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Do bananas have acid in them: Are Bananas Acidic? (Are They Good For You)

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Are Bananas Acidic? (Are They Good For You)

Bananas are one of the most popular fruits globally and are the most widely consumed fruit in the United States. If you are a banana superfan, you may be wondering if bananas are highly acidic, whether they are okay for you to eat if you deal with acid reflux, and if it is healthy to eat bananas every day. Keep reading for more on these questions and more. 

Are bananas acidic?

Bananas have a pH of about 5, which makes them mildly acidic, but they are close to neutral. When scientists identify acidity, they use a number scale, ranging from 0 to 14. If something has an acidity of 0, that means it has a very high level of acidity.

On the opposite end of the spectrum, if something has an acidity of 14, that means that it is more alkaline or basic. Something that falls right in the middle at a pH of 7 is neutral and is neither acidic nor alkaline. 

RELATED: ARE MANGOES ACIDIC? (SHOULD YOU AVOID THEM)

Are cooked bananas acidic? 

Cooking bananas will not majorly change the level of acidity and are just as healthy to eat.  

Are bananas bad for acid reflux? 

Are bananas acidic?

In a study conducted by Indian researchers in 1990, it was found that banana powder is actually helpful for relieving indigestion symptoms. A more recent study (from 2013) found that banana extract can even help heal ulcers. 

If you have trouble with acid reflux, then eating small amounts of bananas a day will likely not impact your acid reflux, and it may even help to improve it. 

RELATED: Are Kiwis Acidic? (Should you eat them?)

For people who have bad acid reflux, some foods are good to eat. These foods do not have high amounts of acid and may help to improve your symptoms. Doctors recommend eating leafy greens, potatoes, cucumbers, ginger, oatmeal, lean meats (such as turkey, chicken, and fish), egg whites, walnuts, and avocados

What will happen if I eat bananas every day? 

Bananas are full of important nutrients such as potassium, magnesium, manganese, copper, and vitamins B6 and C. But like any food, eating too much of one thing is not great for your health.

Eating about one to two bananas a day is considered healthy and a moderate intake of fruit. But don’t forget to eat other foods that are also high in nutrients to keep a balanced diet. 

Are Bananas Acidic? Pin it!

If you eat more than two bananas a day, it is simply too much of a good thing. Unripe bananas are high in carbs that come from starch. And as the fruit ripens, the starch converts to sugar, which leads to you receiving a high caloric intake from sugar. 

Don’t know what to drink? We made a list of more than 20 most and least acidic juices and 20+ alcoholic drinks ranked by acidity levels.

Additionally, if you are someone who has diabetes or prediabetes, eating a lot of carbs without balancing it with healthy fats and proteins can make it difficult to manage the blood sugar levels in your body. 

Is it healthier to eat bananas raw or cooked? 

Raw bananas and cooked bananas are about the same when it comes to supplying health benefits. The potassium becomes more concentrated when you dry bananas (which is done by exposing raw bananas to low heat for several hours).

These dried bananas supply about four times more potassium per once. But calorie-wise, raw bananas, and cooked bananas are equal. 

The exception to cooking bananas is if you boil the bananas in hot water. The boiling water will remove a large amount of potassium from the bananas- a 2014 study in the International Journal of Food Sciences and Nutrition discovered that boiling a banana to cook it will cause the banana to lose about 40% of its potassium level. 

RELATED: Are Acai Berries Acidic? (Good for GERD?)

What fruits are low in acidity? 

If you want to eat fruits that are low in acidity and that will be okay for acid reflux, try to avoid citrus fruits. Fruits like bananas, apples, pears, and melons are good to eat. Apples and pears have a pH of about 4, bananas have a pH of 5, and melons are the closest to neutral with a pH of 6.5. Grapefruit and coconut are also good fruits to eat because they are mildly alkaline. 

What fruits are high in acidity? 

If you are trying to eat a diet low in acidic foods, it is wise to avoid citrus fruits. Avoid fruits like lemons, limes, grapes, pomegranates, pineapples, peaches, and oranges.

For example, the juice from lemons has a pH of 2, making it one of the most acidic fruits. Some berries, like blueberries and cranberries, are also high in acidity, so it is best to avoid them as well. 

Don’t know what to drink? We made a list of more than 20 most and least acidic juices and 20+ alcoholic drinks ranked by acidity levels.

RELATED QUESTIONS

Is baking soda good for stomach acid?

Baking soda can neutralize stomach acid and provide immediate relief. Baking soda relieves indigestion, bloating, and gas after eating. Sodium bicarbonate is generally safe and non-toxic, and it has alkaline PH. It would be best if you were careful and not overuse it as it can cause the rapid formation of gas in the stomach, which can cause stomach especially after alcohol binging or a large meal. Baking soda is a good treatment for immediate relief from acid reflux.

What is the best time to eat bananas?

The best time to eat bananas would be before workouts to get some energy before or during breakfast. Eating bananas for dinner or after dinner may lead to mucus formation and indigestion. Their sugar content can get stuck on your teeth more readily, increasing the risk of cavities, and that’s why eating bananas in the evening is not recommended.

Are all bananas edible?

The difference between edible and inedible bananas is in seeds. Edible bananas produce fruit without any seeds, whereas inedible bananas produce a fruit with pea-sized seeds, which means that eating a banana with loads of seeds is almost physically impossible, so not all bananas are edible. All modern edible bananas are hybrids of two different mutations, Musa acuminata, and Musa balbisiana. This created a hybrid without seeds but with a lot of pulp. Hybrids derived from Musa acuminata are more likely to be used as dessert bananas, while those derived from Musa balbisiana and hybrids of the two are usually plantains or cooking bananas.

Sources:  

Are Cooked Bananas Acidic? (n.d.). Retrieved December 17, 2020, from https://askinglot.com/are-cooked-bananas-acidic 

Campbell, M. (2018, November 27). Does Cooking a Banana Eliminate Potassium? Retrieved December 17, 2020, from https://healthyeating. sfgate.com/cooking-banana-eliminate-potassium-12477.html 

Hill, A. (2019, July 01). How Many Bananas Should You Eat per Day? Retrieved December 17, 2020, from https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/how-many-bananas-a-day 

Madell, R. (2020, January 29). 7 Foods to Add to Your Diet for Acid Reflux. Retrieved December 17, 2020, from https://www.healthline.com/health/gerd/diet-nutrition 

Thirteen Acidic Fruits And How They Affect Your Teeth. (2020, May 18). Retrieved December 17, 2020, from https://smilesunlimited.com.au/thirteen-acidic-fruits-and-how-they-affect-your-teeth/ 

Alicia is the senior content editor and writer here at Food FAQ. She has extensive experience in the restaurant and hospitality industry and management. When not eating food for “research”, she’s watching “Friends” for the 100th time.

Are Bananas Alkaline or Acidic?

What pH are Bananas? Can Bananas Cause Acid Reflux? Are bananas alkaline or acidic? Does the ripeness of the fruit affect that? Let’s check it out.

Wonderfully created with creamy and firm flesh, a banana is one of the few fruits that come already naturally prepackaged in yellow jackets. Now, bananas come in various forms and shapes.

There are over 500 banana varieties, the most common one being the sweet and seedless Cavendish banana. It accounts for over 90 percent of all the bananas sold worldwide, making it a ‘hot cake.’

However, because it is seedless, it means it cannot reproduce (it is sterile) through the normal process.

Bananas can be grown and harvested throughout the year and are usually ready for consumption 9 to 12 months after planting.

They have several essential nutrients, including protein, dietary fiber, energy, Zn, Fe, vitamin A, manganese, folate, Vitamin C, and Ca, which is more than any other fruit or cereal.

They are also sodium-free, fat-free, and cholesterol-free. That said, have you ever wondered what else is in a banana other than the nutrients?

What pH are Bananas?

The alkalinity of acidity of something is usually measured on a pH scale ranging from 1 to 14 and is referred to as the pH value.

Any value between 1 and 6 is acidic, while any value from 8 to 14 shows alkalinity. Similarly, a value of 7 indicates the item is neutral, which means it is neither basic nor acidic.

Any food with a pH of 7 and below shows high levels of acidity and foods with more than 8 imply alkalinity, which helps neutralize/counter acidity in the stomach.

So are bananas basic or acidic? Read on to find out:

The Nitty-Gritty

Whether a banana is alkaline or acidic depends solemnly on the ripeness of the fruit.

Most ripe fruits have a pH that is slightly alkaline or less acidic. The same applies to bananas.

Ripe bananas are alkaline (have a pH of around 5.5), while unripe ones are acidic (have a pH of about 6.6, which is less acidic).

Unripe bananas have around 4.4 Millie equivalents of organic acid per 100 grams. The primary one is oxalic acid, followed by malic, tartaric, and citric acid. Citric acid forms 10 percent of the acidity, oxalic 50 percent, and malic 35 percent.

Now, as the banana continues to grow or ripen, the citric and malic acids increase by about 60 percent, while oxalic drops to about 50 percent of the initial amount.

As such, you will find that in a ripe version of the fruit, malic accounts for about 60 percent of the acidity, citric 20 percent, and oxalic 10 percent.

“It is because of this that the fruit is considered alkaline in nature,” says Patrick Takahashi, MD, a gastroenterologist at Adventist Health White Memorial.

What Is Acid Reflux?

The flow of acid from your stomach up to the esophagus is what is commonly referred to as acid reflux. This usually takes place when the LES (lower esophageal sphincter) becomes damaged or weakened.

Typically, the LES closes when food passes via it to the stomach, which prevents the food from moving back into the esophagus. If it doesn’t close properly, however, the acid in your stomach can flow backward, irritating your esophagus lining.

Can Bananas Cause Acid Reflux?

Because they are one of the many great low-acid foods, bananas act as anti-acids to help counter the acid in the body when ripe.

They also produce mucus that coats the stomach’s lining to prevent damage and corrosion. Besides, they are rich in calcium, manganese, magnesium, and potassium.

The potassium has an alkalizing feature that not only helps reduce stomach acidity considerably but also helps with the absorption and digestion of food. Similarly, eating the fruit bolsters the sphincter by enhancing its working capabilities.

So, having a banana either before or after meals can go a long way in countering acid reflux. You can integrate the fruit to your daily diet in the form of a topping to cereals, salads, or even smoothies.

But what about unripe bananas? Unfortunately, they do the opposite! They can trigger acid reflux. They contain potassium nitrate, which is a major cause of acid reflux and indigestible carbohydrate, which causes gut fermentation.

So what do these mean for your health?

· High Fiber Content

Besides being an alkaline food, bananas are awash with both insoluble and soluble fiber. Soluble fiber slows down digestion, which causes you to feel full for longer. It is the main reason bananas are highly recommended for breakfast meals by dieticians.

· Heart Health

Alkaline foods with high fiber are also great for heart health. According to Webmd.com, increasing your consumption of the humble banana fruit can lower your risk for coronary heart disease as well as various cardiovascular diseases.

· Ease in Digestion

According to the Harvard School of Public Health, bananas have both sour and sweet taste. The sweetness brings about a feeling of heaviness while the sourness stimulates Agni, digestive juices that support digestion and enhance metabolism.

· Nutrients

Banana is a powerhouse of nutrients. It is awash with critical minerals and vitamins such as magnesium, folate, calcium, folate, and manganese, which all play essential roles in keeping you healthy as well as to proper functioning of the body.

· Blood Pressure

Salt is the main culprit when it comes to conditions such as high blood pressure. Bananas have high potassium content with low salt content, which makes it excellent for people with this condition. Just ensure you consult your doctor or nutritionist before incorporating it into your diet.

Note

· If you are buying in dozens, ensure you go for firm ones so that they can serve you for at least four days before spoiling.

· They usually ripe very quickly, which is why the peels turn black, and the flesh turns gooey after a while. The best idea is to purchase them in small quantities so that you enjoy them fresh.

· Go for those without squishy spots or blemishes

Summary

Yes, it’s true, alkaline foods like bananas may help you shed off some pounds, but these may catapult, the risk of other conditions such as muscles and weak bones if not done in the right way.

So if you want to try alkaline foods regularly, ensure you also take enough protein. Also, note that bananas will not help change your blood pH but will help you improve your overall health.

pH of Banana — Acidic or Alkaline?

Botanically belonging to the berry family, Bananas are found across the globe, varying in shape, size, color, etc. Hundreds of banana varieties exist in the world, with the conventional sweet and seedless Cavendish banana being the most popular one. It is important to know the composition and chemical nature of edible fruits so that the consequences of consumption can be determined better.

So, what is the pH of Banana? The pH of bananas usually lies between 4.4-5.2 for unripe bananas, making them acidic in nature. Ripe bananas however have a pH of about 6.5-6.6, which is much less acidic.

Cavendish bananas have been globally cultivated in large numbers.

They are capable of achieving high yields per hectare (due to the short stems and robustness to environmental damage) and account for about 45-50% of the total global banana production.

Being a very popular and widely consumed edible product, a lot of questions arise, from time to time, around factors such as – the nutritional value, alkalinity or acidity, ripeness, etc. about bananas.

 

What is pH and pH scale?

According to chemistry, pH is the potential of Hydrogen or the power of Hydrogen. It is a scale used to specify the basicity or acidity associated with a substance.

For determining the pH, the material has to be in a somewhat aqueous form. This is because pH is an indication of the concentration of H+ ions in the substance and those ions are present only in an aqueous solution

pH = – log [h4O+]

The pH scale is a logarithmic scale that inversely implies the concentration of hydrogen (H+) ions, i.e. as the negative (or reciprocal) of the base ten logarithmic activity of the ions.

The value of pH thus obtained, abets the nature of the concerned element. A pH of 7 indicates that the tested solution is neutral.

