and easier digestion
• Use overripe bananas in baking for a natural sweetener
• Consider freezing ripe bananas for later use in recipes

By understanding how bananas affect your body and making informed choices about when and how to consume them, you can enjoy their many health benefits while minimizing any potential digestive discomfort.

The Gut-Brain Connection: How Diet Impacts Overall Well-being

The relationship between diet and digestive health extends beyond just physical symptoms. How does gut health affect overall well-being? Recent research has highlighted the strong connection between gut health and mental health, often referred to as the gut-brain axis.

Maintaining a healthy digestive system through proper diet, including the consumption of fiber-rich foods like bananas, can potentially impact:

• Mood regulation
• Stress levels
• Cognitive function
• Immune system performance

By prioritizing digestive health through mindful eating habits, including the appropriate consumption of bananas and other nutritious foods, individuals may experience benefits that extend far beyond just regular bowel movements.

Personalizing Your Approach to Bananas and Digestive Health

Given the varied impacts bananas can have on different individuals, it’s crucial to adopt a personalized approach to incorporating them into your diet. How can you determine the best way to consume bananas for your digestive health?

1. Keep a food diary to track how different banana ripeness levels affect your digestion
2. Experiment with portion sizes to find your optimal intake
3. Consider your overall diet and how bananas fit into your nutritional needs
4. Pay attention to any changes in your bowel movements or digestive comfort
5. Consult with a healthcare professional or registered dietitian for personalized advice

Remember, while bananas can be a nutritious addition to most diets, they’re just one piece of the puzzle when it comes to maintaining digestive health. A balanced diet, regular exercise, adequate hydration, and stress management all play crucial roles in promoting overall well-being and digestive regularity.

Bananas and Constipation: Why Banana Color Matters

There’s one simple way to know if it’s time to back off on the bananas for a bit. And nope, it’s not having a freezer jam-packed with loaf upon loaf of banana bread or being that person who buys them by the boxful at Whole Foods. It’s actually what’s going on with your bowel movements… or lack thereof. Yep, buckle up. We’re going there.

Plenty of different types of food cause constipation. Some aren’t too surprising, like red meat and fried foods. But then there are the seemingly healthy staples that can cause issues in the bathroom too, and one of the prime culprits is the beloved banana. While bananas are packed with nutrients—like potassium, magnesium, and vitamin B6—Max Lugavere, the health and nutrition expert behind Genius Foods, says they can also have a major downside depending on which stage of ripeness you’re into.

What each stage of a banana’s lifestyle means for your body

1. Green

There are three parts of a banana’s life cycle: green, yellow, and brown. When they’re green—or unripe—they’re a great source of prebiotics. Unfortunately, because they contain the highest amount of hard-to-digest starch at the time, they can leave you very constipated.

2. Yellow

As the banana ripens and turns yellow, it’s sweeter, contains a higher amount of antioxidants, and digests more quickly. Yellow bananas also contain soluble fiber that supports your digestion instead of slowing it down, finally helping you poop (or simply stay consistent).

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3. Brown

So what about brown bananas? They’re easy to digest as well, meaning your banana bread obsession is totally A-okay. And extra bonus: They’re also at their sweetest and contain the highest antioxidant levels. When it comes down to it, you can still eat as much of the fruit as you want. But if you want to stay regular—and I know you know what I mean by regular—avoid the green guys at all costs.

Here’s our best healthy banana bread recipe:

One major gut-friendly benefit bananas bring: fiber

As long as your banana isn’t too green it can work in your digestion’s favor, but the reason why extends beyond color. One banana has about three grams of fiber, and fiber is directly linked to benefitting the gut. While not all fibruous foods are easy to digest, the fruit’s soft texture makes it relatively easy on the stomach. This makes it a good food pick for when you’re not feeling well or are looking for a pre-bedtime snack that your body won’t keep you up digesting later.

Bananas are definitely a gut-healthy food, but it’s important to consider the color of your fruit. Too green and it just might work against you. This is one case where yellow means go and green means slow down. And if that sucker is brown, save it for your banana bread—it’s still safe to eat.

Originally posted October 8, 2019. Updated October 23, 2020.

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Does Eating Banana Cause Or Relieve Constipation? Heres What Experts Say

Who wouldn’t love eating a banana? It’s an easy-to-grab and hassle-free fruit to gorge on when we are pressed for time, especially in the morning. Moreover, the humble fruit is lauded for its taste and numerous health benefits that it has to offer. According to the book, ‘Healing Foods’ by DK Publishing, bananas are extremely versatile. They are rich in potassium, which is essential for maintaining blood pressure, and are natural antacids, which makes them a soothing and healing choice for an upset stomach. While it may be the ‘perfect’ fruit for many, it has become the centre of much debate regarding constipation. Some people believe bananas cause constipation, while others swear by them to help relieve it. It’s a common notion that infants shouldn’t be fed with bananas as their weak digestive system may not be able to handle too much fibre, causing irritation in the tummy. Here’s what we found out.

(Also Read: 6 Best Fruits To Manage Constipation)

According to Macrobiotic Nutritionist and Health Coach, Shilpa Arora, “Bananas are loaded with fibre and nutrients that protect the gut lining. It’s the food for healthy bacteria in your gut. Fibre helps eliminate toxins from the colon, which helps with constipation. However, one needs to understand that bananas don’t cure constipation magically. It is important to avoid eating certain refined foods that are said to cause chronic constipation. Avoid biscuits, breads, and all other items made with refined flour and processed sugar.” As per the book ‘Healing Foods’, banana’s high fibre content helps bowel regularity and eases constipation.

(Also Read: 7 Ingenious Ways To Use Banana Peels) 

_{Bananas are loaded with fibre and nutrients that protect the gut lining}

According to Delhi-based dietitian, Ritu Arora, “Ripened bananas improve the bowel syndrome and let micro villi present in small intestine to function better; further helping in digestion and relieving constipation.”

(Also Read: 8 Effective Remedies For Constipation Suggested By Ayurveda)

Ripe Vs Unripe Bananas

Unripe bananas (green-coloured) may cause constipation as they have high levels of resistant starch, which can be hard for the body to digest; which is why picking yellow-coloured ripe bananas is always a better option. Green unripe bananas are generally said to help treat diarrhoea in infants. As the banana ripens, the amount of resistant starch reduces and is converted into sugars. Ripe bananas are relatively high in fibre content, which has long been claimed to prevent and ease constipation. Fibre tends to absorb water; helping stools to pass easily.

(Also Read: How To Ripen Bananas: 4 Simple And Handy Tips) 

_{Unripe bananas (green-coloured) may cause constipation as they have high levels of resistant starch}

Is Ripe Banana A Good Option For Infants?

According to Delhi-based Paediatrician, Dr. Deepak Bansal, “Breastfeeding should be continued till the age of six months as per WHO recommendations. After six months, weaning should be started gradually. Banana is an excellent weaning food, and can be safely started at six months of age. It has many advantages over other weaning foods or cereals. Banana is soft in texture, so it’s easier to mash. As it has a thick natural covering, therefore, the chances of contamination are negligible. Also, being rich in fibre, it helps keep stools normal. Banana can be softened further, if needed, by adding water, milk or curd. You should start with small amount initially – that is once or twice a day. It can be given with other cereals, only if the baby is not under the risk of food allergies. Some children may be allergic to bananas. In case, one is allergic to the fruit, s/he will show some symptoms of uneasiness after eating a bite. In such cases, you should consult your paediatrician.”

(Also Read: Have You Been Eating Banana With Milk? Read This) 

^{Banana is soft in texture, so it’s easier to mash.}

Ripe and unripe bananas are used for different purposes. Unripe bananas work best when someone’s suffering from diarrhoea; on the other hand, ripe bananas are best to relieve constipation. So, go for bananas and don’t hesitate to eat one every day! Also, remember to not over-do anything, as moderation is the key. Also, bananas have high amount of natural sugars, it is recommended that diabetics should consult their diabetologist before consuming them.

I started eating a banana every day on an empty stomach and lost weight!

Like it or hate it but you can’t ignore the benefits of eating a banana every day.

I belong to the group of people that believes banana cause weight gain. But, thankfully my partner put an end to my foolishness by pushing me to indulge in this power-packed superfood. And now there is no looking back because eating one banana everyday changed my life. 

But what’s so great about bananas?
I have always felt low on energy and used to crib about being exhausted even after a good night’s sleep. On top of that, I love snacking. I can eat anytime of the day, mostly because I am always hungry. As a  result, I end up over-eating.