If the pH falls in the bracket of 0-7, then the solution is termed as an acidic solution, and if it lies between 7-14, the solution is a basic solution by nature.

The Role of Indicators

Indicators are chemical substances that aid the pH determination process by showing color changes with respect to the nature of the solution.

This means that the indicators help in analyzing the pH by merely changing the color of the solution.

Each indicator, by virtue of its own properties, has an acidic color, an alkaline color, and a definite pH at which it changes the color.

For example, Phenolphthalein is an indicator that is practically colorless in acidic solutions and changes color from dark pink to red for strongly alkaline solutions, with pH values starting from 9.

The Universal indicator gives different colors at varying pH values.

It ranges from Red (for strongly acidic solutions with pH of 0-1) to Purple (indicating strong alkaline solutions with pH 12-14), as shown in the figure.

 

Determining the pH of Bananas

Cavendish bananas have been globally cultivated in large numbers.

They are capable of achieving high yields per hectare (due to the short stems and robustness to environmental damage) and account for about 45-50% of the total global banana production.

Being a very popular and widely consumed edible product, a lot of questions arise, from time to time, around factors such as – the nutritional value, alkalinity or acidity, ripeness, etc. about bananas.

Excessively acidic fruits can be harmful to health. Determining the pH value of a banana can help establish the corollaries of its consumption.

The most basic and simple method that can be followed for measuring the pH of banana (or for that matter, any fruit) is as follows:

  • Wash the banana with water and dry it with a clean paper or cloth towel.
  • Chop it into two pieces and put them in a plate.
  • Graze a small piece of the pH paper (about 1-1. 5 inch) and firmly press it on one half, along the cut surface of the banana.

The paper strip will acquire color, which can be compared to the standard scale.

The color indication can help confirm the pH of the banana. The same process can be repeated for any number of fruits with a different piece of the pH paper.

 

Are Bananas Acidic or Basic in Nature?

Whether a banana is acidic or basic depends downright on the ripeness of the fruit. In general, fruits tend to shift towards a more alkaline value of pH as they ripen. The same is the case with bananas.

While unripe, bananas have a pH ranging between 4.5-5.2, which is a pretty acidic value. The exact pH value of banana depends on the type of cultivation.

Conversely, ripe bananas have an improved pH value in comparison to unripe ones.

The completely ripe bananas have a pH of approximately 6.5-6.6, which makes them a lot less acidic.

The main acidic constituents of bananas are malic acid, oxalic acid, and citric acid. In chemically treated bananas, these acids are significantly low as compared to naturally ripened bananas.

As the bananas gradually season, the fraction of citric acid and malic acid increases, and that of oxalic acid decreases.

Malic and citric acids are a lot weaker than oxalic acid and therefore the acidity of the fruit decreases with its growth.

In a fully grown ripe banana, the proportion of malic acid is about 50-60 percent, citric acid is about 20-25 percent and oxalic acid is about 10-15 percent.

Due to its pH value being closer to the neutral value of 7, bananas are broadly classified as alkaline fruits and not acidic fruits.

 

Bananas and Acid Reflux

What is Acid Reflux and How does it occur?

Acid reflux is a chronic digestive disorder that occurs when the acid or bile from the stomach flows upwards to the food pipe. This leads to irritation in the esophagus lining and can occur frequently.

Acid reflux is usually caused when the LES (Lower Esophageal Sphincter) gets damaged i.e. the valve loses its ability to prevent the contents of the stomach from entering the food pipe.

As a consequence, the separation between the stomach and the food pipe is weakened and the bile paves way upwards, causing inflammation like sensation in the chest.

Does Consumption of Bananas cause Acid reflux?

The answer to the above question is No, bananas do not cause acid reflux. Instead, they help in countering the uneasiness caused by the disorder.

Bananas aid the formation of a protective mucous layer in the stomach, thereby helping in diminishing the magnitude of heartburn and irritation caused by excessive acids.

This fruit is also rich in minerals such as magnesium, manganese, potassium, and calcium.

From the seedless fruit to its peel, it is completely edible and can be consumed in a number of interesting ways – even as a topping to cereals or in the form of a smoothie or a shake.

The high potassium content (about 350mg Potassium in 100g of Banana) in the full-grown ripe bananas enriches the alkalinity of the fruit and deteriorates the stomach and esophagus acidity considerably.

It even amends the working capabilities of the Sphincter.

So, gorging on the low-acid ripe bananas (in adequate amounts), during the day can help ease the irritations in the abdomen, chest, and neck, balance the stomach acids, and counter acid reflux.

On the contrary, unripe bananas tend to have a more acidic pH value for themselves and are hence capable of triggering acid reflux.

Their potassium content is lower and potassium nitrate dominates the composition. Being a stodgy (indigestible) carbohydrate, potassium nitrates catalyze gut fermentation, thereby amplifying the acid reflux and hence, inflammation.

How bananas help in upholding health?

Fibre Content: Bananas are encumbered with rich soluble as well as insoluble fibers. These fibers break down slowly in the digestive system and keep the stomach occupied for a longer time.

Such fiber-rich fruits reduce the unnecessary intake of food and are good for consumption during breakfast or as snacks.

Counter Acid Reflux: Acid reflux is the flow of acid from the stomach upwards to the food pipe when the LES gets damaged. Bananas also help in forming a protective mucous layer in the stomach.

Being more inclined towards alkaline properties and containing potassium, calcium, and magnesium, ripe bananas help in countering this acid reflux, while unripe do the exact opposite (as they contain potassium nitrate).

Easy Assimilation: Bananas have both sweet and sour constituents. The sugariness ensures a feeling of heaviness.

Owing to the sour nature of the fruit, digestive juices are secreted which boost metabolism and improve digestion.

Due to this property, it is also used as an effective home remedy for digestion related problems.

Nutritional Value: They contain an assortment of nutrients such as carbohydrates, vitamins (especially A and C), calcium, protein, and minerals like potassium, iron, etc.

They are fat-free, cholesterol-free, and sodium-free and are thus suitable for consumption during pregnancy or for people concerned with blood pressure.

Completely Edible: The banana peels are not at all poisonous and can be served in cooked, fried, boiled, or crushed (in a blender) form.

The peel is rich in Vitamin B6 and B12, potassium, magnesium, and some fiber, and taste better for ripe bananas.

Improvise Vision: The alkaline fruit banana has a fair amount of Vitamin A, which helps in balancing the normal vision, enhances the eyesight at night, and keeps the eyes healthy.

It helps in the prevention of macular degeneration.

Assist Replenishment of Energy: For people who exercise (especially those attending the gym), bananas are recommended, as they top off the energy consumed and also help achieve electrolyte balance in the human system.

Being a natural energizer, they do not pose side-effects and remove oxidative stress.

 

Conclusion

Bananas tend to be alkaline in nature, with a pH value of approximately 6.5 (when ripe). They are rich in calcium and minerals and suitable for consumption in almost all situations. Gorging on the low-acid ripe bananas (in adequate amounts), during the day can also help ease the irritations in the abdomen, chest, and neck, balance the stomach acids, and counter acid reflux.

Bananas for heartburn & acid reflux

How do bananas help relieve acid reflux symptoms?

Many people are sold on the health benefits of bananas. They are known for preventing depression, strengthening bones, lowering blood pressure, and protecting against stroke. But can they be used as home treatments for GERD?

-Bananas support digestion

First, bananas significantly strengthen our digestive tract. Acid reflux symptoms often result because of poor digestion. To put it simply, poor digestion results in indigestion. Inadequate digestion causes bloating, belching, and gas, which could ultimately lead to stomach contents backing up into the esophagus. All steps that strengthen the digestive tract or promote intestinal health will assist against GERD symptoms.

Bananas Antacid Properties

Banana includes critical nutrients like potassium and proteins. Banana comprises alkaline potassium, therefore reducing the acidity in the stomach. Additionally, it contains sulfur and protein that aids in digestion. Besides that, it contains protease inhibitors that help in eliminating specific harmful bacteria in the gut. Lastly, it’s a perennial source of minerals and vitamin B6, which fortifies the esophagus.

– Bananas Contain Prebiotics

Bananas also contain prebiotics. Prebiotics promote good gut bacteria (probiotics) by functioning as a sort of feeding ground for these healthy gut bacteria, or the good guys. Bananas contain prebiotics that helps in the fermentation of the great, healthy, and the essential bacteria in the gut. This property minimizes the possibility of acid reflux. The stomach needs to operate correctly and on a reliable basis. Having the perfect balance of food bacteria in the gut promotes an overall healthier and correctly working stomach in your digestive system.

Bananas Are High In Fiber

One-way that bananas strengthen digestion is via their high fiber content. Bananas contain pectin, a soluble fiber that promotes regularity by transferring stomach contents along the digestive tract. Bananas contain pectin, a soluble fiber that assists in the gut contents’ smooth motion, preventing any of them from lingering around on your stomach. The fiber acts as anti-acid reflux. When food lingers in your stomach, your gut will continue to create acid. Chances of you to experience an episode of reflux increases.

Bananas May Protect Against Ulcers

Lastly, some researchers think that bananas may protect against ulcers. The gastric mucosa is a thin mucous membrane that lines the stomach. Gastric mucosa helps move food through the stomach and protects the stomach from being digested by its juices. Bananas contain compounds that are thought to fortify the gastric mucosa by increasing its thickness.

The simple fact of the matter is, bananas have incredible health benefits, and including a daily banana into your regular diet may fortify your health in more ways than one. Bananas are a terrific help in digestion and offer a natural antacid and alkalizing effect, which might help prevent ulcers. Although most frequently just peeled and eaten plain, bananas are great in cereals, desserts, smoothies, and salads. We invite you to work peanuts in your regular diet and to keep a lookout for acid reflux favorable recipes that have bananas.

Consider adding bananas to your acid reflux, heartburn, and GERD diet.

See: Homeopathy as Holistic Care for gastroenteritis disorders

Why Do Bananas Give Me Heartburn?

While heartburn via banana isn’t a common occurrence, you will have a bigger chance of getting heartburn if you eat a large amount of raw green bananas. This is because raw bananas consist of 25% starch, which is difficult for your body to digest. Other reasons can include GERD, acid reflux, and even a banana allergy. The ideal solution is to make sure you note what you eat before the heartburn occurs and take the necessary action.

Bananas are quite an interesting fruit given that they have a wide range of varieties ranging from red, blue, yellow bananas to plantains with nutrients that improve your digestive health.

You’ve probably heard of banana’s richness in vitamins and minerals. And while there is no doubt that bananas are rich in fiber, potassium, and other nutrients, that does not mean that it doesn’t have its downs.

So can bananas give you heartburn? How would that work? Does it depend on how many bananas you eat? Are there any side effects you should worry about? Does it only happen if you eat them on an empty stomach?

What is heartburn?

You may have noticed a sharp pain in your chest if you eat bananas for breakfast on an empty stomach. This is typical for most of us as we always resort to this easy-to-access healthy fruit for breakfast. But this is not always safe since bananas are moderately acidic.

What’s most interesting is that how a person feels heartburn will depend from person to person.

So, what kind of symptoms can you expect from heartburn?

  1. A slow-burning sensation that may last quite a while.
  2. A burning sensation inside your throat.
  3. An unwelcoming sour taste in your throat.
  4. Difficulty in swallowing.
  5. Recurring pains in your chest whenever you bend or lay.

But these symptoms can also be due to an allergy.

How can a banana cause heartburn?

Bananas are usually low in acid, so sometimes, they can be recommended as a fruit that can help reduce acid reflux.

But you should know that ripe bananas have a pH value of 5, which does get classified as a “mildly acidic fruit.” Therefore, if eaten on an empty stomach or eaten in large amounts, bananas may cause acid reflux which in turn causes heartburn.

Another way that a banana can cause heartburn is if the banana is not ripe yet when you eat it. This might cause a trigger within your body that causes acid reflux.

This trigger can also be caused by an underlying disease known as GERD. GERD is also known as gastroesophageal reflux disease.

Eating raw bananas or eating them on an empty stomach can cause your stomach acid to try and travel up into the esophagus, causing GERD.

The 

link between acid reflux and heartburn

We have already mentioned that bananas can cause acid reflux and heartburn, but how exactly are the two connected? Are they the same? Or are they unrelated subjects?

Well, the answer simply said is that heartburn is often a symptom of acid reflux.

To put it simply, one leads to the other.

Acid reflux happens when your stomach acid enters the esophagus. Since the esophagus’s position is right behind your heart, you would instantly feel a burn, identified as heartburn.

Depending on the intensity of pain that you may feel during heartburn, there is even a chance that you might mistake it for a heart attack. But you can differentiate between the two easily since heartburn is much more likely to happen after eating.

And be careful! Any sort of movement, including bending or laying down, can intensify the pain.

I

s heartburn a sign of food intolerance?

While heartburn doesn’t always mean that you have a specific food intolerance, there can be a wide range of reasons why you would get heartburn. For example, sometimes it can be because you ate too much acidic food.

And since bananas are classified as alkaline fruits, getting heartburn after eating one could mean that the heartburns are a sign of food allergy.

Heartburn can also be a sign of a bigger physical issue with your sphincter muscle, which isn’t doing its job of containing the acid in your stomach.

The simplest way to find out if a specific food is causing heartburn is to note down if you get heartburn every time you eat. If this is the case, you should visit your doctor because there might be an issue with your stomach sphincter.

Below are some other common causes of heartburn.

  1. Being overweight
  2. Smoking
  3. Pregnancy
  4. Stress and anxiety

Getting rid of the heartburn

If you are experiencing intense pain because of heartburn, the home remedies below can help you ease the discomfort.

  1. Loosen your outfit – This is easy if you are at home. But, if you’re outside or at work, it could be tricky. You can find relief in such situations by unbuttoning your top button on your shirt.
  2. Eat or drink ginger – This is a quick remedy with an ingredient that you can easily find in your kitchen. The positive effects of ginger are well known when consumed in the form of ginger tea, soup, or even as the raw ginger root.
  3. Chewing gum – While most of us might have a bad view about chewing gum, this also can be a quick relief to handle your heartburn. The saliva produced from chewing will help to lower the acidic levels in your stomach. It has been proven that chewing gum for 30 minutes after a meal aids in minimizing heartburn.
  4. Drink a baking soda-water mixture – This is one of the simplest things you can make with some baking soda. Baking soda is a good neutralizer to fight off your excess stomach acid. You can simply dissolve a spoonful of baking soda with a glass of water.

Preventing heartburn via banana

Prevention is better than cure! However, these dos and don’ts might help make sure you eat bananas without ever getting heartburn again.

DosDon’ts
Do hold on to low-fat foods and proteins.
If you have noticed that bananas constantly cause acid reflux, try to avoid eating them for a couple of months and instead try to lean protein choices and fresh vegetables.
Do not eat bananas or any food immediately before you sleep.
Do be aware of your weight, as being overweight negatively impacts your esophagus.Do not smoke or consume alcohol. If you already have acid reflux, this could make it worse.
Do be aware of when and how you eat and avoid eating bananas on an empty stomach or if they are raw.Do not drink coffee or any kind of carbonated soda products as it can trigger heartburn.
Do sleep on your left side to avoid pressuring your stomach.Do not eat too many citric fruits despite them being healthy.
Even if bananas are alkaline, the smallest amount of acidic quality can trigger acid reflux, especially if consumed in large amounts.

Dos and Don’ts When Eating Bananas

Conclusion

There is a common saying that “too much of anything can be bad.” The same applies to bananas. However, in small quantities, bananas can be the safest and healthiest fruit to eat.

But with high doses, it can cause nausea, vomiting, reach high potassium levels, and a common side effect, heartburn. So why risk it?

Remember to note down when you experience heartburn (maybe a food diary), and you can easily isolate the common factors which caused your heartburn. Then it’s just a matter of taking the correct action to make sure you never have to get it again.

Things to Avoid with Acid Reflux

Heartburn. Pyrosis. Indigestion. Acid reflux has many terms that encompass a general uneasy feeling for those who experience it.

We recently published a blog post on the best ways to but wanted to highlight what would be deemed as preventative measures; measures which can help those who regularly experience acid reflux to take on board and see if small actions can eliminate or reduce those oncoming feelings.

We’re going to highlight what to do if you think you’ll have a bout coming on, what foods can act as triggers specifically for you, and some common misconceptions around dealing with acid reflux.

Knowing your body

Being able to identify and get ahead of the problem is always fantastic on those occasions you can thwart reflux. That doesn’t mean carrying tablets at all times and having an acute sense of reactions in the body.

Oncoming warning signs include:

  • Cramps
  • The sensation of wanting to swallow
  • The urge to burp
  • Hiccups
  • A sour or salty taste when you haven’t been eating

Everyone has different indicators for acid reflux, especially if someone has Gastro-Oesophageal Reflux Disease (GORD) – although please remember that GORD is related to reflux and not the same thing.

Picking up on these signals can be a sign to stop eating food that will lead to reflux, or prepare yourself.

Understanding which foods are your triggers

Much like having specific body triggers, the same goes for eating. Not everyone will feel the same way after eating the same foods. For example, while someone may get reflux after having a rich dish like curry, someone else eating the same meal could have reflux due to drinking fizzy pop or having more onions from a side salad or bhaji (onions being a trigger food).

It helps to know what some of the standard trigger foods are, but it’s much more important to realise what affects you. A quick way to identify this is by quickly making a note of what you’ve recently eaten or drunk when you get reflux. If you can keep a record, you’ll be able to pick up on common themes and know where the cause lies.

The range of what it could be is quite broad; many people don’t know that coffee, mint and even bananas are triggers.

Knowing the misconceptions around acid reflux

Don’t drink water but grab some milk.
Eat a banana.
Sit up for half an hour.

There is an endless list of tips that sound like old wives tales, and it helps to get your facts straight. We mentioned bananas as a trigger food, but some people swear by them being good acid relievers. The truth is that bananas change their pH levels as they ripen, so while a ripe banana with a black spot or two may relieve discomfort, a green or bright yellow banana will still have a higher concentration of starch; something which reflux loves.

Other misconceptions like water not being any help (it will provide some relief for your throat, but won’t raise pH levels in the stomach too much), and sitting up being an instant help (posture does affect reflux) do rely on some common sense, but you should know that there are falsehoods that you should check out before acting on sage advice.

Double-check your medication

It can be common for individuals to start getting acid reflux while on specific medication without realising it. For example, taking anti-inflammatory tablets, bisphosphonates and some over the counter tablets can contribute to acid reflux.

If you find yourself getting symptoms when using tablets, you should talk to a doctor and get their advice on what to do.

Talk to OneWelbeck today

Would you like to meet with a specialist who can help effectively diagnose and minimise the effects of acid reflux?

You can get in touch with us here and let us know what digestive problems you currently have. We can then contact you with options to meet with our specialists and help with acid reflux or any GERD related issues.

What are Alkaline Fruits? – 10 Best Alkaline Fruits

In simplest terms, alkaline fruits are those fruits that have lesser acidic ingredients. That said, they have a higher pH level. They are further divided into three categories according to their alkaline level. We can categorize them as:

  • Low alkaline
  • Medium alkaline
  • High alkaline

This division is based on the pH value. To better understand what is meant by alkaline, let’s have a brief overview of alkaline.

What is alkaline?

Simply put, anything which has a pH value of 8 or above is alkaline. Anything below 7 is acidic, and if the pH level is 7, that thing is categorized as neutral. But, when we talk about food, things change a lot. Foods with a pH scale above 2.0 are generally categorized as alkaline (low alkaline to high alkaline), and those foods with pH below 2. 0 are acidic.

Now, as the value starts decreasing on the pH scale, the acidity level increases. Alkaline fruits fall under the same classification. As the pH level increases, the alkalinity of fruits will increase. As mentioned above, alkaline fruits are further classified into three categories according to the alkalinity level. Let’s talk about some low to high alkaline fruits.

Coconut

Coconut

According to the pH Level, coconut is a medium to high alkaline fruit with a pH value of 5.5 to 7.8. Coconut is consumed in different forms such as coconut oil, coconut milk, and processed coconut. However, another worth mentioning is that the coconut has different effects on your body if you use it in different forms. 

If you use fresh coconut, it will be alkaline, and if you use dried coconut, it will be acidic. Similarly, coconut water is also alkaline. It reduces the acidity level in your body, and it is a “magical” drink if you have lost body fluids after vomiting or diarrhea.

Grapes 

grape

According to classification, grapes are low to medium alkaline fruit. Its PH level ranges between 3.5 to 4.5. Now, as we know, as the value increases on the pH scale, the acidity level decreases, and the commodity becomes more and more alkaline. Moreover, the alkaline level of grapes also depends on the place where they are grown. For instance, grapes grown in colder climates are more acidic (less alkaline) as compared to those which are grown in warmer temperatures.

Apples

Apple.

The pH level of apples is approximately 4, which is why they are low to moderately alkaline fruits. Red apples are sweeter in taste, and they are more alkaline as compared to green apples. Moreover, apples are rich in alkalizing magnesium, potassium, and calcium. Magnesium is an essential ingredient used in making acid reflux drugs. Apart from that, apples contain fiber, which helps in absorbing stomach acid. Due to these cohesive traits, it is safe to say that apples are alkaline fruit.

Banana

Banana smoothie and bananas on a plate

With a pH level of 5.6 to 6.5, bananas are also categorized as mild to high alkaline fruit. Ripe bananas have a pH of 6.5, while unripe bananas have a pH of 5.6.

Bananas are a rich source of potassium, vitamin B6, and fiber. They are well known for reducing the stomach’s acidity, and mashed bananas are also used in several low-acid baking recipes. Bananas can control acid reflux as they can coat an irritated esophageal lining.

Avocados 

Avocado

Avocados are also one of the mild to high alkaline fruits. They have a ph value of 6.5, and they are fiber-rich fruit. Avocados are multi-nutrient fruit as they are rich in different vitamins, including Vitamin c, Vitamin B5, Vitamin K, Vitamin E, and Vitamin B6. 

Apart from that, Avocados contain manganese, copper, magnesium, phosphorus, zinc, and other minerals. Avocados are a great source to reduce acidity in the stomach. It is very useful and reduces the effects of normal American diets, which contain high quantities of artificial sweeteners, sugar, and omega-6 fatty acids.

Lemons

Glass of water with fresh lemon juice

When it comes to lemons, there is a fairy tale between the alkaline and acidic nature of lemons. In its natural or raw form, lemon is highly acidic with a pH of 2.0. But, when we consume lemon juice, it becomes fairly alkaline once it metabolizes in our body. In fact, after metabolism, the pH scale of lemon reaches to approximately 7. 

Not to mention, we all know how good lemons to our health care. They are very helpful in the digestion process, prevention of kidney stones, reduce the chances of cancer, and improve heart health.

Melons

melon halves

With a pH scale of 6.0 to 6.7, melons are one of those medium to high alkaline fruits, which are very nutritious and readily available. The best way to consume melons is to add them to your breakfast.  They are very helpful in reducing acid reflux as well. Melons are highly enriched with magnesium, which is commonly known for reducing stomach acidity. As mentioned above, using them in the morning is good for your health.

Cantaloupe 

Juicy slice cantaloupe melon

Known with several names such as sweet melon, rock melon, and spanspek, cantaloupe is a high alkaline fruit with a pH scale of 6.17 to 7.13. Cantaloupes are one of those alkaline fruits which are simply “loaded” with nutritious elements. Cantaloupes are rich in antioxidants such as choline, lutein, zeaxanthin, vitamin c, beta carotene, and selenium. 

Apart from that, they are also a rich source of fiber, potassium, iron, zinc, magnesium, potassium, fluoride, sodium, phosphorus, vitamin k, vitamin a, and vitamin E. Cantaloupes are good for your hair and skin, help in digestion, reduce the chances of cancer, help in regulating the blood pressure, and helps in prevention of asthma development.

Dates

Dates in bowl.

Dates are one of the highly alkaline fruits with a pH level of 6.5 to 8.5, and it is needless to say that dates have “unlimited” benefits literally. Dates are a traditional fruit in the Middle East and surrounding countries. Dates are a rich source of vitamin B6, iron, magnesium, manganese, copper, potassium, protein, and fiber. 

Moreover, dates are rich in antioxidants such as phenolic acid, carotenoids, and flavonoids. They are very effective in reducing the risk of diabetes, heart diseases, and cancer. Also, dates have proved to be useful in promoting brain health as well. 

Dates are also rich in minerals such as calcium, potassium, phosphorus, and magnesium, and they are beneficial for bone health. Furthermore, dates have proved to be effective for pregnant women in late-term labor. Without any doubt, dates are one of the best alkaline fruits, and they are available almost throughout the year. 

About the Author

Lori Bogedin is a health and wellness writer and editor of TwigsCafe. com. She is in the restaurant business since 1999. In 2016 she was named one of the “Top Women in Business” by Northeastern Pennsylvania Business Journal.

Bananas and broccoli – a source of folic acid

“Eat more fruit, you need vitamins now!” – such a phrase is almost always met (and escorted) a pregnant woman, wherever she comes and wherever she leaves. It is clear that sometimes you want to feed all these vitamins to someone who said this learned phrase, and then see how he will feel after so many apples and oranges eaten. But in any case, every woman understands (even feels) that during pregnancy it is necessary to replenish the supply of vitamins, which are actively spent on the development of the baby and maintaining the well-being of his mother.Separately, I would like to talk about folic acid (vitamin B9). Why is this acid needed at all?

Folic acid is involved in the processes associated with cell division and growth, is involved in the synthesis of hemoglobin, so it is obvious that it is during pregnancy that it is very important to maintain normal levels of this vitamin. This is especially important in the first trimester of pregnancy, when the basic structures of the fetal nervous system are formed, the correct laying of which is largely provided by folic acid.Folic acid is necessary for the development of all organs and tissues, the normal development of the embryo, and the processes of hematopoiesis. She takes part in the formation of all blood cells. Getting the mother-to-be gets the required amount of folic acid daily for another 3 or 4 months before the start of pregnancy, this helps to reduce the risk of defects in the fetus that form in the early stages of development.

Also, folic acid takes an active part in raising the mood, because it is she who helps to produce the hormones serotonin and norepinephrine.But a good mood for a pregnant woman is the key to success. So if the expectant mother is sad, give her an orange (it contains folic acid), it should help!

Folic acid does not accumulate in the body, therefore it is impossible to gorge on foods containing this acid “in reserve”, no matter how much you want. But in any case, it is much more pleasant to get this vitamin better with food, and not take it in pill form. By the way, with good intestinal microflora, folic acid can be synthesized there.High levels of folic acid are found in asparagus, avocados, bananas, black beans, broccoli, egg yolks, buckwheat and oatmeal, wholemeal bread, green beans, leafy green vegetables, lentils, liver, oranges and other citrus fruits, as well as their juices. in spinach, strawberries, tuna, wheat germ, and yogurt. As you can see, this vitamin can be obtained with a fairly varied diet, so if you feel that little by little green beans are beginning to get bored, then feel free to switch to bananas or oranges (after all, orange is more fun).But the main thing is without fanaticism, the need of a pregnant woman for folic acid is limited to 400-600 mgq per day. A breakfast of one cup of fortified cereal with milk and a glass of orange juice provides half of the daily folate requirement.