When I told this to my partner, he insisted that I include at least one banana in my daily diet

You know what I said? I said: “Kuch bhi matlab! You know I’m on a diet. If I eat bananas, I’ll gain weight.” He just smiled and said that I must try it for a month. Reluctantly, I did. It’s been three months now and trust me I’ve never loved bananas so much before. 

A mushy banana shall is all you need to live healthily. GIF courtesy: GIPHY

Here’s what eating bananas did for me
Well, after my workouts I used to feel so lifeless that even a proper meal wouldn’t replenish my energy. But when I started eating bananas, that changed: 

1. Banana packed me with energy
Eating a banana after my workout keeps me charged up for almost half of my day.

To make me believe that all this is happening because of bananas, my partner showed me a study published in the journal PLOS ONE. Men! And yes the study suggests that banana is a powerhouse of energy.

2. It cleared my gut too
Although my bowel movements have never bothered me that much, but ever since the lockdown it’s been a little difficult for me to poop. Bananas changed that for me too.

No more constipation if you eat a banana every day. Image courtesy: Shutterstock

Ripe bananas have dietary fibre called pectin which draws water from the intestines towards the stool, thus making it easier for you to poop and relieve constipation.

3. I snack less now
I won’t lie and say that I have stopped snacking between meals completely. But yes the hunger doesn’t strike as often anymore. Plus, whenever I crave for a sugary treat, I snack on a banana.

4. It helped me lose weight
Since bananas have put a stop to my binge-eating sessions, weight loss had to happen. And it’s all because of the fibre in this wonder fruit.

5. Surprisingly, it also helped with soreness
When shortly after including bananas I started noticing less body pain post workouts, I became curious. So I did across research and stumbled upon a study published in The American Journal of Clinical Nutrition which says that the calcium in bananas helps in better absorption of it in the body.

No pain in your muscles and joints, thanks to bananas. Image Courtesy : Shutterstock

6. I don’t fall ill as often
Before banana, I would have given my immunity a 4 out of 10 but now I can proudly give it a 7. You know the moment I used to drink a glass of cold water my throat would go for a toss. This shows how weak my immunity was and right now the entire game is about keeping your immunity high.

But since my banana life, that’s slowly changing. I don’t fall ill as often and also feel stronger. And a study published in the International Journal of Biological Macromolecules also ratifies my experience.

Takeaway…
Although there are lots of claims about banana’s ability to keep anxiety away, I am yet to experience this miracle. 

But one thing is for sure that I have found my soulmate in a banana and we are going to stick to each other for like forever.

How to Help Your Constipated Toddler Go

Every mom has those mommy moments they’ll never forget. One of mine happens to be when my son got constipated for the very first time. He was an active toddler, enjoying all sorts of solid foods, one of which was cheese quesadillas. You can guess what happened next.

We were at home and he was cheerfully walking around. All of the sudden his giggling stopped and he cried out in pain. It was a loud, high-pitched scream. He stood still in discomfort and then when he took another step, he cried out again. My mommy instincts weren’t fine-tuned, so I thought he had somehow hurt his leg. It seemed like he cried out every time he put pressure on it.

Fast-forward to me making a frantic call to our pediatrician – on a Sunday, no less. After a quick chat on the phone, he asked me when was the last time my son had pooped. I thought about it and realized I didn’t know. Hmm, that’s weird. Then the pediatrician politely informed me that my son was probably constipated. A momentary relief until it quickly dawned on me that I had no idea how to help my son pass a hard, painful poop. Uh-oh.

What causes constipation

Most of us find out the hard way – no pun intended – that diet can quickly trigger constipation, especially in toddlers. Many foods toddlers love have a binding effect that can make stools hard to pass. Some of these foods include bananas, cheese, yogurt, ice cream and even veggies like cooked carrots and squash. The first thing you can do to help ease symptoms of constipation is to eliminate these foods from your baby’s diet.

Foods that ease constipation

First, make sure your little one is eating non-binding, low-fat foods that are high in fiber like potatoes, raspberries, whole-wheat pasta, avocado and pears. Because fiber is ingested, but not digested, it adds bulk to the stool that makes it pass through the digestive system more easily. And, of course, there’s always prune juice. At the first hint of constipation, we would give my boys organic prune juice/apple juice, which we jokingly called “crapple juice.” But, hey, it did the trick!

Keep ‘em hydrated

Drinking water sounds like an obvious need, but it’s especially important if your baby is constipated. The more hydrated baby’s body is, the better her organs function, including her intestines and bowels. Breast milk and formula help too, especially if you’re incorporating solid foods into her diet. The introduction of new foods to her sensitive system can trigger constipation and belly pain.

A potty problem

Sometimes toddlers who are potty training get constipated, because they just don’t want to do “number two” on the toilet. It’s actually a common problem. If they “hold it” for too long, things can get backed up. If you think that’s the case, try a different approach until the constipation resolves. Her bowels will let her know when she needs to go, so don’t force it. She should sit on the potty when she feels the urge, and get off the potty when the urge passes.

Pedia-Lax® for the poop

If you can’t ease constipation symptoms fast enough, try Pedia-Lax® products to move things along safely and gently. Pedia-Lax is designed for children, so it won’t further irritate an already un-comfy digestive system. From laxatives to stool softeners to suppositories, Pedia-Lax can remedy every type of constipation-related poop situation. As they say, things will be “toot-ally pooptastic” once again.

Ease it out…manually…

If your toddler is working on the go, but the stool is just too painful to pass, try petroleum jelly. A small amount can help lubricate sensitive skin and make the situation much more comfortable physically. If she doesn’t feel that painful “ouchy” sensation, she’ll relax. Plus, not clenching the sphincter muscle is a good thing.

Want to share your tried & true tips for helping a constipated toddler go? Let us know in the comments section on our Facebook page.

Can Dogs Eat Bananas? | Purina

Bananas are the perfect go-to snack. They’re sweet, provide energy and come in their own convenient wrapper. Can dogs eat bananas, though? Purina experts say yes—bananas are a great treat for your pooch.

Unlike other fruits, which may have toxic components, every part of a banana is safe for your dog to eat. That’s not to say there aren’t any risks involved, though. Our experts explain how and when to treat your dog to this fruit without causing digestive upset.

Can Dogs Have Bananas?

Yes, dogs can have bananas. They may not get all the nutritional benefits humans get from this fruit, but bananas make a good—and motivating—treat.

If you’re wondering “Can puppies eat bananas?”, check with your veterinarian. Puppies need a specific diet for their growth and development. Added calories from bananas and other fruits could interfere.

Are Bananas Good for Dogs?

Peeled bananas are best for dogs, but if he gobbles one whole, don’t worry. Banana peels aren’t toxic to dogs. “That’s not to say eating a banana whole won’t cause your dog to throw up or have diarrhea,” Purina Senior Nutritionist Jan Dempsey says. “That reaction means his system isn’t accustomed to digesting all the fiber a banana peel contains.” It’s always best to peel this fruit and cut it into appropriate serving sizes.

Despite the low risk (unlike grapes or cherries), bananas aren’t as nutritious as you might think. Because the servings are small, the beneficial nutrients may not make a difference. That’s fine, according to Dempsey. She explains, “Bananas do contain certain nutrients like potassium. But if your dog is on a complete and balanced diet, you’re not relying on the banana to supply anything essential.”

When are Bananas Bad for Dogs?

Like other fruits, bananas contain natural sugar. Too much of any type of sugar can cause weight gain, which can lead to other health issues. To avoid these negative effects, follow the 90/10 rule. Ninety percent of your dog’s daily calories should come from his dog food and the other ten from treats.

Some people think bananas will improve symptoms of digestive upset like diarrhea. According to Dempsey, “Bananas aren’t a cure-all for dogs with diarrhea or constipation.” Instead of feeding your dog more bananas, watch his food intake and reduce the amount to see what he tolerates. If diarrhea and other symptoms don’t resolve within 24 hours, call your veterinarian.  

How to Serve Bananas for Dogs

As mentioned earlier, ask your veterinarian before feeding your dog or puppy any new foods. They can tell you the best serving size based on his age, size and more. To serve your dog a banana, peel it and cut it into an appropriate size and share the treat with your pup.

If your dog doesn’t seem to like fresh bananas, try them frozen. “Freezing a fruit or vegetable is another way of changing its texture to make it interesting. In an animal’s eyes, it probably makes it a different kind of treat, since it’s a different texture and temperature experience,” says Dempsey. Frozen bananas make for an especially tasty and refreshing treat on hot days.