No matter how much you want to forget about the consequences of folic acid deficiency during pregnancy, this is still not worth doing. So, with a significant deficiency of folic acid, the formation of neural tube defects, hydrocephalus, anencephaly (absence of the brain), cerebral hernias is possible, the risk of delayed mental development of the child increases.Folic acid deficiency also plays a huge role during pregnancy, since at this time not only the organs and tissues of the fetus are formed, but also tissues of the placenta, as well as new vessels in the uterus. With a lack of folic acid, this process can be disrupted, which increases the likelihood of premature termination of pregnancy.

Every expectant mother knows that during pregnancy, hemoglobin is very often lowered, so our valiant doctors in antenatal clinics do not hesitate for a minute to prescribe iron-containing preparations to avoid anemia, but … there is one small “but”, not only is involved in the structure of hemoglobin cells iron.And what else? Of course, folic acid! Therefore, before conscientiously following all the prescriptions of doctors and selflessly eating iron preparations in packages, take a blood test and find out exactly what is the root cause of the problem.

After the above, you want to immediately run to the pharmacy and buy more folic acid tablets, but you cannot panic, because there is also hypervitaminosis. For example, long-term use of large doses of folic acid is not recommended due to the potential for reduced blood levels of vitamin B12.The conclusion from all of the above is very simple: the main thing for a baby, from the first days of pregnancy, and maybe even earlier, is care. Take care of your health, the health of your baby, eat right and enjoy everything that is happening now in your life. And do not be very offended by everyone who likes to repeat: “Eat more fruit, you need vitamins now!”, Maybe they really want to be useful, even with this advice.

Bananas: a useful herb or a terrible poison? The dietitian doctor answers

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Bananas: a useful herb or a terrible poison? Nutritionist answers

Bananas: a useful herb or a terrible poison? Nutritionist answers – RIA Novosti Sport, 09/14/2021

Bananas: a useful herb or a terrible poison? Nutritionist answers

Why are bananas useful and who should not eat them? Nutritionist Tatyana Razumovskaya tells RIA Novosti about this. RIA Novosti Sport, 14.09.2021

2020-11-25T07: 00

2020-11-25T07: 00

2021-09-14T13: 24

health

food

health

bananas

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Why are bananas useful and who should not eat them? Tatiana Razumovskaya, a nutritionist, tells RIA Novosti. How a banana “conquered” the whole world Banana is a herb, not a tree. In two years, the plant reaches an average of three to four meters and brings up to 500 bananas during this time. Then the trunk is cut off, and young shoots grow in its place. About 85% of all bananas on the world market are from Latin America and the Caribbean: most bananas are imported to Russia from Ecuador (according to Rusprodsoyuz, in 2019, 1.5 million tons were delivered to the country) . ..In India, bananas were known even before our era – this product is no less ancient than rice. However, they appeared in Europe only in the XX century – when cargo ships – “banana carriers” with shelves, where the required temperature is maintained at about 12 degrees, were launched. If it decreases to ten degrees, then the ripening process will be disrupted. Bananas are a source of potassium (about 350 milligrams per 100 grams), which is needed for muscle and heart function. An adult needs two to four grams of this trace element per day.If the child lacks potassium, dystrophy may develop (for prevention, you need 16-30 milligrams per kilogram of body weight per day). The banana contains magnesium (42 milligrams per 100 grams), which is responsible for more than 300 chemical reactions in the body, for example, for a stable blood sugar level and a normal heart rate. Banana contains tryptophan: an amino acid that is converted in the body into the joy hormone “serotonin”. “Serotonin is responsible not only for mood, but also for sleep, appetite, how blood clots,” says nutritionist Tatyana Razumovskaya. What vitamins are in banana? Banana is a storehouse of C (in 100 grams, 12% of the daily requirement), which works for immunity, allows the absorption of iron and is responsible for healthy skin. It contains a lot of vitamin B6, or pyridoxine (20% of the daily requirement in 100 grams), necessary for the normal functioning of the nervous system. Calorie content of bananas The weight of a banana without peel is on average 150 grams. An unripe fruit contains about 120 calories, and an overripe fruit contains about 180. Carbohydrates in a banana, and therefore its calorie content, increase sharply as it ripens: if a green banana has a lot of starch, then a yellow one contains sugar.One banana provides energy for an hour of strength training or hard physical work. If the fruit is dried, the calorie content of the banana will increase fivefold. How they are used in medicine Bananas are suitable for those with gastritis: they reduce the acidity of the stomach and do not cause heartburn. They are hypoallergenic, so they can be used as complementary foods for children. “The fruit contains pectin and fiber and therefore improves digestion, but only under one condition – if you eat no more than two bananas a day,” says the nutritionist.How they are used in cooking Banana muffins, cookies, pudding, finally, banana in chocolate is known to everyone. “However, the benefits of a banana will be maximum in a smoothie. For example, you can mix its pulp with milk (it is also rich in tryptophan and has a positive effect on mood), pineapple. Oatmeal or semolina with a banana would be a good breakfast option,” the nutritionist recommends. Bananas are Dangerous: Green unripe bananas are high in sodium and thus can act as a diuretic. “Ripe ones have a laxative effect, so bananas are likely to be harmful during bowel disorders or acute gastrointestinal diseases.They can cause bloating or flatulence, “explains Tatiana Razumovskaya.

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Why are bananas useful and who should not eat them? Nutritionist Tatyana Razumovskaya tells RIA Novosti about this.

How the banana “conquered” the whole world

Banana is a grass, not a tree. In two years, the plant reaches an average of three to four meters and brings up to 500 bananas during this time. Then the trunk is cut off, and young shoots grow in its place.

About 85% of all bananas on the world market are from Latin America and the Caribbean: most of all bananas are imported to Russia from Ecuador (according to Rusprodsoyuz, in 2019, one and a half million tons were delivered to the country).

In India, bananas were known even before our era – this product is no less ancient than rice. However, they appeared in Europe only in the XX century – when cargo ships – “banana carriers” with shelves, where the required temperature is maintained at about 12 degrees, were launched. If it decreases to ten degrees, then the ripening process will be disrupted.

23 November 2020, 06:00 What foods contain more vitamin C than lemon? Nutritionist answers

Why bananas are useful

Bananas are a source of potassium (about 350 milligrams per 100 grams), which is needed for the muscles and heart to work. An adult needs two to four grams of this trace element per day. If the child does not have enough potassium, dystrophy may develop (for prevention, 16-30 milligrams per kilogram of body weight per day are needed).

Banana contains magnesium (42 milligrams per 100 grams), which is responsible for more than 300 chemical reactions in the body, such as stable blood sugar and normal heart rate.

Banana contains tryptophan: an amino acid that is converted in the body into the joy hormone “serotonin”. “Serotonin is responsible not only for mood, but also for sleep, appetite, how blood clots,” says nutritionist Tatyana Razumovskaya.

What vitamins are in a banana? Banana is a storehouse of C (in 100 grams, 12% of the daily requirement), which works for immunity, allows the absorption of iron and is responsible for healthy skin. It contains a lot of vitamin B6, or pyridoxine (20% of the daily requirement in 100 grams), which is necessary for the normal functioning of the nervous system.

Calorie content of bananas

The weight of a banana without peel is an average of 150 grams. An unripe fruit contains about 120 calories, and an overripe fruit contains about 180. Carbohydrates in a banana, and therefore its calorie content, increase sharply as it ripens: if a green banana has a lot of starch, then a yellow one contains sugar.

One banana provides energy for an hour of strength training or hard physical work. If the fruit is dried, the calorie content of the banana will increase fivefold.

How they are used in medicine

Bananas are suitable for those with gastritis: they reduce the acidity of the stomach and do not cause heartburn.They are hypoallergenic, so they can be used as complementary foods for children. “The fruit contains pectin and fiber and therefore improves digestion, but only under one condition – if you eat no more than two bananas a day,” says the nutritionist.

November 4, 2020, 12:35 p.m. LIEWhy can you eat at night? Nutritionist answers

How they are used in cooking

Banana muffins, cookies, pudding, finally, banana in chocolate is known to everyone. “However, the benefits of banana will be maximized in smoothies.For example, you can mix its pulp with milk (it is also rich in tryptophan and has a positive effect on mood), pineapple. A good option for breakfast would be oatmeal or semolina with a banana “, – the nutritionist recommends. bananas are more likely to be harmful during bowel or gastrointestinal disorders.They can cause bloating or flatulence “, – explains Tatyana Razumovskaya.

What vitamins are in banana – composition and useful properties, application in medicine and dietetics

5

(1)

Banana is a hearty and healthy fruit. It provides the body nutrients and replenishes energy deficit.Daily consumption of fruits, taking into account which vitamins prevail in banana, stimulates the digestive system, strengthens the health of the heart and blood vessels, increases physical and mental activity.

  • Useful properties of bananas
      For women
  • For men
  • For children
  • Healing properties of bananas
  • Use of bananas in medicine
      Drinks and infusions
  • Peel
  • In folk
  • In oriental
  • The benefits and use of bananas in cosmetology
  • Non-traditional uses of the fruit
  • How to choose and store bananas
  • Harm and contraindications
  • Interesting facts about bananas
      Banana signs
  • Eating bananas increases physical activity.

    History of the plant

    The Malay Archipelago, islands located between Australia and Southeast Asia, are considered the birthplace of the banana family. The first mentions of the plant are found in the ancient Indian texts of the Ramayana and Rig Veda, written more than 1000 years BC. NS. From Asia, Arab traders brought bananas to Africa, where they easily acclimatized and spread widely.

    The plant got into the New World at the beginning of the 16th century. thanks to the Franciscan monk Thomas de Berlanga, the future Archbishop of Panama.By the end of the XVI century. fruits have already taken root in Central America.

    Lorenzo Baker and Minor Keith popularized the banana in the United States by solving the problem of transporting fruits from the tropics. At the beginning of the XX century. exotic fruits have reached Europe.

    In the last decade, bananas have been in 12th place in terms of the number of crops among plant crops.

    Biochemical composition of bananas

    Chemical composition of fruit pulp:

    1. Water – 75%.
    2. Sugar – 15-25%.Due to the high content of mono- and disaccharides, banana quickly saturates and serves as a source of energy.
    3. Starch – 1.6%.
    4. Fiber – 1%.
    5. Essential oil – 0.3-0.6%.
    6. Pectins – 0.5%.
    7. Organic acids – 0.4%.
    8. Enzymes: amylase, maltase.
    9. Amino acids. Tryptophan stimulates the production of serotonin, which is called the “happiness hormone”. Methionine and lysine strengthen the immune system.
    10. Vitamins. Most of all in the fruits of vitamin C (ascorbic acid), B7 (biotin), B6 ​​(pyridoxine).
    11. Minerals. Fruits are high in potassium, silicon, magnesium and manganese.

    Vitamins

    Composition of banana pulp:

    0.3244%

    Vitamin name Amount per 100 g% of daily intake Functions
    B6, pyridoxine Calms the nerves, reduces stress, prevents depressive disorders.
    C, ascorbic acid 10 mg 11% Powerful antioxidant that slows down aging.Normalizes blood clotting, tones up the walls of blood vessels, reduces symptoms of inflammation and allergies.
    H (B7), biotin 4 μg 8% Responsible for carbohydrate metabolism, normalizes blood glucose levels. Promotes healthy skin, hair and nails.
    B5, pantothenic acid 0.25 mg 5% Regulates the nervous system, increases brain activity. Improves the condition of the epidermis and mucous membranes, accelerates wound healing.
    PP (B3), nicotinic acid 0.9 mg 4.5% Participates in the synthesis of protein, fats, cholesterol.

    Vitamins A (retinol), E (tocopherol), K, B1, B2, B4, B9 are contained in insignificant quantities (less than 3% of the daily intake).

    Minerals and vitamins contained in banana.

    Macro and microelements

    Minerals in banana:

    %

    Supports health of hair, skin, nails, bones.Promotes the removal of toxins from cells, slows down aging.

    Element Content in 100 g% of daily intake Functions
    Silicon 77 mg
    Potassium 348 mg 14% Normalizes water and acid-base balance. Improves the functioning of the heart and blood vessels, regulates blood pressure. Relieves muscle spasms, cramps.
    Manganese 0.27 mg 13.5% Participates in fat metabolism, cholesterol synthesis. Influences the construction of bone and connective tissue.
    Magnesium 42 mg 10% Promotes energy production, activation of amino acids, transmission of nerve signals, glucose metabolism.
    Copper 78 μg 8% Supports red blood cell synthesis. It is a component of nerve fibers.
    Molybdenum 2.7 μg 4% Improves metabolic processes in the liver, prevents gout.
    P (Phosphorus) 28 mg 3.5% Strengthens bones and teeth.
    Iron 0.6 mg 3.5% Participates in the synthesis of hemoglobin, immune cells.
    Sodium 31 mg 2.5% Regulates the balance of water in the body. Helps muscles to contract.

    In small quantities (less than 2% of the daily value), the fruit contains chlorine, selenium, zinc, calcium, fluorine, chromium, iodine.

    Nutritional value

    The calorie content of a banana is 96 kcal. The fruit is nutritious and often used as a snack. The pulp of the fruit is low in protein (1.5 g) and fat (0.5 g), but there are enough carbohydrates (21 g).The fruit belongs to foods with an average glycemic index, depending on ripeness, this figure ranges from 40 to 60 units.

    Caloric content of the fetus.

    Consumption rate

    Adding 1-2 bananas a day to the diet will improve health, reduce the risk of heart and gastrointestinal diseases, speed up metabolism and lift mood. The fruit should be included in the diet of people with potassium deficiency.

    Banana: chemical composition, calorie content, useful properties

    Banana is the name of a perennial herb from the Banana family and its many fruits.Bananas are considered one of the most ancient plants cultivated by mankind. Their homeland is the tropical forests of Southeast Asia and, in particular, the islands of the Malay Archipelago.

    There are more than 500 varieties of bananas in total, but most of them are not eaten. Edible varieties are conventionally divided into two main groups: dessert and plantain. Dessert bananas are eaten raw or dried. These are the bananas that are brought to our country. The second type – plantains – are the “second” bread for the inhabitants of the tropics.They have a tough and unsweetened starchy flesh, so they are fried or boiled before eating. And raw plantains are used for livestock feed.

    Banana is the fourth most popular cultivation after rice, wheat, corn. The first place in its “production” is given to India. In some countries, the cuisine is practically based on the use of bananas, and not only their fruits, but also leaves. Pads and rafts are made from its stems, banana peel is used as a dye and for making soap, banana leaves are used for roofing, textile banana (its false stem) is used for fiber, etc.But the most interesting thing is that banana (all its parts) is used for medical and cosmetic purposes.

    Chemical composition banana

    The table shows the average values ​​(nutrients, vitamins, trace elements) per 100 grams of product.

    9024.5

    2.0243

    2.0243

    0.03244

    0.03244

    9024

    3 Vitamin 90.0

    243 9024 9025

    Nutritional value
    Caloric content of banana 89.3 kcal
    Carbohydrates 21.0 gr
    g
    Proteins 1.5 g
    Water 74.0 g
    Mono- and disaccharides 19.0 19.0 g
    Dietary fiber 1.7 g
    Organic acids 0.4 g
    Ash 0.9 g
    Vitamins
    Vitamin A 0.1 mg
    Vitamin B1 0.04 mg mg Vitamin B3 0.3 mg
    Vitamin B6 0.4 mg
    Vitamin B9 10.0 μg
    mg
    Vitamin E 0.4 mg
    Vitamin PP 0.6 mg
    Macronutrients / Trace elements
    Potassium 348.0 mg
    Calcium 8.0 mg
    Magnesium 42.0 mg
    Sodium

    .0 mg
    Phosphorus 28.0 mg
    Zinc 0.1 mg
    Copper 0.16 mg

    The useful property of a banana for our intestines in terms of the level of benefit is as follows: the most useful are green bananas, then yellow ones, and with specks they remain in third place.

    So, what is banana good for? The following are the properties of a banana and how to use this fruit:

    Bananas, when combined with fiber, contain 3 types of natural sugars – glucose, sucrose and fructose. Studies have shown that just two bananas provide the body with enough energy for a 90 minute workout. In addition, these fruits help in the prevention and fight against certain diseases, so doctors recommend that you definitely include them in your diet.

    The composition of bananas is rich in vitamin B, which has a calming effect on the nervous system.

    Banana fruit contains a huge amount of iron, so it contributes to the production of hemoglobin in the blood.

    Bananas contain an essential amino acid – tryptophan, which is converted by the body into the well-known “hormone of happiness” – serotonin. Exercise is also an effective tool in the fight against depression.

    The composition of this unique exotic fruit is rich in potassium. Plus, bananas are almost salt-free, making them ideal for lowering blood pressure.

    Bananas are the only fruit that never, under any circumstances, causes an allergic reaction in infants.

    Bananas also help with mosquito bites and in order for the itching from the bite to go away, you just need to rub the affected area with the inside of the banana peel.

    Bananas contain a lot of fiber, so these fruits are an essential part of the diet of patients who suffer from intestinal problems.

    Benefits of bananas in their content of vitamins B12 and B6, magnesium and potassium, which are effective helpers for the body in getting rid of nicotine addiction.

    Potassium is a vital element that helps to stabilize the heart rate, normalize water balance and supply oxygen to the brain. Because the body’s potassium levels drop significantly under stress, bananas can help bring it back to normal.

    Banana brings cosmetic benefits in getting rid of warts. We take a piece of banana peel, put it on the inside of the wart and fix it with a plaster. We do this as long and often as possible until the wart disappears.

    And now a few words about contraindications for taking banana :

    Do not eat bananas shortly before going to bed. Bananas take a long time to digest and impede the flow of bile, which can cause fermentation in the stomach and disrupt intestinal function.

    Bananas cannot be combined with sauerkraut and milk. Nutritionists even recommend eating bananas between meals and not drinking water.

    Bananas are also contraindicated:

    • with increased acidity of gastric juice
    • with thrombophlebitis of varying degrees of complexity
    • with a tendency to gain weight and obesity (banana calories: 89.3 kcal / 100 g)
    • Ripe bananas should not be eaten for diabetes, but this restriction does not apply to unripe fruits

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    Useful properties of bananas

    Benefits of fruits for health:

    1. Improve the functioning of the digestive tract.The pulp of the fruit envelops the walls of the stomach, promotes healing of ulcers, and reduces inflammation. Bananas have an antacid effect – they lower acidity and prevent heartburn.
    2. Normalize pressure. Fruits contain a lot of potassium, which improves the condition of blood vessels and reduces the risk of developing heart pathologies. Iron and magnesium regulate hemoglobin levels.
    3. Stimulates the brain. The increased content of potassium and phosphorus improves attention, mental activity, cognitive abilities.
    4. Calms the nerves. Vitamin B6 helps to cope with stress, improves mood, and fights symptoms of mild depressive disorders.
    5. Restores energy resources. The carbohydrates contained in the pulp are quickly absorbed and provide enough strength for physical exertion.
    6. Improves appearance. Biotin supports healthy skin, hair and nails. Vitamins C and E are antioxidants, slow down the aging process and strengthen the immune system.

    For women

    The fruit pulp contains a lot of vitamin B6, which normalizes estrogen levels.The use of bananas improves the psycho-emotional state in menopause and premenstrual syndrome, has a positive effect on women taking birth control pills.

    Folic acid (B9) contained in the fruit is needed for the normal development and growth of the fetus during pregnancy.

    Banana is also used as a component of home facials.

    The biotin contained in banana improves the condition of the skin and hair.

    For men

    The increased level of carbohydrates helps to restore energy resources before strenuous physical activity.Potassium relieves muscle spasms and prevents cramps. Fruit is often included in vitamin and protein shakes for athletes.

    Bananas are included in protein shakes for athletes.

    For children

    Fruit pulp is added as a complementary food to a child’s diet from 8-9 months. Start with small portions (0.5-1 tsp), gradually increase to 100-150 g. Fruit is important for the growth and development of the child’s body.

    Beneficial substances in the pulp of the fruit accelerate metabolism, strengthen immunity, improve the processes of hematopoiesis, increase the cognitive activity of the brain.

    How is banana good for health?

    Banana is a very healthy fruit that can provide tangible help in the fight against certain diseases and be very useful for the human body as a whole. Banana is considered an ideal snack food and is loved by many athletes.

    And this is despite the fact that the fruit contains a large amount of carbohydrates: a high percentage of fiber in the composition ensures fast removal of hunger, and vegetable carbohydrates are quickly absorbed and energize for a long time.

    In addition, the high content of vitamins and microelements ensures the normal course of important processes in the body, for example, the restoration of water balance. And this is with a relatively low calorie content (in 100 g of banana – about 90 kcal).

    The benefits of green bananas

    Green (pale yellow with a greenish tinge) fruits have a lower glycemic index. The high percentage of starch in the green fruit, which has not had time to be converted into sugar, contributes to quick satiety.And the sodium present in the green fruit helps to maintain the water-salt balance in the body. It is the unripe fruit that prevents the excretion of calcium from the human body, which can be provoked by the abuse of coffee, tea, and carbonated water.

    The benefits of dried bananas

    Dried bananas are higher in calories than fresh ones (about 390 kcal per 100g): a large amount of sugar in their composition limits the rate of their consumption. However, this product is very useful for digestion and heart function, it has a positive effect on the functioning of the brain and gastrointestinal tract.In addition, the entire vitamin and mineral “complex” is preserved after drying.

    Which bananas are healthier: green or yellow?

    Despite the fact that ripe bananas are rich in nutrients and compounds and have a pleasant sweetish taste, green fruits are a good alternative for those who are sensitive to the amount of absorbed kilocalories: the latter are less calories.

    However, the taste characteristics of the fruit are not for everybody: green banana has a tart taste with bitter notes.The eaten fruit will cause a feeling of toughness in the mouth.

    Bananas for the liver

    Tropical fruit has a positive effect on the functioning of the liver:

    • Promotes the outflow of bile, thereby facilitating digestion.
    • Do not burden the organ with unnecessary toxins.
    • Improves the functioning of the entire excretory system.

    Bananas for the heart

    This fruit is simply necessary for those who experience problems with the cardiovascular system, since it contains potassium, magnesium, sodium, iron – one of the important trace elements that ensure the normal functioning of the heart.These elements reduce the risk of developing a number of heart diseases: stroke, hypertension, atherosclerosis, tachycardia, and cardiovascular failure. The first positive effect will be noticeable after two weeks of regular consumption of fruits.

    Bananas for blood

    A number of trace elements and vitamins that make up the banana help to normalize the blood composition and maintain it in normal conditions. So iron normalizes the state of hemoglobin in the blood, vitamin B6 promotes the production of lymphocytes, which has a positive effect on the entire blood circulation process.Eating bananas regularly can protect a person from developing blood diseases such as anemia.

    The effect of bananas on stool

    Due to the high content of pectins and fiber, ripe bananas help to improve intestinal motility, which allows accelerating the natural process of defecation. As a result of the contraction of the rectum, stagnant feces are pushed outward, which helps to cleanse the intestines of toxins and toxins. Thus, bananas can have a mild laxative effect, but with one caveat: no more than 3 of them can be eaten during the day, otherwise diarrhea may develop.

    Medicinal properties of bananas

    The flowers of the plant are used as a remedy for bronchitis, dysentery, stomach and duodenal ulcers. The juice will help to cope with neuroses and epilepsy, reduce bleeding, relieve indigestion.

    Leaves of young plants are used in the healing of wounds, burns, bites.

    Banana roots are used for dysentery and indigestion. The fruits will help normalize blood pressure, cure anemia, heartburn, depression.

    Bananas contain the hormone of joy and help with depression.

    The use of bananas in medicine

    In scientific medicine, fruits are recommended for dietary nutrition in case of peptic ulcer or colitis. Thanks to flavonoids, the pulp protects the stomach lining. Tropical fruits should be added to the diet in the treatment of atherosclerosis and hypertension. The pulp extract has hypoglycemic properties.

    Drinks and infusions

    Chocolate-banana mixture will help with dry cough and sore throat.Vitamin drink with honey and banana is drunk to relieve bronchitis symptoms.

    Alcohol tincture on the peel is used externally as an anti-inflammatory agent for the treatment of rheumatism and arthritis.

    Milk-based fruit cocktail is considered an effective anti-hangover medicine.

    Alcohol tincture for the treatment of rheumatism.

    Peel

    Banana peel relieves painful symptoms in case of damage to the epidermis. The shell of the fruit is used for application in the treatment of bruises, burns, abrasions, etc.

    Substances contained on the inner side of the peel stop bleeding, relieve inflammation, and reduce pain. Banana shells are also used to treat warts.

    In folk medicine

    Traditional medicine offers the following recipes:

    1. For relieving stomach pain. 10 minutes before the main meal, peel the fruit, mash with a fork and eat the resulting puree. Eases ulcer pain, restores the mucous membranes of the digestive tract, neutralizes excess acidity.
    2. Choleretic agent. Half an hour after breakfast, eat 1 unripe fruit. Used for liver and kidney diseases.
    3. For relieving joint and muscle pain. Chopped peel of 6-8 bananas is poured with vodka and left in a dark cool room for 2 weeks. Sore spots are rubbed with tincture 5-6 times a day.

    Bananas for stomach ulcers.

    In the east

    In Indian folk medicine, the juice of the stems, fruits and flowers are used in the treatment of dysentery, and are also used as a sedative and anticonvulsant in epilepsy and neuroses.

    The ancient medical system of Ayurveda attributes to the tropical fruit the ability to maintain vitality and cope with nervous disorders.

    Banana affects 3 fundamental energies (doshas): decreases Pitta and Kapha and increases Vata.

    Ayurveda recipes:

    1. For chronic bronchial asthma. For treatment, the fruit is stuffed with 7 dried clove buds and left overnight. An hour before breakfast, a banana with spices is eaten, and a glass of hot sweetened water is drunk before a meal.
    2. For dry cough. To relieve symptoms 2-3 times a day, you should eat a fruit with honey and a pinch of ground black pepper.
    3. For migraine. As a medicine, a mixture of crushed fruit with date sugar and cardamom is taken.

    What are the general health benefits of bananas?

    The benefits of bananas for the body are very great.