When you follow these recommendations, you can confidently feed your dog special treats like bananas. If you have more questions like “Can dogs eat bananas?”, our experts have answered similar questions about other fruits and vegetables. For more information, tips and advice from Purina experts, click here.

Can Dogs Eat Bananas? [Updated August 2020]

Writer, Mom of a Fab Fur Fam of Five | + posts

Lynn is a writer and long-time Learning & Development Manager at a large PNW retailer. She’s also mom to 3 dogs & 2 cats!

Bananas are delicious and loaded with essential vitamins and nutrients, but is this popular human food good for dogs? Absolutely! Bananas are a brilliant choice for a healthy, fat-free, low-calorie treat. They’re low in cholesterol and packed with nutrients to support your dog’s overall health. 

What are the health benefits of bananas for my dog?

It’s important to note that every dog needs a balanced diet, just like humans do, and your dog should have 90% of its diet comprising a balanced dog food. However, just like people, dogs like a special treat occasionally and as pet parents, it feels good giving them a healthy snack. Dog treats are an enjoyable way to reward and motivate your dog, and fruits and veggies are excellent for this purpose. If you’re looking for a healthy fruit treat, bananas are an excellent choice.

Besides being tasty, the banana is an inexpensive fruit available year-round. It also comes in its own packaging for easy transport when you and your dog are on the go! This sweet fruit provides excellent sources of essential vitamins and nutrients like potassium, magnesium, Vitamin C, Vitamin B6, and Biotin important for your dog’s overall health. Bananas are also high in fiber, and low in fat and cholesterol, beating out packaged dog treats that may contain excessive fats or additives.

Let’s look closer at the benefits of the vitamins and nutrients in bananas to see how they contribute to your dog’s health:

• Fiber: Bananas have a high fiber content important to your dog’s digestive system. Fiber moves food along the intestinal tract, helping to resolve constipation, diarrhea, and some blockages that can occur.
• Vitamin C: A powerful antioxidant that boosts your dog’s immune system.
• Potassium: Supports healthy kidney and heart function, promotes healthy bone density, regulates fluid levels, and helps muscle development.
• Magnesium: Promotes healthy bone growth while helping the body use vitamins and minerals more effectively.
• Biotin: Promotes healthy skin, coat quality, and supports muscle development. 
• Vitamin B6: A critical coenzyme for brain and body functions. It regulates fluid balance, builds proteins, regulates hormones, and supports neurotransmitters in your dog’s body.

As healthy and convenient as bananas are, they are also high in sugar that,  if served too frequently, can lead to obesity and diabetes. Monitoring the amount your dog eats decreases this risk.

Do all dogs like bananas?

Unfortunately, no, your dog may not like bananas. Just like their humans, dogs all have food preferences and bananas may not be on your dog’s “like” list. Giving small pieces initially is ideal when introducing this fruit.

Some dogs can show a food intolerance or allergy to bananas. If your dog has never had them, start slow and watch for signs like coughing, sneezing, difficulty breathing, itching, or hives. If you observe any of these symptoms, stop feeding bananas and talk to your vet. If you notice a serious reaction, you’ll want to see the vet immediately.

How much is too much banana?

Most dogs love bananas. But giving them large amounts can cause some problems.  Because of the high sugar content, bananas should be an occasional treat and should never be offered in place of a regular meal. A rule of thumb is large dogs can eat ½ of a banana a day, and small dogs should only have two-three small pieces per day. 

Puppies have specific diets that support their growth and development, so check with your vet about using bananas as treats and how much your puppy can have. 

How will I know if my dog has had too much banana?

If your dog eats too much banana, you may notice some stomach upsets. Also, if your dog gets into bananas on the sly and eats too many, you’ll want to watch its poop. Straining while pooping could mean constipation. If peels were also consumed, a blockage could develop. Gastrointestinal problems would be a more serious issue requiring immediate vet attention.

If your dog has underlying issues with their kidneys or diabetes, too many bananas can dump an overload of potassium in its blood. Symptoms of this would be weakness, disorientation, or even collapse. Your vet knows your dog’s health and can advise you about bananas as treats. 

Can my dog eat a banana peel?

Banana peels are not toxic to dogs, but they contain a lot of fiber that isn’t as easily digested as the fruit of the banana. If your dog eats the peel, it could cause blockages because the peel may not move through the digestive system. This situation would need immediate vet attention.

Are banana chips safe for my dog?

Banana chips are a lightweight, quick energy boost when out hiking or when your dog needs a quick snack and perfectly safe for your dog. Most commercially available chips will have a high sugar content and preservatives added, so consider dehydrated chips that avoid those ingredients. There are also many recipes available for oven-baked banana chips you can make at home.

Simple homemade banana dog treats:

There are a bunch of online resources for DIY banana dog treats, but here are some quick suggestions:

• Slices: The easiest way to give bananas to your dog. Slice up the fruit, discard the peel and offer your dog a healthy, nutritious snack.
• Frozen: Slice bananas up and brush with lemon juice before you pop them in the freezer for a cool dog snack on sweltering days.
• Mix with dog-safe ingredients: Peanut butter and yogurt are tasty combinations with bananas for novel snack ideas. You can even try freezing the mixture for a doggie ice cream treat!
• Use fillable dog toys: Use mashed bananas to fill a dog toy and freeze for a snack that will also keep your dog mentally stimulated while he enjoys his tasty treat!

Are bananas safe for my dog to eat?

Yes, bananas are a wonderful snack for your dog with many health benefits. Filled with essential vitamins and nutrients, they are tasty as well and most dogs love them! However, since they contain high sugar content, they should only be an occasional human food treat to avoid weight gain, stomach upset, or constipation in your dog. My dogs love bananas and I can’t eat one without getting the “puppy eyes”. Because they are so healthy, I’ve had fun figuring out ways to provide nutritious dog treats using bananas.

6 Foods To Give A Constipated Baby

No one likes a leaky diaper, but the alternative — constipation — isn’t a good option, either. And while seeing your baby making that face while they’re pushing (and hearing them grunting) might be kind of funny, it’s no laughing matter when your little stinker can’t poop. Fortunately, there are foods to give to a constipated baby, to keep things, um, moving.

Pooping shouldn’t be painful, but when your baby is plugged up, you’ll need to help them so that they stop straining. “When it comes to treating constipation, I always tell my clients to make sure they are getting in the 3 Fs daily: fluid, fat, and fiber,” Erin Palinski-Wade, RD, CDE, a registered dietitian, tells Romper in an email. “If a baby is lacking even one of these, it can be hard to resolve constipation.”

And just as you should look for foods that can help your baby have a bowel movement, you should also understand which foods can cause constipation, too. Bananas, rice, and even some dairy can be binding, according to Palinski-Wade. In most instances, your baby’s tummy troubles “should resolve within 1-3 days, but you should always discuss constipation with your child’s pediatrician to determine the right treatment plan for their individual needs,” she says.

Here are some foods to help get your baby’s digestion running smoothly,.

1

Prunes

There’s a reason why prunes have a reputation for conquering constipation. “Rich in fiber, prunes provide a sweet tasting choice to help aid gut health and provide your baby with the fiber she needs to improve constipation,” says Palinski-Wade. “For young children, pureed prunes as well as 100% prune juice can both offer benefits.” Palinski-Wade advises one teaspoon to start, depending on your baby’s age, and eventually working up to two tablespoons as your child’s appetite allows.

2

Avocado

Apart from being delish in their own right, avocados are an excellent way to relieve constipation. “Avocados provides a double benefit when it comes to managing constipation in young children since they contains a source of fiber as well as beneficial, unsaturated fats,” says Palinkski-Wade. Since it has a soft texture, it’s super easy to mash into many foods or can even served alone to help alleviate constipation. Adds Kara Hoerr, MS, RDN, CD, a registered dietitian: “Avocado is a good source of insoluble and soluble fiber as well as unsaturated fats. If your baby doesn’t get a lot of fat in his diet, unsaturated fats like those found in avocado may help aid in digestion and move things along.”

3

The “P” Foods

kate_sept2004/E+/Getty Images

When it comes to pee and poop, one way to make sure that you see some results (in your baby’s diaper) is by offering “p fruits,” like prunes, pears, plums, and peaches, advises Hoerr. “These fruits are high in insoluble fiber, which adds bulk to the stool,” says Hoerr. “They also contain sorbitol, a sugar alcohol that is poorly digested in the body and can act as a laxative.” To serve a baby these fruits, try pureeing or adding a small amount (like two ounces), since a little can go a long way.