    There are many reasons why bananas should be eaten regularly, namely:

    • These fruits are natural antidepressants.After eating them, the body begins to produce serotonin. It’s no secret that this hormone is otherwise called the hormone of happiness. Therefore, bananas are good for people who are prone to depression and stress every day.
    • Banana saves you quickly, so you can safely use it as a tasty and healthy snack between meals.
    • Bananas promote the speedy elimination of alcohol breakdown products from the body. Therefore, they can be consumed after a feast and during the holidays.
    • Bananas saturate the body with potassium, vitamins B and C. All these substances have a positive effect on the functioning of the cardiovascular system.
    • Banana pulp contains substances that can improve memory and improve performance.
    • Bananas are high in fiber, but soft and not irritating to the lining of the stomach and intestines. Therefore, bananas can be used even for diseases of the digestive system, for example, with gastritis.
    • Bananas contain a healthy amino acid called tryptophan.It works like a natural sleeping pill. Therefore, bananas should be eaten by people prone to insomnia.
    • Bananas are good for diarrhea. These fruits are high in potassium, which helps replenish electrolyte stores. At the same time, the pulp of the fruit will not irritate the already inflamed intestines, and the pectin fibers quickly absorb moisture, which helps to reduce the bubbling processes in the intestines. Moreover, banana is the only fruit that doctors are allowed to eat for diarrhea.
    • Bananas are good for people with stomach ulcers. The fruits contain substances that contribute to the destruction of bacteria that provoke ulceration of the mucous membrane of the digestive system. In addition, the fruit stimulates the production of mucus, which is necessary to coat the ulcer.
    • Banana is a product that quickly replenishes energy losses. Therefore, the fruits must be consumed by people engaged in hard physical labor.
    • Bananas are an excellent remedy for constipation.They promote gentle bowel cleansing due to their high content of pectin, fiber and dietary fiber. Together, these substances enhance intestinal motility, but they do it gently and imperceptibly.
    • Bananas should be included in your diet for people with flatulence and bloating.
    • Bananas act as natural probiotics as they create a breeding ground for beneficial bacteria in the intestines.
    • Bananas help to balance hormonal levels, which is especially important for women during PMS.
    • With the help of bananas, you can increase the level of hemoglobin in the blood, as this fruit contains an impressive amount of iron.
    • Bananas, due to their unique composition, help to strengthen the general immunity of the body.
    • It is useful to eat them for people with high blood pressure, as these fruits normalize the water-salt balance in the body, simultaneously saturating it with potassium and magnesium. Therefore, the inclusion of bananas in the menu is an excellent prevention of hypertensive crisis and other diseases that occur at the peak of high blood pressure.
    • Bananas are excellent anti-smoking helpers. Recent research suggests that incorporating bananas into your daily diet can help you overcome the addiction barrier faster.

    Application in dietetics

    The BRAT diet based on bananas, rice, apples and toast is recommended for people with chronic diarrhea, vomiting, gastroenteritis. These foods are easy to digest and improve gastrointestinal function. They eat this way for less than a day, supplement the diet with a sufficient amount of liquid.

    Banana diet for weight loss adhere to no longer than 3 days due to the sharp load on the body.

    Up to 1.5 kg of fruit are eaten during the day. In addition to the pulp of the fruit, they drink water and tea. To consolidate the result, it is recommended to add 1-2 fruits to the daily diet for 2-3 weeks.

    Banana Diet.

    What should not be eaten with high hemoglobin?

    A diet with high hemoglobin does not imply serious dietary restrictions, the diet must remain complete, include proteins, carbohydrates, fats, vitamins and minerals.It is necessary to abandon foods containing iron in an easily assimilated form, as well as eat foods that slow down its absorption in the gastrointestinal tract.

    Red meat (beef, veal, lamb, pork), as well as offal (liver, kidneys, lungs, beef tongue, etc.) are excluded from the diet. A fairly large amount of iron is found in fish, but you should refuse dishes from fish that have not undergone heat treatment (smoked, dried, dried fish, sushi), as well as caviar.Seafood such as mussels, scallops, shrimps, crabs, seaweed, and egg yolk should also be removed from the diet, since they are very rich in iron.

    You will also have to give up sunflower and pumpkin seeds, mushrooms, some vegetables (beets, spinach, rhubarb, radishes, red bell peppers, beans), fruits (pomegranate, figs, persimmons, apples, citrus fruits), herbs and berries (black currants , raspberries, cherries, rose hips, etc.). In addition to the relatively high iron content of these foods, they are also high in vitamin C, which improves iron absorption.For the same reason, with increased hemoglobin in the blood, you should not drink freshly squeezed vegetable and fruit juices. From cereals, buckwheat, oatmeal and wheat should be abandoned.

    It is strictly forbidden to drink alcoholic beverages, they contribute to blood thickening and an increase in hemoglobin levels. Mineral waters should not be drunk either. It is also recommended to limit wheat bread, sweets, pastries, pastries, chocolate and cocoa.

    Benefits and application of bananas in cosmetology

    Banana extract is added to the care products, which has tonic and astringent properties.Aqueous extract from ripe fruits is included in face and body creams, tonics, lotions, milk, gels.

    Such cosmetics nourish the skin with useful substances, increase tone and elasticity, eliminate irritation and inflammation. Banana extract in shampoos and conditioners helps to detangle hair.

    At home, face masks are made from the pulp of the fruit, which nourish, soften and smooth the skin.

    Banana pulp face mask.

    Use for various diseases

    This product is known all over the world and many people love it not only for its taste, but also for its benefits in various diseases of the cardiovascular system.The positive effect is due to the presence of nutrients and minerals in the yellow fruit. The main ones include potassium and magnesium, which form the correct functioning of the heart muscles and affect a person’s blood pressure.

    With tachycardia

    Tachycardia means an increased number of heartbeats, more than 95 per minute. Bananas contain potassium, which affects the patient’s nervous tension and, accordingly, heart activity. The effect will be noticeable after the first two weeks of consuming the yellow fruit.

    With cardiovascular failure

    Heart failure is characterized by a pathological process in which the circulatory system is unable to supply all organs for their proper functioning. The main problems are sodium retention in the body and, as a result, edema on the face and limbs. Another trace element that is lacking in this ailment is potassium. Banana successfully copes with the problem of potassium deficiency and fills the body with vitamins, improving blood circulation.

    In atherosclerosis and hypertension

    In the presence of hypertension and atherosclerosis, bananas have a positive effect. It is recommended to allocate special fasting days for them. The fact is that these fruits help to strengthen the muscles of the heart, being a storehouse of potassium, and also have an effective effect on blood flow and normalization of pressure.

    Despite the potentially positive effects, for any of the above conditions, it is highly advisable to consult a doctor before making any changes to your diet.

    Unconventional use of the fruit

    In Africa, banana beer is prepared from ripe fruits, which was previously used as a ritual drink. In modern industrial production, fruit-based alcohol is made in Africa and Europe.

    In tropical countries, a special variety of peeled bananas are boiled with spices or fried in olive oil. The dish is served as a side dish.

    In the Philippine Islands, yellow banana ketchup is prepared, which was invented during World War II due to a lack of imported products.

    Fruit rind is used instead of shoe polish and tarnished silver polish.

    Fried bananas with cinnamon.

    How to choose and store bananas correctly

    When choosing fruits, be guided by the appearance:

    1. Color. Solid yellow fruits without black spots can be eaten immediately, darkened ones are best used for baking. If the tail is green, the banana will ripen in a few days.
    2. Form. A good fruit should be firm, smooth, and free from dents.Do not take fruits with cracks and damaged skin, bacteria and mold from the shelves can get into them.

    Store bananas in a dark place at a temperature not exceeding + 14 ° C. In the refrigerator, they quickly turn black.

    Bananas must be free of cracks or black spots.

    Rules for selection and use

    In order for a product to benefit the body, it is important to choose and use it correctly. Banana is a fruit from the tropics, it is brought from afar

    Therefore, it is better to take your time and choose quality fruits.They must be:

    1. clean, without traces of mold on the skin;
    2. with a bright yellow skin, greenish, yellow with dark spots, but not pale gray or blackened;
    3. should have a pleasant herbaceous odor;
    4. must not have cracks on the skin: through them foreign microorganisms can penetrate into the fetus.

    Nice-smelling fruits with a bright yellow skin with dark specks should be ideal. This is what ripe and healthy bananas look like.

    When buying yellow-green fruits, let them ripen at room temperature, never putting them in the refrigerator. Greenish ones are difficult to digest, will be poorly absorbed, causing gas formation. This is especially undesirable for pregnant women and those who have just undergone abdominal surgery.

    But overripe bananas are not useful for everyone: they cause constipation, so people with such a problem should not eat them.

    Ripe bananas are perfectly stored in the freezer without losing their taste and healing properties.Therefore, if you need to keep them at their peak of usefulness, you can peel them, cut them into circles and freeze them, using them later in desserts, smoothies and as an independent dish.

    Harm and contraindications

    Bananas are not recommended:

    1. For problems with blood vessels. Fruits thicken blood and lymph, increase their viscosity, and provoke the formation of blood clots.
    2. While taking medication. Tropical fruits reduce the absorption and effectiveness of broad-spectrum antibiotics.
    3. For bloating. Fruit is slowly digested and causes flatulence.
    4. For medical indications. Bananas are recommended to be excluded from the diet for people who adhere to diets for obesity and diabetes mellitus (tables No. 8, No. 9).

    Interesting facts about bananas

    The banana republic is a state with an underdeveloped economy, whose welfare depends on the export of the crop. First mentioned in the book O. Henry “Kings and Cabbage”.

    Banana equivalent is a nuclear physics term for measuring the radioactivity of isotopes.This amount of potassium-40 enters the body with 1 fruit.

    Andy Warhol painted a rotten banana on one of the most recognizable rock album covers. According to Rolling Stone magazine, this compilation of The Velvet Underground was ranked 13th on the list of the greatest musical compositions of all time.

    The Guinness Book defines the International Banana Museum in California as the largest collection dedicated to a single fruit. There are more than 17,000 items on display.

    In Nazi Germany in 1933there was an anti-banana campaign. Doctors were convinced of the usefulness of local plants and the dangers of imported products.

    Andy Warhol’s rock album featuring a banana.

    health benefits and harms

    Banana is one of the most popular and healthy fruits in the world. It is hearty, tasty and instantly energizes.

    When we eat bananas, we get vitamins C and E, as well as vitamin B6, which is responsible for maintaining blood glucose levels and helping to calm the nervous system.And thanks to the iron contained in bananas, you can raise the level of hemoglobin in the blood.

    If you still need reasons why you need to include bananas in your diet, read the list of health benefits below.

    Useful properties of bananas

    According to nutritionists, the chemical composition of bananas is so harmonious and balanced that it is difficult to repeat both in nature and in artificial conditions.

    Regular but moderate consumption of bananas will benefit your health, and here’s why:

    due to the content of potassium and magnesium, bananas have a positive effect on the state of the cardiovascular system, nourish and oxygenate the brain cells, normalize the water-salt balance;

    due to the same potassium and magnesium, actively using bananas, it is possible to quit smoking sooner; with the help of these microelements, the body more easily overcomes the so-called “dependence barrier”;

    due to the high content of B vitamins and tryptophans, bananas help to overcome nervous tension, relieve stress, suppress an outbreak of anger;

    1-2 bananas a day will provide an excellent mood, since the same tryptophans from bananas in the human body are converted into the hormone of joy serotonin;
    Due to its high iron content, banana is useful for the formation of hemoglobin in the blood;

    fiber in bananas helps to eliminate disturbances in the functioning of the gastrointestinal tract;

    bananas are recommended in the recovery period for lesions of the mucous membrane of the oral cavity and digestive tract;

    the content of natural sugars in a banana makes this fruit a source of quick energy, which means that a serving of bananas is indicated for increased fatigue and high physical and intellectual exertion;

    bananas are useful for the health and beauty of the skin, their pulp is often used as a basis for nourishing masks.

    Harm of bananas: who cannot eat them

    Bananas, unfortunately, are not among the fruits that are completely devoid of contraindications. Potential harm from overusing bananas includes:

    banana removes fluid from the body, promotes blood thickening;

    increase in blood viscosity with a subsequent decrease in blood flow to individual organs or parts of the body;

    the above fact is unfavorable for people with varicose veins and for men with erection problems;

    for similar reasons, it is undesirable to eat bananas for patients with thrombophlebitis, coronary heart disease and everyone else who has increased blood clotting;

    For some people, bananas can cause bloating, and therefore their use is not recommended for people with irritable bowel syndrome;

    bananas are not recommended for people with increased body weight, because they are high in calories; this fruit not so much needs to be excluded from the diet, but rather to use it to a minimum or in accordance with a diet developed by a physician.

    90,000 What vitamins are in banana? Calorie content of banana

    Bananas are among the highest calorie tropical fruits.

    100 g of fruit contains 90 calories. In addition, bananas contain enough antioxidants, minerals and vitamins to maintain good health.

    Banana fruit consists of soft, easily digestible fiber, with simple sugars – fructose and sucrose. Eaten banana quickly energizes the body and rejuvenates the body.For these qualities, they are widely used by athletes for quick replenishment of strength. Bananas are included in the menu, as a food supplement in the treatment of underweight.

    The banana fruit contains a large amount of assimilable dietary fiber to aid normal digestion.

    It contains a small amount of antioxidant flavonoids such as lutein, zeaxanthin, alpha and beta carotene, which slow down the aging process in the body. These compounds act as protective scavengers of free radicals and reactive oxygen species that are involved in the aging process and other painful manifestations.

    Recommendations on topic

    Bananas are a good source of vitamin B6 (pyridoxine), an essential vitamin from the B-complex, which has a positive effect in the treatment of neuritis and anemia. In addition, pyridoxine helps lower homocysteine ​​levels in the body – one of the causes of coronary heart disease and strokes.

    Banana fruits contain a sufficient amount of vitamin C (about 8.7 mg per 100 g). Eating foods rich in vitamin C helps the body develop resistance against infectious pathogens and free radicals.

    Fresh bananas provide the body with a sufficient amount of minerals such as copper, magnesium and manganese. Magnesium is essential for strengthening bones and protecting heart muscles. Manganese is used by the body as an antioxidant. Copper is essential in the production of red blood cells – red blood cells.

    Banana holds the record for potassium content among fruits. 100 grams of pulp contains 358 mg of potassium. Potassium is an essential component of cellular and near-cellular body fluids and helps control heart rate and blood pressure.

    Nutritional value of banana fruit pulp per 100 g

    • carbohydrates – 22.84 g
    • proteins – 1.09 g
    • fat – 0.33 g
    • dietary fiber – 2.6 g

    Energy value 90 Kcal per 100 g. This is a rather high figure for fruits, therefore, under certain conditions, there is a possibility of getting fat from bananas.