4

Beans & Lentils

Again, it’s fibrous foods for the win, especially when you want to help your baby have a BM. That’s why beans and lentils can help your kiddo poop. Hoerr explains: “Beans and lentils are high in fiber — which makes the stool soft and bulky — and can also get things moving in the right direction,” she says. You can mash and serve them on their own, or mix them in with other foods for flavor — and some much-needed fiber.

5

Hydrating Foods

While you might not want to give your baby water as a way to hydrate, hydrating foods —such as fruits, soups, or yogurts— can help your baby’s digestion, advises Hoerr. “Keeping your baby hydrated, especially if you’re increasing how much fiber your baby is getting, will help prevent and relieve the constipation,” she says.

6

Chia Seeds

Sure, they might be yummy sprinkled on your smoothie, but they can also help your little one poop… finally. “Chia seeds or ground flaxseeds are a good source of soluble fiber, which can help soften the stool,” says Hoerr. And just like your meals, you can add them into your baby’s oatmeal, yogurt, or smoothies. Pureed foods are also ideal for getting some chia into your baby’s diet.

While constipation typically resolves on its own, seeing your child struggle can be uncomfortable — for the both of you. Try to serve up healthy, high-fiber foods and dietary fats, and keep your baby hydrated, too.

Experts:

Erin Palinski-Wade, RD, CDE, a registered dietitian and founder of Healthy Mom Happy Family

Kara Hoerr, MS, RDN, CD, a registered dietitian

90,000 Five reasons to eat bananas every week. And to be healthy – News of the Surgut region

Bananas are a ready-made snack, which is not only tasty, but also healthy. We figure out what are the benefits of bananas and why you should definitely include them in your diet.

1. Bananas are rich in vitamins

Bananas are an excellent source of fiber, which is essential for normal digestion. But the presence of dietary fiber in them is far from their only advantage.

An average banana weighing about 120 g contains a third of the daily value of vitamin B6, which is necessary for normal metabolism in the body, as well as about 10% of the daily value of potassium, copper and vitamin C. In addition, banana contains magnesium, manganese and antioxidants, for example, catechins. The latter fight cellular aging, reduce the risk of developing heart problems, as well as age-related problems with memory and other cognitive abilities. Bananas contain little protein, but they do not contain fat at all.

2. Bananas help you lose weight

Despite the fact that bananas contain a lot of carbohydrates, they can and should be eaten regularly for those who are struggling with excess weight. One banana contains just over 100 calories, which will relieve hunger for a long time.

By the way, slightly unripe bananas contain more indigestible fiber than ripe ones – such fruits will saturate even better. It is known that vegetables and fruits, which contain a lot of fiber, really help to eat less and lose weight, and therefore those who are interested in getting rid of extra pounds should definitely not neglect bananas.

3. Bananas are good for the heart

Bananas are high in potassium, a trace mineral that is important for heart health. Potassium is essential for the work of muscles, including the myocardium – the heart muscle. The lack of this element can provoke arrhythmia, as well as an increase in blood pressure.

It is known that people who get enough potassium are less likely to experience stroke and hypertension.

4. Bananas Protect Against Cancer

The protein lectin found in bananas has been linked to cancer-fighting properties.It is also an antioxidant: it fights free radicals, the excess of which can provoke the development of cancer.

In a 2004 study, the authors state that children who often eat bananas, drink orange juice, or both are less likely to develop leukemia. Scientists believe that in this case, the antitumor effect may be associated with lectin and vitamin C, which is also present in bananas.

5. Bananas prevent the development of diabetes

Regular consumption of foods that are high in fiber can reduce the risk of developing type 2 diabetes.Bananas, we recall, are just rich in fiber, and therefore are the best suited for such prevention. The American Diabetes Association also agrees and strongly recommends including bananas in your weekly diet for this very purpose, as well as for lowering blood sugar in general.

Banana – useful properties, composition and contraindications

Contents of article

Bananas have antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antibacterial
and anti-allergenic properties.Using banana ingredients
(dopamine, serotonin, epinephrine and norepinephrine) treat atherosclerosis,
hypertension, increase the activity of the liver enzyme, relieve seizures,
and small doses of banana increase the quality and quantity of sperm.

The main thing is not to overuse the banana diet, so as not to get
the opposite effect, as well as not provoke problems with excess weight
and varicose veins.

Useful properties of banana

Composition and calorie content

Fresh banana contains (per 100 g): ^[7]

Calories 89 Kcal

Complete composition

So, fresh banana is not very fatty, but very nutritious and
energetically valuable product.As for the plantains that
require heat treatment before use, then they are rich
the same minerals and vitamins as dessert bananas. Baking
such fruits allows you to preserve their useful substances, but
frying
reduces the amount of vitamins and makes them fatter and more nutritious.

Healing properties

Despite the fact that a banana is 75% water, it contains
many useful components.For example, this tropical fruit
very rich in potassium,
and thus helps the body to maintain heart health and
kidneys, and also enhances attention and activates the brain.
Scientists claim that a sufficient amount of this mineral in
the body prevents the formation of kidney stones, promotes
normalize blood pressure and reduce the risk of heart disease by 27%
seizure ^[11] . Positive effect on the work of the heart
also has magnesium in combination with vitamins C and B6.

In addition, banana is recommended to be consumed when
diarrhea. The fruit itself will not solve the situation, but it will definitely
will help restore the level of potassium that is washed out of the body
during indigestion ^[12] . Also in banana
contains dietary fiber that support normal function
intestines and play an important role in preventing colorectal
cancer. By the way, antioxidants
in bananas can help reduce free radical damage
which, as scientists believe, contribute to the development of cancerous tumors.

Banana is considered an effective aid in the fight against ulcers,
because it contains substances that resist bacteria,
causing this ailment. It also has an antacid effect.
(reduces irritation of the mucous membrane, soothes the digestive
system) and envelops the walls of the stomach.

Bananas are useful at any age, but are especially important at the earliest
stage of life. So, this tropical fruit puree usually becomes
almost the first meal of the baby after breast milk.Usually,
banana does not cause allergies
and provides the child’s body with useful substances. Moreover,
according to the observations of British scientists, if children eat one at a time
banana every day, then the risk of developing asthma
they decrease by 34% ^[12] .

Eating this tropical fruit also benefits
for the organs of vision. Despite the fact that usually with a positive
influence on the eyes associate carrots,
bananas also contribute to the fight against macular degeneration (damage
retina and central vision impairment), due to the presence
in its composition of vitamin A.

Calcium is contained in bananas in not very large quantities, but
it still helps to strengthen bones. In addition, certain
indigestible carbohydrates increase the body’s ability to absorb
calcium from other sources.

Finally, bananas are often and for good reason associated with the product
for athletes. Minerals and fast carbohydrates saturate the body
and energize and energize for an intense workout.In addition to
of this, some scientists believe that bananas help reduce
muscle cramps and relieve dizziness. However, such an influence
not scientifically proven.

Similarly, the effect of bananas on human mood has not been proven.
Antioxidant dopamine, derived from banana, on hormones
does not affect, therefore, associate its entry into the body with
improvement in mood is not worth it. And in the case of the amino acid tryptophan,
which in the body is transformed into the neurotransmitter serotonin
(“Good mood hormone”), then its amount in a banana is so
insignificantly, it can hardly affect the mood.

In medicine

Although bananas are not used in the pharmaceutical industry,
they undoubtedly have medicinal properties that are actively
used in folk medicine. In tropical countries where the banana
is considered one of the main components of the daily diet, for
the treatment of various diseases is used not only the pulp of the fruit,
but also the rest of the plant (roots, leaves, flowers, fruit peel).
For example, infusion of flowers is believed to help with diabetes,
ulcers and bronchitis,
roots – for disorders of the stomach, dysentery, and the leaves –
for skin wounds and burns ^[13] .In our area, the use of banana for medicinal purposes is mainly limited
using the fruit and its peel.

Drinks and infusions

In case of bronchitis in combination with drug treatment, it is recommended
drink a honey-banana drink. To prepare it, you must clean
and mash 3 ripe bananas, pour 400 ml of boiling water over them, and give the mixture
brew for about 30 minutes. Add to the cooled product
2 tablespoons honey
and drink half a glass 4 times a day for 5 days.

Chocolate banana can help get rid of sore throat
drink. You need to mash 1 ripe banana and add 1
a tablespoon of cocoa powder.
Then dissolve the resulting mixture in 1 glass of boiled milk.
Take the remedy at bedtime for 5 days.

To combat dry cough, it is advised to knead one ripe banana,
add 100 ml of orange
juice, 200 ml boiling water, 1 tablespoon honey and cinnamon to taste.Use the product for 5-7 days. And if a whole banana
brew with the peel, like tea, adding a little cinnamon, it will come out
a cure for insomnia.

Traditional healers claim that 1 mashed banana, covered with a glass
milk can help the body cope with mild allergic
reactions. The drink should be consumed 2-3 times a day. And if we add
a little honey in this mixture, you get a good hangover cure.

Finally, banana kvass is considered to be an assistant to the body in case of arrhythmias.
To prepare it, 2 cups of chopped banana peels are placed
in cheesecloth and pour 3 liters of boiled water. Then add 1 dining room
a spoonful of sour cream, a glass of sugar and insist for 12 days. On a surface
liquid may form a thin layer of mold that needs
remove immediately. After 12 days, 1 liter of kvass can be poured and filtered
through cheesecloth, and in the remaining add 1 liter of water and a third of a glass
sugar, leaving to infuse for a few more days.Drink kvass
you need half a glass 2 times a day before meals.

Applications

Banana peel, less often banana pulp, is used as
applications. The inner side of the skin acts like a natural
antiseptic, and thanks to tannins and wax, it can help
stop the bleeding. In addition, the oils in its composition contribute to
relieving pain and itching.
Thus, apply the peel or pulp, gently scraped off
with a knife, it can cause scratches, abrasions, calluses, bruises, burns,
insect bites.In folk recipes, they also offer regularly
applying banana peels to warts. The result should be
is noticeable after 3-4 weeks.

In oriental medicine

In Eastern practice, banana is considered a useful product and is used
for different purposes. Particular attention is paid to the ripeness of the fruit, because
this greatly affects its medicinal properties. For example, with ripening,
a protein appears in the banana, which is involved in preventing
the development of cancerous tumors.Conversely, an unripe banana contains
resistant starch (dietary fiber), which Indian
doctors, improves the condition of diabetes mellitus.

Oriental medicine also considers banana to be an effective remedy
cleaning of blood vessels. This fruit contains phytosterols that
help lower cholesterol levels. According to one of the recipes, it follows
pour a cup of tea with 50 g mashed banana and add 2 teaspoons
honey.This remedy should be drunk in the morning and in the evening.

In addition, in Eastern practice it is not customary to combine a banana
with milk, as is often done in the west. It is believed that it is
the compound negatively affects the digestion process, can provoke
allergies, and can also cause seemingly completely unrelated
with this, cough and runny nose ^[14] .

In scientific research

Since banana has a lot of useful properties and is the main
part of the diet in many tropical countries, it has long been an object
scientific research.Scientists are looking for ways to do
this fruit is more resistant to various diseases, and is also being studied
its potential as a medicinal product.

For example, recently a 10-year humanitarian
a project by a group of Australian researchers aimed at
remove bananas rich in provitamin A. Such a task for scientists
put in connection with the fact that in Uganda and a number of other African
countries hundreds of thousands of children die or become blind due to lack of
of this vitamin in the body.Now the problem can be partially solved,
thanks to future harvests of “golden” bananas ^[15] . Parallel
the mechanisms of carotenoid production in bananas are also being studied in the US ^[16] .

Also in the USA there is a group of scientists from different countries who study
a compound found in banana is the protein lectin (BanLec). Was found,
that this protein is capable of becoming the basis for drugs against viral
diseases (flu,
hepatitis
C, HIV
and etc.). The first experiments showed that it does not allow viruses to penetrate
into the cells of the body, but at the same time causes side effects in the form
irritation and inflammation. Slightly “refined” by scientists,
BanLec will gradually be tested on animals and then on
people ^[17] .

In addition, British scientists are working on the creation of drugs,
which will use fiber from banana and broccoli.
This remedy is aimed at treating patients with illness
Crohn’s (inflammatory disease of the gastrointestinal tract) ^[18] .

In dietetics

Nutritionists recommend banana for inflammatory diseases of the mucous membranes
duodenum, stomach and oral cavity. It includes
in dietary food with
diseases of the pancreas, as well as some diseases
liver and kidney.

With regard to weight loss diets, this
In the sphere, the attitude towards the banana is ambiguous. Some believe that
this fruit is too high in calories and should never be included
in the diet of a losing weight person.Others, on the contrary, argue that
banana, although high in calories, does not contain fat, therefore
it can and should be consumed, but in moderation.

In any case, during the diet, it is preferable to eat immature
bananas, which contain starch that has not yet turned
into sugar. The glycemic index of this fruit is only 30
units, while a ripe banana has about 50. Thus,
unripe fruit will take longer to digest, will avoid sharp
jump in sugar and bring longer lasting richness.

Cooking

In some tropical countries, where the banana is the basis of the diet, its
consumed not only raw or in desserts, but also boiled,
deep-fried, baked over coals. Usually for cooking
side dishes are used by plantains. Africans add them to porridge,
omelets, and even in soups, and in China banana can be found in vegetable
salad. Banana-based sauces, casseroles, chips are prepared from
they make flour and ketchup.

By the way, banana can also come in handy during cooking
meat. In order to make it softer and more delicate, experienced
housewives add banana peels to the pan.

As for the compatibility of banana with other products, it
pairs well with sweet fruits and nuts. Some
nutritionists do not see anything seditious in mixing a banana with dairy
products, while others consider such a tandem unacceptable.It is best to eat a banana in between meals, separately
from other food.

Drinks

Banana is used to prepare a wide variety of drinks:
from fresh juices, smoothies and cocktails to tea, coffee, beer and gin.
More traditional for us, juices and smoothies, everyone is recommended to drink
a day between meals or after exercise. Nutritionists
and Victoria’s Secret trainers advise making green banana juice,
two pears
celery stalk,
handfuls of spinach
lemon and
honey.

Coffee lovers need not be limited to adding banana
syrup, but also experiment with fresh fruit. So, you need
cool 350 ml of strong coffee, add 100 g of ice cream to it,
1 banana, a pinch of cinnamon, some grated chocolate and whisk everything
in a blender. Then put crushed ice in a glass and pour the drink.

Banana is also used in alcoholic beverages. For example, in Uganda
it is used to make the national drink varagi (homemade
gin).Usually
Waragi is drunk from barrels through special long straws.

Banana can also be used to make a sweet cocktail based on
guilt. To do this, take 1 banana for a glass of white nutmeg wine,
2 limes, 100 g chocolate ice cream, 1 tablespoon sugar
powder and after mixing add ice.

In cosmetology

Numerous studies show that banana is not healthy
only for the health of internal organs and systems, but effective
and for external use.This fruit is actively used in the development
cosmetics for face skin and hair care. World
cosmetic giants annually purchase tons of bananas for production
various creams, masks, lotions, etc.

It is believed that banana helps to moisturize the skin of the face, helps
eliminate wrinkles and contribute to the fight against acne.
The recipe for a moisturizing mask is simple: mix half a ripe mashed
banana with 1 tablespoon of yogurt and 1 tablespoon of vitamin oil
E.Apply to cleansed face and rinse off after 30 minutes. For
to make the skin more elastic and elastic, you should mix
banana peel pulp and 1 yolk. Such a mask
hold for 5 minutes and then wash off. Treating acne is easy enough
rub the affected area with the inside of the peel and through
rinse with water for a few minutes.

In hair care, banana provides nourishing, moisturizing
and a firming effect.To achieve the effect and to avoid
difficulties, you must adhere to the following recommendations:

• do not knead the banana with a fork, but beat with a blender until you get
  homogeneous mass, otherwise the lumps will be poorly washed out;
• before rinsing off the mask with water, apply to hair and
  lather the shampoo, otherwise the hair may remain sticky;
• Do not keep the mask on your hair for more than 20-30 minutes (do not let it dry).

For recipes, for the preparation of a nutritional formula
you just need to beat a raw egg
with 4 tablespoons of mashed banana.To achieve moisturizing
effect, you need to mix 3 tablespoons of mashed banana and avocado,
a raw egg and 2 tablespoons of unrefined olive
oils. In the fight against hair loss, it is advised to combine 4 tablespoons
banana puree with 1 tablespoon of sea salt, and add
some olive oil for a thinner consistency.
This mask is rubbed into the roots without applying to the entire length of the hair.