    Vitamins contained in 100 g of bananas

    • folate – 20 mcg
    • niacin – 0.665 mg
    • panthenic acid – 0.334 mg
    • pyridoxine – 0.367 mg
    • riboflavin – 0.073 mg
    • thiamine – 0.031 mg
    • vitamin A – 64 IU
    • vitamin C – 8.7 mg
    • vitamin E – 0.1 mg
    • vitamin K – 0.5 μg

    Chemical elements and minerals per 100 g of banana pulp

    • sodium – 1 mg
    • potassium – 358 mg
    • calcium – 5 mg
    • copper – 0.078 mg
    • iron – 0.26 mg
    • magnesium – 27 mg
    • manganese – 0.27 mg
    • phosphorus – 22 mg
    • selenium – 1.0 mcg
    • zinc – 0.15 mg
    • carotene-a – 25 mcg; carotene-b – 26 mcg; lutein-zeaxatin – 22 mcg

    Information provided is based on USDA (National Nutrient Content Database) data.

    90,000 What’s harmful in bananas. What are the benefits of bananas, which ones are healthier, and can there be any harm to the health of the body? Bananas against cough

    Good day, our dear guests and regular visitors of the blog! Bananas, despite the fact that they grow far from our country, are familiar to everyone – from small to large. It is a valuable food and forage crop with an interesting exotic aroma and taste with yellow, white, orange or creamy flesh.

    But not everyone knows the complete information about this plant, so it makes sense to reveal today the topic of what bananas are – the benefits and harms for the body that they possess.


    Bananas – composition and benefits

    This exotic fruit appeared in the Malay archipelago, related to the banana family. For food, you can use only ripe fruits, since unripe ones contain starch that is difficult to digest.

    The benefits of bananas for humans are explained by their specific composition. For example, despite the sweet taste, fruits are very rich in vitamin C, which protects against various viral infections. It also strengthens the walls of cells and blood vessels, helping to maintain youth and beauty for a long time.The list of useful substances consists of:

    1. Carotene (vitamin A), which normalizes vision, improves skin elasticity, strength of nails and hair. Its benefits extend to pregnant women as well as CVS. This vitamin also helps in the treatment of cancer.
    2. Thiamine, or vitamin B1, involved in carbohydrate absorption. It also contributes to the transmission of nerve impulses and the maintenance of the health of the skin.
    3. Vitamin B2, which helps to heal wounds and is beneficial for eyesight, as well as contributes to the efficient functioning of the digestive system.
    4. Vitamin PP (B3), which acts on the central nervous system and the brain, improving memory and concentration.
    5. Pyridoxine or vitamin B6, which, in addition to being beneficial for the nervous system and the brain, also helps the production of gastric juice. This element also has a diuretic property, which is used to relieve puffiness. Thanks to vitamin B6, the appearance of such a substance produced in the brain as serotonin is stimulated, which contributes to the emergence of positive feelings and emotions in the form of joy and pleasure.
    6. Folic acid (vitamin B9), useful for the female body.
    7. Vitamin E, which maintains the skin in good condition, filling it with elasticity and beauty.
    8. Inulin – a nutrient for “good” intestinal microflora. Inulin is produced industrially from banana fruits.

    But this is not the whole list of the constituent elements – bananas also contain trace elements, represented by potassium, magnesium and calcium.

    The fibrous structure of the fruit allows people with digestive ailments to eat it – even during periods of exacerbation.

    Bananas are even useful for gastritis due to the same soft starchy structure. Plus, unlike many other fruits, bananas do not contain a lot of organic acids that irritate the stomach wall.

    This fruit perfectly restores strength, due to the content of a large amount of sugar, which quickly enters the bloodstream. This property is successfully used by athletes at the end of the competition with just a couple of bananas.

    Green banana peel normalizes blood pressure, and the juice from the stems is used for epilepsy and hysteria.

    Banana pulp is an excellent smoothing, emollient and moisturizer suitable for absolutely any skin type. It is used to eliminate fine wrinkles, make the face soft and velvety, and relieve fatigue.

    About calorie content and glycemic index

    These indicators directly depend on the plant variety, ranging from 65 to 150 Kcal, 90% carbohydrates, 5 proteins and the same amount of fats.

    If we talk about the calorie content of one piece, then contrary to popular belief, bananas are not the most high-calorie product – only 90-100 calories per average banana.

    Therefore, a losing weight person may well eat them, even while on a diet. Moreover, there are banana fasting days. However, everything is good in moderation. If you eat a banana closer to the first half of the day, then why not.

    Sugar in banana 16%, and of natural origin, consisting of fructose, glucose and sucrose. This is what allows you to almost instantly fill the body with energy and vigor.

    If we talk about the glycemic index of the fetus, then it has indicators above average, equal to 60 units.But we are talking about ripe fruit. If the fruit is overripe, it has a higher GI, and a banana of the initial stage of maturity, on the contrary, will delight you with a lower glycemic index.

    Bananas – species

    There are a large number of bananas in nature, offering a range of colors from pale yellow to red, and sizes from 8 to 27 cm.

    All fruits are divided into 3 main types – decorative, dessert and plantano:

    • The first one cannot be eaten, they are grown for beauty, pleasing the eye with beautiful flowers.They are also used in industry to make textiles, ropes, fishing tackle and car pillows;
    • Dessert and plantano are edible, the only difference is that the former does not need to be thermally processed. But the second type is suitable for eating after pre-frying or boiling due to the insignificant amount of sugar in the composition. The taste of raw fruits is starchy and tough, resembling potatoes in taste.

    Each of these species has many subspecies, which will be difficult to list in one article, so I will tell you about the frequently used ones:

    There are about 500 varieties of bananas in the world, which are grown not only in Brazil, but also in India, Australia and the Caribbean islands.But, regardless of the type chosen, each of them has a lot of useful properties.

    Eating Bananas

    These delicious fruits can be eaten in many ways. Then I want to tell you about the properties of bananas:

    • Fresh use is preferable, which allows you to fill the body with the maximum amount of nutrients;
    • Dried fruit has a high calorie content – up to 364 per 100 g, having in its composition the whole group of vitamins B, as well as C, A, E, K and PP.The fruits are also rich in minerals – fluorine, selenium, iron, potassium, calcium, and so on.

    This allows it to be used to increase hemoglobin and improve bowel function. And natural sugar supplies the body with energy, energizing for the whole day. The immune system is strengthened and the complexion improves.

    • Banana chips are deep-fried, sun-dried or baked. Useful qualities from such cooking methods (with the exception of deep fat – it is, of course, harmful) do not deteriorate.So they can be used not only as culinary delights, but also for health purposes.

    One of the main advantages of such a dish is the large amount of fiber (8.7 g), which is about a third of the daily value. Dietary fiber relieves constipation, reduces bad cholesterol levels in the blood, normalizes sugar levels, and has a preventive effect on CVS and some types of cancer. Chips contain a lot of iron, which is useful for the process of hematopoiesis, enzymatic activity and energy supply.Potassium and sodium in the composition are involved in blood pressure control, transmission of nerve impulses, muscle contraction and maintenance of water-salt balance. If you are tormented by nausea with fatigue and constipation, then you need to eat such a dish every day that will relieve such unpleasant symptoms;

    • Bananas with milk are good for improving the taste of dietary dishes, which is used for weight loss (for example, recipes often combine dairy products and banana). And also this composition is used in sports nutrition.

    A rich set of useful elements of milk and bananas stimulates metabolic processes, eliminates excess fat and improves the appearance of the skin. With such a dish, you can get rid of the feeling of hunger and at the same time cleanse the intestines and the whole body from toxins and other harmful elements. Due to the large amount of potassium in the composition, the drink is useful for CVS, providing a therapeutic prophylactic effect on it. And the simultaneous use of banana and milk will keep teeth and bones healthy;

    • Banana in tandem with kefir or cottage cheese (low-calorie) is used as a dietary meal for weight loss.The benefits are contained in the composition that the fruit and the fermented milk product have – this is a low calorie content, strengthening bones and helping to get rid of excess fat;
    • Bananas are cooked with meat as a side dish, replacing, for example, potatoes. Venezuelans add fruit to rice, and in the Kuban, they fry in oil with spices. Many desserts are made from bananas, including mousses and creams.

    Banana in any form perfectly satisfies hunger, fills with energy and good mood.

    Bananas for men and women

    Men, for various reasons, are skeptical about bananas, which is very much in vain, because the male body will get a lot of benefits from eating this fruit:

    1. The first and very important ability of the fetus is to increase potency , thanks to the included tryptophan (essential acid).The balance of the psyche and the maintenance of the health of the nervous system are within the competence of this substance. And constant stress and overexertion have a strong impact on intimate life. Regular consumption of bananas will ensure the full functioning of all organs.
    2. The second, no less important function is filling with energy. This is especially true for men who work in heavy industry or go in for sports.
    3. Bananas help lower blood pressure. But the male population is more likely to suffer from hypertension than women.At the same time, the risk group is the age after 40 years. Enough 1 or 2 fruits a day to have a preventive or curative effect.
    4. These fruits will also help you get rid of such a bad habit as smoking. It will be necessary at the time of the appearance of a strong desire to smoke, eat a quarter of a banana, which will significantly weaken it.

    Women will also get a lot of benefits from eating bananas, starting with the fact that they will bring taste pleasure:

    • These fruits cleanse the body at the cellular level, removing toxins;
    • One banana a day makes the skin youthful and attractive, radiant with health;
    • Bananas have a prophylactic effect against oncology, which provides carotene and vitamin B;
    • The fruit is able to reduce headaches and prevent migraines than women suffer much more often than men.

    The calorie content of bananas, especially in dry form, is high, but they still help to get rid of excess weight and correct the figure.

    Bananas are also useful for pregnant women, but in moderation. And don’t forget that this fruit can lower blood pressure. Therefore, before using it, the expectant mother should definitely consult with her gynecologist, who will correct the amount. Read more about the link.

    Bananas for children

    For children, the benefits are also great because the plant is grown without the need for fertilization.The thick peel protects against the penetration of all kinds of pests and harmful elements.

    Due to its rich vitamin and mineral composition, the baby’s body is provided with a full range of nutrients, strengthening the body, improving sleep and mood.

    You can feed your child with bananas from six months of age – since the fruit has a sweet taste and soft texture, the baby is unlikely to refuse it. Start with small doses, gradually increasing the amount as needed, carefully monitoring the body’s response to this product.If indigestion such as diarrhea or a rash appears on the body, banana feeding should be stopped and resumed after a while.

    For children of preschool and school age, a banana helps to better concentrate and relieve fatigue.

    Daily consumption of bananas

    The norm of consumption of bananas during the day depends on the amount of components, which in large quantities can harm human health. This applies to the following elements:

    1. Vitamin B6.It can be consumed from 2 to 4 mg per day. A medium-sized banana has 0.8 mg. Accordingly, the permissible amount of fruits is no more than 5 pieces.
    2. Potassium per day – 2000 mg, the average fruit contains about 700, which means you can eat 3 bananas.
    3. Magnesium for women the norm is 300 mg, for men – 400, in a banana it is 80. Based on this, ladies can consume 3 fruits a day, and gentlemen – 5.

    Well, for those who are losing weight – 1-2 fruits, preferably in the first half or at least until 15 o’clock in the afternoon.

    With this information, you can independently plan your diet for the day, without fear for your figure and health.

    Video – useful in bananas

    Bananas in the morning

    Opinions about the use of bananas for breakfast are different – some experts say that it is not very useful, while others recommend them for weight loss.

    Japanese pharmacists have developed a special diet called “Banana for Breakfast”. One of the first women in this country to experience it on herself was the opera star Kumiko Mori, which helped her lose more than 7 kg in a month.

    The simplicity of this method of losing weight lies in the fact that you do not need to cook anything in advance – the main thing is to buy bananas. They need to be eaten in the morning, washed down with water without gas, and without using anything else. During the day, you can eat anything you want, except ice cream and alcohol, as well as pastries. The last meal should be no later than 20.00 hours. You can’t have a snack either, just drink plain water at room temperature.

    And no matter what the opponents of this diet say, the singer still managed to lose weight on it, and very significantly.

    In what cases bananas are contraindicated

    Due to the fact that this fruit is considered a heavy product with slow digestion, the outflow of bile is difficult, causing excessive gas formation. Therefore, it is necessary to eat bananas a little bit by small pieces with thorough chewing.

    • Experts do not recommend eating this product on an empty stomach immediately after waking up and drinking it with any liquid.
    • Bananas are contraindicated in people after a stroke and heart attack.
    • Varicose veins with thrombophlebitis also ban bananas.
    • Bananas are also not recommended for people with low blood pressure and high stomach acidity.
    • For diabetes mellitus, the fruit can be eaten in limited quantities and after the approval of the attending physician.

    Bananas – treatment

    Bananas are not only a tasty and aromatic fruit, they are also able to heal from some ailments:

    • If you eat 1 fruit every day, you can get rid of depression;
    • To get rid of a cough, a banana is rubbed, placed in a bowl of water (hot) – 1 glass for 2 fruits (with sugar), heated and rubbed again;
    • In case of constipation, it is recommended to eat about 4-5 pieces during the day;
    • One banana before each meal will help get rid of stomach ulcers;
    • People with hypertension need to eat 1 fruit daily;
    • The appearance of edema due to heart failure is an indication for the regular use of bananas, as an adjunct to medications.If the edema is small, then they can be treated without medication.

    A large amount of vitamins in the composition will fill with vitality, relieving chronic fatigue and depressive conditions.