Unconventional use

The banana fruit itself is usually used completely
traditionally, although sometimes banana peels are used instead of cream
for leather shoes or as a cosmetic, but much more
banana leaves find a wide range of uses.

Firstly, they are used as a decoration during the
various Buddhist ceremonies and rituals. Also in India
they serve as plates for traditional dishes. Second, from banana
leaves make a kind of umbrellas, as well as a semblance of packaging
paper for products. Thirdly, even a special species is grown
plants – textile banana. Its sturdy false trunk of leaves
goes to the manufacture of fishing nets, sea ropes and rafts.Finally, in some regions of India, the banana leaf is still
used instead of toilet paper.

Dangerous properties of banana and contraindications

Like any other food product, with an overall positive effect
on the body, in some situations, a banana can produce the opposite
the effect. This does not mean that it needs to be completely eliminated.
from the diet, but under certain conditions, the consumption of this fruit
worth limiting.

• Banana actively removes fluid from the body, as a result of which
  there is a thickening of blood and a decrease in its flow to the organs
  and body parts. Therefore, people suffering from varicose veins
  varicose veins, men with erection problems, and
  patients with thrombophlebitis
  you should not get carried away with eating bananas.
• Taking beta-blockers for cardiac diseases significantly
  increases the level of potassium in the body, so do not consume
  a large number of bananas rich in this mineral, especially when
  unhealthy kidneys.
• Bananas in large quantities are not recommended for irritable
  intestines as they can cause bloating.
• Uncontrolled consumption of bananas is contraindicated in people
  obese.
• People with diabetes need to be careful about
  the choice of bananas. It is best to consume slightly unripe fruits,
  because when ripe, they contain complex carbohydrates
  (starch and fiber) are converted to high glycemic carbohydrates
  index.

We have collected the most important points about the benefits and possible dangers of a banana
in this illustration and we will be very grateful if you share
a picture on social networks, with a link to our page:

Interesting Facts

The territories where bananas grow are located in the same climatic
a zone that encircles the entire globe, and received a playful name
“Banana belt”. In many of these countries, the banana is in importance
is not inferior to our bread, but the leaders in the use of this fruit
considered Uganda and Burundi, where, according to statistics, each person eats
about 200 kg per year.

But in the Philippines, bananas are not only eaten, but also good for them
earn. Gokusen was bred by taking the best of 100 other varieties,
therefore, this fruit is more aromatic and sweeter than others. It is grown at a height
500 m above sea level on ecologically clean land. One fruit weighs
about 200g and costs $ 6.

Naturally, growing and consuming bananas for thousands of years, residents
tropical countries could not help but introduce the image of this fruit into their
culture and language.For example, if we have, when everything is going well, they say
“ like clockwork “, then in India they will say “ goes like a skin
banana “. There are also many African proverbs in which,
for example, a banana or its leaves are compared to a person: “an old banana
the leaf was once also young and green “or” the woman who gave birth to
child is like a banana tree that has broken under the weight of its
fruits “.

If in tropical countries banana has long been treated favorably,
the same cannot be said about Europe.For example, in Germany in the 30s.
In the twentieth century, an exotic fruit was labeled “unpatriotic”. Everything
the fact is that the money used to import the bananas was channeled
for other needs. To hide it, doctors across the country are forced to
were, following orders, talking about the terrible danger of the banana.
And on the fruit shops were posters “Patriots eat German apples.”

Nowadays, bananas are actively sold all over the world, and marketers
do not get tired of coming up with new ways to increase sales.So, in
overripe bananas with the attached
banana bread recipe. And in Korea they came up with a package in which
there are seven bananas of varying ripeness (from still green to ready
to use today). The idea is that the fruit ripens
gradually and by purchasing such a set, the client receives a ripe banana every day.

The banana is also reflected in world culture. Dedicated to him
monuments (in the USA, Australia, Canada, Norway), open museums
(in Australia, USA, Germany), and on April 10, people celebrate a day dedicated to
this fruit.In addition, songs were sung about bananas (for example, “We have
no bananas “by Louis Prima or” Green bananas “by Jake Owen).
children’s poems, they were often depicted in still lifes. And in the last
time there were artists, like the Dutchman Stefan Bruchet, who
turn banana fruits into a real work of art.

Botanical Description

Banana is the fruit of a large perennial herb.
genus banana (lat. musa ) of the banana family (lat.
musaceae ). Although in everyday life and in cooking we are used to
consider bananas just fruits, botanists classify them
like berries. It is these non-standard berries that are among the world’s top most
important crops along with wheat,
rice, corn
and potatoes.
According to statistics, people around the world eat about
one hundred billion bananas ^[1] .

Origin of the name

As for the scientific term Musa, there are two versions of it
origin. According to the first, it was borrowed from Arabic
language in which the word mauz (Arabic: موز) means banana.
According to the second version, the Latin name was given in honor of the Greek
Renaissance botany Antonio Muses . As far as
the word “banana”, it sounds the same in most modern
European languages.Probably originally Portuguese or Spanish
adopted it from the West African language Wolof, in which it is so
and pronounced – banana ^[2] .

History

Numerous researchers on the origin of the banana agree that
that the homeland of this fruit was the Malay Archipelago and Oceania. Scientists
it is believed that people began to grow bananas there for consumption
for food in the 5th millennium BC And some even argue that
banana was cultivated in Papua New Guinea (Oceania) as early as the 8th millennium
BCNS. ^[3]

Until now, disputes about the period of the appearance of bananas in Africa do not subside.
So, some researchers are convinced that bananas in Madagascar
grown for about 3 thousand years. However, more substantial evidence
indicate that these fruits appeared on the African island
only in 400-600 AD, thanks to the Asian colonialists. About
at the same time, bananas spread throughout the Middle East, and in
territory of China, they appeared a little earlier – about 200 AD.NS.,
although they managed to gain wide popularity only in the twentieth century
^[4] .

Thanks to Portuguese sailors who discovered the sweet yellow fruit
in Africa, banana plantations appeared in the Canary Islands, and
from there, these fruits opened the road to the Caribbean,
Central and South America. As for the North American continent,
then there yellow fruits were included in the diet of local residents only in the second
half of the nineteenth century.

The same fate befell the banana in Europe. Before the Victorian
era bananas were not in great demand, although they were already known
in the Old World (according to legend, their great taste struck Alexander
Macedonian, who brought them from India). New wave of interest
rose to bananas in the 19th century in German Hamburg, where this overseas
the fruit was brought by sailors and swept across Europe. Especially
the new delicacy fell in love with the French.What’s more in Paris
the banana has become an integral symbol of salon life.

As for Russia, the active import of bananas began under Nikita
Khrushchev. Naturally, we talk about the ubiquitous availability of these fruits.
not necessary, but in big cities they appeared from time to time
on shelves. However, in the 60s. worsened relations between the USSR and one of the
the two main suppliers of tropical fruit are China. And the other
the supplying state, Vietnam, was at war, so imports
bananas have practically stopped.In the 70s. Leonid Brezhnev established
import of fruit from Africa and Latin America.

Interestingly, unlike our time, when yellow is sweet
banana can be purchased almost anywhere in the world, before
it was not possible to enjoy the sweet variety of this tropical fruit everywhere. Not in all countries where bananas grew,
they were edible raw. Yes, and flavoring
the qualities could differ markedly.

However, in the 19th century, a fortunate combination of circumstances contributed to
spreading sweet banana fruits around the world.At the beginning
century French botanist and chemist Jean-François Pouillat brought from the island
Martinique to Jamaica, a variety of banana, which later received the name
Gro Michel ^[5] . This sweet tropical fruit quickly gained popularity
among local residents, and with the imminent appearance of the first cooling
chambers, Jamaica established the first large shipments of bananas to other
country. Thus, Gros Michel gradually gained worldwide fame.

Grades

The species and varietal diversity of bananas is amazing.Besides plants,
producing edible fruits, there are also decorative and wild bananas.
Directly edible banana varieties are conventionally divided into dessert
(with sweet pulp) and plantains (with hard, starchy
core). The former are usually eaten raw or dried,
and the latter require heat treatment or are used as
feed for livestock.

Interestingly, almost all varieties of edible
bananas are varieties of one cultigen – a cultivated plant,
unparalleled in the wild.Sometimes wild bananas have a visual
similarity to the familiar yellow crescent moons, but inside they are mottled
seeds, and a tiny amount of pulp has an unpleasant taste.

With regard to edible bananas, almost all existing
varieties are variations of a human-bred hybrid. The work of breeders
allowed to achieve good taste characteristics and the necessary
the level of resistance to diseases and pests. Considering what breeds
the plant is vegetative, then, in fact, all bananas growing today have
the same progenitor.

Nevertheless, even such painstaking work is not a guarantee of safety
for fruit. For example, the already mentioned Gros Michel variety, indisputable
leader of world supplies, was almost completely destroyed in the middle
XX century a disease called “ Panamanian fungus “. After
this, scientists have developed a new variety – Cavendish , which
can now be found on store shelves all over the world.

Among the unusual bananas, in addition to the wild one already described, stand out
also red Cavendish , which, in addition to the skin
corresponding color, has a creamy taste with raspberry notes.On the island of Java, you can find a blue banana, and in Florida
and in Hawaii there are bananas Ae Ae , which
view (alternating dark green and light green stripes) more
similar to zucchini ^[6] .
In addition, in many countries of the world, including ours,
the so-called “ baby banana “. As the name suggests,
these are bananas of a small size (up to 12 cm), with a thin skin and creamy
pulp.As a rule, they are sweeter than ordinary fruits.

Features of cultivation

Contrary to popular belief, the banana fruit does not grow on a palm tree, but
on the herb of the same name, which, by the way, along with
bamboo, is considered the tallest grass in the world. Overlapping
on top of each other in a spiral, the leaves, from which the false trunk is formed,
sometimes they reach 12 meters in height. The color of the leaves varies in
depending on the type and variety of banana (completely green, two-color
– purple-green or spotted – with brown blotches).Developing
banana sheds old leaves, and inside the false trunk appear
new shoots.

The flowering period of a banana begins 8-10 months after planting.
A peduncle grows out of the ground through the trunk, forming a complex
an inflorescence of three tiers of flowers: on top are female flowers,
which form fruits, below are bisexual, and even below are male.
Pollination occurs thanks to bats, birds and small mammals.Several hundred bananas usually develop from one inflorescence. Colour,
the shape and taste of the fruit depend on the variety.

The natural habitat of bananas are territories located
in the tropical and subtropical zones. Plants need high
humidity, and the optimum temperature ranges from 25
up to 36 ° C. In addition, bananas grow best in acidic soil,
rich in nitrogen, potassium and phosphorus.

On the territory of Russia, bananas are cultivated only in the vicinity
Sochi, but the low winter temperatures do not allow the fruits to completely
ripen. Typically, at temperatures around 16 ° C, the growth of tropical
fruit slows down, and at a temperature of 10 ° C – stops. Long
being in unfavorable conditions can lead the plant to
death.

Despite the unsuitable Russian climate, a banana with edible
fruits can be grown directly in your house or even in an apartment,
if certain conditions are met:

1. 1 you need to choose seedlings
   dwarf varieties (e.g. Musa Super Cavendish Dwarf or Musa
   Cavendish Dwarf), which reach a height of no more than 1.5-2 meters;
2. 2 the best location for a tropical plant – the brightest place possible;
3. 3 banana needs abundant watering and high
   air humidity, if it is provided in the apartment, it is not obtained in
   fully, then the leaves need to be sprayed regularly.

In addition, it is recommended to fertilize every 2 weeks
banana, as well as replant it in time. A sign that the plant
ripe for a larger container, there are usually roots that
become visible from the drainage holes. Typically bear fruit
the banana starts when it has reached a size suitable for pots with a volume
30-50 l.

Selection and storage

Bananas are usually harvested unripe and then refrigerated
transported all over the world.However, the beauty of this fruit is
that it ripens even when it is already plucked from the branch. Choosing bananas,
you should start from your goal. If you are planning to eat or
use the fruit in the next 1-2 days, then you can take bananas with
brown dots on the peel. These fruits are already ripe and ready for
addicting. However, brown or black spots indicate
about overripe and the beginning of the process of fruit decay.

Naturally, you should check that the banana peel is
elastic, no visible damage.Core too soft or
light brown spots on it are a sign of overripe. if you
you need bananas for future use, then you can take fruits with a greenish peel.
You can also use them in this form, but they have a more viscous
and less sweet taste, so it is better to let them ripen.

When it comes to storing bananas, ripe fruit should be kept at a temperature
7-10 ° C, and ripening – 12-14 ° C. Bananas are not advised to keep in the refrigerator,
since at low temperatures the peel quickly turns black (although
taste has no particular effect).By the way, common
advice on the Internet – wrap banana tails in cling film for
its longer storage – in practice it turns out not
very effective.

Diseases and pests

The result of the long and painstaking work of breeders was the breeding
varieties of Cavendish, which has excellent taste characteristics,
produces good yields and tolerates transportation well. but
for all its advantages, there are certain disadvantages that
become key when it comes to the vitality of the variety.First of all, this is the inability of the plant to produce protective
mechanisms against diseases.

The fact is that edible banana fruits can only be obtained from
plants that have been propagated vegetatively (planting
process). But in this case, the banana stops evolving and
adapt to the environment, and we, on the one hand, everything
time we get an equally high-quality and tasty harvest, and on the other
– susceptibility to disease.

The Gro Michel variety, bred by breeders, fell into the same trap.
In the middle of the twentieth century, he was attacked by the so-called “Panamanian disease ”
TR1 (Tropical Race 1 fungus), which led to the termination of the large-scale
growing Gros Michelle. While developing the Cavendish variety, the researchers
took into account the peculiarities of the disease and made the “new” fruit resistant to it.
However, the organisms that infect the fruit continued to develop. As a result,
mutated Panama disease TR4 threatened further
the fate of Cavendish.

However, the banana is not yet threatened with complete extinction. Scientists continue
conduct research and try to introduce one of the genes into a new variety
Indonesian wild banana, which does an excellent job with existing
to date diseases TR. However, this process slows down a little.
that seed is needed for selective selection, and in edible bananas
they are extremely rare.

In addition to Panama disease, banana is susceptible to roundworm attacks
and black weevils.Also, problems can arise due to bacterial
moko disease or sigatoka fungus, but with these misfortunes the producers
bananas have learned to cope, thanks to chemicals.

Sources of information

1. Busting the seven biggest myths about bananas, source
2. Banana, source
3. Boyd W., Lentfer C. “Tracing antiquity of banana cultivation in Papua New Guinea.”The Australia and Pacific Science Foundation. September 18, 2007.
4. History of banana, source
5. Jamaican bananas and plantains, source
6. 7 Varieties of bananas, spring
7. National Nutrient Database, source
8. National Nutrient Database, source
9. National Nutrient Database, source
10. National Nutrient Database, source
11. 11 proven benefits of bananas, source
12. Benefits and health risks of bananas, source
13. Bhowmik D., Duraivel S., Umadevi M. Traditional and medicinal uses of banana. Journal of pharmacognosy and phytochemistry. Volume 1, Isue 3, source
14. Basic principles of Ayurveda, source
15. Dale J. Golden bananas high in Pro-Vitamin A developed, Queensland University of Technology. July 7, 2017, ref.
16. A better understanding of bananas could help prevent blindness. American Chemical Society, April 20, 2016, source
17. Could a drug engineered from bananas fight many deadly viruses? University of Michigan Health System, Jctober 22, 2015, source
18. Banana plantain fiber could treat Crohn’s disease.University of Liverpool, August 25, 2010, source

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The administration is not responsible for any attempt to apply any recipe, advice or diet, and also does not guarantee that the specified information will help or harm you personally.Be prudent and always consult an appropriate physician!

Attention! The information is for informational purposes only and is not intended to diagnose and prescribe treatment. Always consult your specialist doctor!

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See also properties of other exotic fruits:

90,000 Bananas instead of drugs! 7 times it’s better to eat fruit than a pill!

Bananas are fruits that should be included in everyone’s diet.They are loaded with natural sugars and lots of fiber, which provides our body with energy …

Despite their calorie content, bananas have been proven to help deal with a number of problems.

If you don’t believe me, try bananas and you will feel much better. Bananas are a favorite fruit of many people. However, most people don’t know that bananas can be substituted for pills.

Hypertension. Many people suffering from hypertension are deficient in potassium.Salt, on the other hand, is abundant in their bodies. Potassium binds salts and removes them from the body. So eat potassium-rich bananas and lower your blood pressure.

Reducing stress levels. Banana is considered to be the best “anti-stress” fruit. It contains essential vitamins and trace elements that affect metabolism, which is also associated with stress levels in the body.

Improvement of vision. Bananas contain vitamin A, which is essential for eye health.Our body needs a certain amount of vitamin A per day to reduce the risk of night blindness. Women need 700 micrograms every day, and men need about 900.

Constipation and flatulence. Bananas contain a substance called pectin, which is responsible for removing heavy metals and other toxins from the body. Bananas are an excellent probiotic that stimulates the digestion process. They also reduce flatulence and act as a mild laxative.

Help with PMS. Bananas contain vitamin B6, which has a positive effect on sugar levels and can help reduce negative PMS symptoms.This vitamin helps with bloating and reduces annoying mood swings.

Depression. Bananas contain tryptophan, which increases the production of the hormone serotonin. While bananas will not help you deal with severe sadness, eating two fruits a day can help relieve mild sadness.

Weight loss. Bananas are delicious sweet fruits and can be easily incorporated into any diet. Bananas are high in water-soluble fiber. When the fibers enter the digestive act, they absorb water and slow down digestion, which means you feel fuller longer.

Source: https://i24.info/health/banany-vmesto-lekarstv-7-slychaev-kogda-lychshe-sest-frykt-chem-tabletky.html

This material is a private record of a member of the Club community .CNews.
CNews editors are not responsible for its content.

Reducing packaging use, reusing and recycling is the motto in food packaging

09/29/2021

Whether your packaging is made of glass, plastic, metal, paper or bamboo, it plays an important role in keeping products fresh, safe and shelf-life extended to reduce waste and spoilage.

For the production of primary packaging, that is, packaging that is in direct contact with food, plastic is often used due to its low weight, flexibility and relatively low cost. While some types of plastics are well suited for recycling and reuse, others do not have these benefits and the use of plastic without being reused or recycled is known to have enormous environmental impacts.

At the same time, losses and spoilage of food products are no less a burden. Loss and waste of food leads to the irrational use of all resources that were spent on the creation of such products, including water resources, soil, energy and more. Using proper packaging to avoid food waste and spoilage can provide more environmental benefits than avoiding all packaging.

The main principle is the application of a closed-loop approach.Closed-loop packaging approaches are based on the concept of reducing use, reuse and recycling, such as minimizing the single use of plastic, promoting reuse and recycling of materials, and improving the economic and quality parameters of recycled plastic materials.

Below are four packaging improvement approaches we can use to reduce food loss and waste.

1) Reuse packaging

Food waste is a decrease in its quantity or quality at all stages up to retail. The main causes of damage and spoilage are inadequate packaging in large packages or improper handling of products at different stages of the distribution chain. When transporting vegetables and fruits, especially large losses occur due to mechanical compression or friction.This negatively affects the quality and economic value of fresh produce. Appropriate packaging can significantly reduce these losses, help preserve products during transit and ultimately reduce the carbon footprint of products.

For example, in South and Southeast Asia, banana losses in the traditional supply chain averaged 29 percent. Due to their sufficient softness, bananas are easily damaged during transport, and damage invisible to the eye leads to faster spoilage after ripening.FAO has implemented good post-harvest practices and guidelines for the use of reusable bulk packaging such as plastic shipping boxes. Plastic crates absorb mechanical shocks during transport, thus protecting the product, and the use of local materials such as leaves, straw or newspaper as a liner prevents friction damage.

Fruit entered the market without damage and was sold at a higher price due to better appearance and higher quality.Improved packaging has reduced losses in the supply chain by 61 percent. After use, the plastic boxes are returned to the collection point, washed and reused. If used correctly, these boxes last up to 10 years, which means their carbon footprint is minimal.

Dragee Bind Banana in milk chocolate 100 g, art. PCK-6541.100

Cash

Cash payment is possible only for delivery within Moscow and Moscow region.In this case, the delivery is carried out by our courier service.
Payment is made after delivery and inspection of the goods.
Payment is made only in rubles. After payment you
receive cash and sales receipts. After handing over the goods
claims for packaging and appearance are not accepted
You can also pay in cash at the company’s office at
Moscow, st.Povyemnaya, 14, bldg. 11 (entrance from the side of Smirnovskaya street)

Wire transfer

Payment is made on the basis of the issued invoice. For
receiving an invoice, send your details if you are a legal entity
person, or full name and address, if you are an individual.
You can send the data either to our -or fill in
the required columns when placing an order through the basket.Together
with the goods you will receive originals of invoice, consignment note and
invoice.

Attention! Shipment of goods when paying by bank transfer
the calculation is made only after 100%
prepayment (within 3 working days).
To expedite the shipment of goods after payment
send the payment to our e-mail

By bank card

Payment is made in the mode -.After order confirmation
manager, you will receive a letter with a link to
secure bank page. Fill in the required fields and
confirm the payment. Money transfer is carried out within
20 minutes. After the receipt of money to our account, you will be contacted
manager to confirm delivery date and address.
You can also pay by credit card at the office
company at Moscow, st.Povyemnaya, 14, bldg. 11 (entry from the side of Smirnovskaya street).

Attention! Managers only call back during work
time. When paying by bank cards
no commission is charged. Bank payment
by card to the courier upon delivery of the goods
impossible, since couriers do not have
mobile terminals.

90,000 Banana prices in Ukraine doubled – Economy

22 January 2018, 17:46

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Compared to January 2017, bananas cost almost twice as much as

In addition to the serious rise in prices for vegetables “borsch set” , a sharp jump in prices for bananas was recorded in Ukraine.This is evidenced by the monitoring data carried out by Info-Shuvar analysts.

So, in just a week, wholesale bananas became more expensive by 16%, prices for fruit reached 40 UAH / kg. Compared to the same period in 2017, bananas in Ukraine are already almost twice as expensive.

Experts of the international market of the market associate the rise in price of bananas with a decrease in the world harvest – in the main countries of production, the collection of bananas fell by 18-20%. The deterioration, according to experts, was caused by unfavorable weather conditions, in particular cold and cloudy weather.

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“In addition to the global trend, the rise in price of bananas in Ukraine is intensified by the devaluation of the hryvnia. In fact, bananas are the only type of fruit that continues to rise in price after the holidays on the Ukrainian market. For example, prices for citrus fruits have sagged in recent weeks, even in conditions of devaluation. It is also interesting that the prices for Ukrainian apples, the main competitor of bananas in the fruit basket, have not yet reacted in any way to the rise in price of bananas, although an apple production is also expected to decrease in Eastern and Western Europe “, – explained Tatyana, an expert on the Eastern European fruit and vegetable market. Getman.

According to analysts, Ukraine annually imports 200-230 thousand tons of bananas, and almost 90% of the total volume is purchased in Ecuador. The demand for bananas in Ukraine reaches maximum indicators closer to the beginning of spring, the most expensive bananas are just in March and April.

Recall, according to the National Bank of Ukraine (NBU), over the year in Ukraine, eggplants rose the most – their cost increased by 207%. Experts predict further price increases in 2018, especially for milk, butter and cigarettes.

Read also:

90,000 What foods will help lower cholesterol

A banana and strawberry combination will have a complex effect on heart health
Photo: pixabay.com

Heart health is directly related to cholesterol levels, so it is important to keep it at an acceptable level

Cholesterol in the blood is divided into harmful and beneficial.High levels of bad cholesterol increase the risks of cardiovascular disease due to clogging of blood vessels with fatty plaques. To lower your bad cholesterol, you need to pay attention to your diet and include certain foods. Which ones – tells the portal GH.

Dark chocolate . This product contains a large amount of flavonoids that have beneficial effects on the heart. Also, scientific studies have shown that regular consumption of dark chocolate improves the balance of lipids in the blood.

Strawberry . Strawberries contain polyphenols, plant compounds that help the entire cardiovascular system work. Research has linked strawberry consumption to a reduced risk of heart problems.

Potatoes . Baked potatoes are high in potassium, which is vital for heart function. If you get enough of this macronutrient, you can lower your blood pressure and reduce your risk of stroke.

Bananas . Bananas are directly capable of lowering cholesterol levels by removing them from the digestive system, which is why bananas, which are also rich in potassium, are considered one of the best foods for the heart.

Spinach . Spinach, like other leafy greens, helps lower cholesterol levels by producing nitric oxide. This compound dilates blood vessels and reduces the risk of plaque formation.

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