    Choosing and storing bananas correctly

    Bananas are not a fruit that grows on our land, they are imported from tropical countries. And this means that the choice of the product must be approached competently:

    1. The fruit should have a streamlined smooth shape, and not ribbed.
    2. Healthy fruit has a smooth matte skin without water droplets. The drops will indicate that the sellers have sprayed it with water for better preservation and appearance.
    3. The peel of a ripe banana is completely yellow – a greenish color will indicate that it is not ripe.
    4. The presence of black dots on the surface of the fruit is allowed – this means that it is ripe. Only you need to eat them right away, otherwise they will quickly deteriorate.
    5. Bananas with black spots on the peel are not suitable for consumption – they are already decaying.
    6. Do not buy bananas with a gray surface – they are frozen.

    There is a misconception that healthy bananas are small. This is not so – a high-quality fruit reaches 20 m in length, but fruits less than 15 cm are most often fodder.

    It is best to store bananas at a temperature of 18-23 degrees (in a word, at room temperature). Fruits are stored for a maximum of a month, depending on the degree of ripeness.

    The refrigerator is not the best place for bananas – they quickly darken there.But if you put them there, then give them a separate place away from other products.

    Secret: so that an unripe banana “reaches” sooner, wrap it in paper (you can even in newspaper). A few hours and it will be much more ripe.

    Bananas in cosmetology

    The rich composition of banana makes it possible to successfully use it in cosmetology, improving the skin of the face and making the hair healthy. I want to offer you simple recipes for making various masks at home:

    • The simplest thing is to knead the pulp of a ripe banana and apply the resulting puree on the face and décolleté.And if you don’t want to make an effort and crush the fruit, then you can make it even easier – cut into circles and make a mask out of them.
    • To reduce wrinkles, chop one medium fruit, add 2 small spoons of honey and the same amount of cream. Mix everything, making a homogeneous mass out of them, and then apply on the skin for 15 minutes. It is recommended to remove it using a cotton swab, previously soaked in mineral water. Such procedures should be done up to 3 times weekly. Read about others as well.
    • In winter, the best protection and nourishment of the skin of the face is a banana with honey (preferably candied). These two ingredients, when mixed, are pushed well and applied to the skin for 15 minutes, followed by rinsing off with just warm water.
    • For dry hair, the following recipe is perfect – take a banana, a chicken egg and an avocado, grind everything and apply it to the hair with distribution along its entire length. It is enough to hold such a mask for 15 minutes and then rinse with water.
    • For oily hair, another mask is suitable – add a large spoonful of honey and lemon juice to the pulp of the fruit.All other manipulations are the same as in the previous recipe. If you want to add extra shine to your hair, add another egg. In this case, you will need to wrap your head with a towel. After the mask is washed off, rinse with infusion of oak bark or vinegar solution.

    The body benefits of this tropical fruit are due to its high nutritional content. Thanks to this, as well as the pliable and comfortable aromatic consistency, it occupies a leading position among other natural products.

    About the banana peel

    Not only the banana pulp can benefit people – the peel too. After all, it has an equal composition of nutrients – antioxidants, oils, minerals, macronutrients and wax. Therefore, the area of ​​application is extensive:

    1. To keep your skin in perfect condition – just regularly wipe your face, neck and other parts of the body with the inner surface of the peel.
    2. It helps with any skin irritation in the form of sunburns, scratches with abrasions, mosquitoes, bees, wasp stings and so on.
    3. Banana peel fights acne, psoriasis and warts.
    4. It does an excellent job of whitening teeth.
    5. You can also achieve shine on the leather surface of your shoes by using the peel. And polishing furniture is within her power.

    Even a splinter can be removed from the body with a peel – attach a small piece to the sore spot and leave it for a day. Banana peels contain enzymes that can pull foreign objects to the surface of the skin.

    Banana peel… edible and healthy (shocking video!)

    But the most amazing thing is that you can eat banana peels. Yes, it is edible and healthy. Watch the video:

    It turns out that the peel competes with the bran in terms of the content of coarse fiber (in the peel of green fruits it is more – about 30%). Coarse fiber is a miracle of nature, which is lacking (and catastrophically!) In the diet of our contemporaries. It collects toxic and carcinogenic substances, cholesterol, in the intestines.

    It can be eaten raw (but you are unlikely to be delighted with the taste) or stewed.Scrape off the top of the peel with a vegetable peeler, dry in a dry frying pan, add water or broth, spices (garlic, cilantro, mint) and simmer for 10 minutes, or a little more. Try it – readiness when the viscous taste disappears. The resulting dish resembles eggplant or mushrooms 🙂

    And you can cook candied fruits – cut the peel into strips, boil it in sugar syrup. When the syrup is almost boiling dry, dry the candied fruits on a baking sheet. Find out more – a whole selection.

    Here’s a healthy banana product.Now all that remains is to use this knowledge, improving your health, appearance and mood.

    On this I say goodbye to you – until we meet again! Tell your friends on social networks about the new and interesting information you have received. Subscribe to updates on our blog to receive only selected, best articles in your mail.

    Have long been familiar on our tables. They are not just enjoyed, but sometimes added to weight loss diets. And foods like bananas can also be a good addition to medication for certain conditions.But how can you eat them correctly?

    Can you eat bananas at night?

    At night, the human body generally rests. But the metabolic processes operate without stopping. And bananas do just that. But is it really okay to eat bananas at night?

    • If you eat a banana and immediately fall asleep, your stomach will not have time to digest it. So a restless night can be provided. But if you wait at least half an hour, then the fruit will have time to participate in the splitting process.Bananas are easily absorbed by the body.
    • Whether you are ready to stay awake for another reason is the question. Once in the body, potassium salts begin their diuretic effect. Of course, you can eat a banana. In this case, the night can be hectic. Perhaps, 2-3 times you will visit the sanitary room. If this is the night before the working day, is it worth the risk?

    Can I eat bananas at night? In these situations, the question is not about the dangers of bananas eaten before bedtime.They only cause inconvenience to some people. But a poorly spent night can wipe out all efforts. After all, insomnia is a factor that leads to disruptions in the normal functioning of the body. Although bananas themselves are quite a healthy product, as evidenced by their composition.

    Composition of a banana

    These fruits can be called a real “treasure of life” – so many useful substances are included in the fruit.

    • A quarter of the amount of the product is sugar and starch, which are useful carbohydrates.
    • Enzymes help to assimilate these components and
    • Pectins and fiber contained in the composition help to normalize digestion.
    • Among the minerals contained in banana, potassium salts should be distinguished, which are very abundant in the product. Thanks to them, excess fluid is removed from the body.
    • Physiologically active substances, which are also present in bananas, are involved in the metabolism and normalization of the work of almost all organs. For example, scientists themselves call serotonin “the hormone of happiness.”Therefore, bananas help to overcome depression.
    • The root of the word “vitamin” is translated as “life”. It is enough to eat 1 banana a day to saturate the body with some of these components. After all, it is impossible to imagine a normal metabolism in the body without the participation of just a sufficient set of them (ascorbic and nicotinic acids, riboflavin, carotene), which allows cells to “breathe” and develop normally.

    Eating bananas daily will help you get rid of excess weight by adjusting the proper course of metabolic processes.

    About the benefits of the product

    From the composition of the product described above, one can already judge its benefits in many areas of human life.

    • Bananas are recommended to be included in the diet for the treatment of certain diseases. Sometimes doctors even recommend seizing a number of medications with this product for better absorption.
    • The fruit’s ability to influence metabolism, remove excess water from the body, influence the work of organs at the hormonal level has attracted those who follow their figure.Bananas are included in many weight loss diets.
    • Exotic fruits are also used for external use. Compresses are made from banana gruel to treat burns, and women of fashion use it for nourishing masks.
    • Banana will help men restore their former strength, making it possible to cope with impotence. But isolated fruits cannot solve the problem here – every breakfast should include these fruits in the menu.

    Only ripe bananas are useful for the body. They are lower in calories due to the lower density of the starch contained in the fruit.

    Harm of the banana diet

    Is it harmful to eat bananas at night? The dangers of this product should be discussed from a slightly different angle. Some categories of people should not use this fruit either at night or during the day.

    • Due to the high sugar content, bananas are contraindicated in diabetics.
    • Despite the fact that the goal of banana diets is to lose weight, they are contraindicated for people with severe obesity due to the presence of starch and the high calorie content of the product.
    • Although bananas are useful to the heart, with thrombophlebitis there is a risk of relapse, because the fruit helps to thicken the blood.

    Everyone else needs to include these exotic fruits in their diet. If you want, you can afford banana diets. And whether to eat these fruits at night, decide for yourself – you will not cause much harm to your health.

    Banana diets

    Can I eat a banana at night? Although they are considered a high-calorie product, they do not add extra pounds, i.e.Because fruits, on the contrary, help fight obesity. The presence of easily digestible carbohydrates makes bananas filling, which is very important when you go on a diet.

    It should be immediately stipulated that such diets should not be regular, it is not advisable to eat only bananas all the time – the body needs a balanced diet. The banana menu can be afforded as fasting days (from 3 to 7 days) in order to recover, for example, after winter or busy holidays.

    Diet days include only bananas combined with milk or kefir, water and green tea.The effect is really good, because the fruit promotes the elimination of excess fluid, cleanses the body and at the same time supports the metabolism and energy balance.

    As a rule, food intake is distributed throughout the day, making the last snack before 19:00. But sometimes there are recommendations to eat 1 banana at night. Supposedly it will benefit your body.

    We eat at night and lose weight

    Is it possible to have a banana at night while losing weight? There is another ingredient in this appetizing yellow product – melatonin.This hormone helps the body to establish itself. Thus, medications with melatonin are prescribed for people suffering from insomnia. But is it worth loading the stomach with chemicals if there is an opportunity to eat a healthy product at night?

    As mentioned above, a banana (eaten at night) is actively involved in metabolism, helping to lose extra pounds. Therefore, the eaten product can provoke frequent urge to use the toilet. To prevent this from happening, the banana diet should not start with a bunch of flounders – the body must be prepared for this in advance.

    Active cleansing takes place in case of heavy pollution. If you regularly adhere to a balanced diet and give up unhealthy foods, then the banana diet will do without night vigils. You will sleep like a baby and lose weight at the same time.

    Preparing for the “night” diet

    Any diet requires a preparatory process. Banana is no exception. Therefore, you need to devote a couple of days to some procedures.

    • It is necessary to cleanse the liver and kidneys by drinking at least special herbal teas.
    • The intestines are also cleaned without fail. The easiest way is saline enemas.
    • The transition to a sparing diet, that is, refusal of fried, spicy, smoked, fatty foods.
    • The day before starting the diet should be unloading – only still mineral water and green tea.

    Having rid the body of toxins, you will enable the banana diet to be engaged exclusively

    Recipes for the night banana diet

    Is it possible to have a banana at night with a diet? If the daily diet provides for the use of this product exclusively (in combination with milk or tea), then with night weight loss there are no such restrictions.During the day, you can eat well, but in moderation. Dishes should contain exclusively easily digestible food.

    And then the body will happily accept the banana menu at night.

    • Just before going to bed, you can drink (no more than a glass). Grind a third of the banana in a blender, add a third of a glass of carrot juice and 2/3 cup of warm milk in which honey is melted (3 tsp). All ingredients are whipped into a healthy, nutritious shake.
    • Another drink will be useful at night for those who are going to lose weight – smoothies.Here banana is mixed with pineapple, kiwi and apple juice are added. All ingredients are adjusted to taste. But the drink is not suitable for those with stomach acid problems.
    • And oat smoothie, although satisfying, contains only 190 kcal (1 portion). So, a smoothie eaten at night will take care of both your health and your figure. It is prepared this way: oatmeal boiled in water (1 tablespoon) is mixed with half a banana and low-fat yogurt (200 ml), everything is whipped in a blender. If desired, you can add a little cinnamon or vanilla, as well as 1 tsp.l. honey.
    • You can eat a cottage cheese-banana dessert, lightly seasoned with honey, at night. But at the same time, keep in mind that the curd mass should not be greasy (to avoid heaviness in the stomach), and the amount of the dish should not be small (4-5 tbsp. L.).
    • For those who stay up late due to work, you can use grilled bananas. The peeled fruit is cut lengthwise into 2 halves, each of which is greased with honey and sprinkled with chopped walnuts. You need to bake no more than 5 minutes.

    In conclusion

    Any of the recipes prepared at night will be useful for losing weight if you do not overeat. It should be borne in mind that banana-milk diets are good only during the day. But in night menus, this combination is better to exclude due to the fermentation process.

    So, if you reasonably approach the issue of losing weight, a banana (eaten at night) will not bring any harm or inconvenience. And the complementary products included in the recipe will make your night’s sleep healthy.

    Banana belongs to the perennial herbaceous plants of the Banana family.The Malay Archipelago is considered its homeland. The height of the plant depends on the variety and can reach 10 meters. There are about 70 species of this plant. Banana stem – pseudostem – strong, short. On each stem, brushes develop, which are collected in a bunch. Each bunch contains up to 300 bananas. Such a bunch can weigh from 35 to 75 kg. The stem bears fruit only once, then it dies. A new stem develops from the buds of the rhizome and everything happens all over again. This process takes almost a year. The banana fruit has the same name.The fruit is a berry that has an elongated shape. The pulp is tender, soft, aromatic, white-cream or pink in color. The shell is leathery, easily separated from the pulp. It can be yellow, green or red. The banana flavor may or may not be sweet, depending on the variety.

    The benefits and harms of bananas

    Banana is very useful for the body, as it contains a huge number of nutrients and elements. It contains the necessary vitamins: provitamin A, C, B6, B2, B1, PP, K.Of the chemical elements there are potassium, sodium, magnesium, phosphorus, iron, sulfur, manganese, copper. It contains starch, sugars, pectins, organic acids, fiber, tannins, aromatic substances, nitrogenous substances, enzymes, catecholamines. Banana contains a protein called tryptophan, which is converted into the “joy hormone” serotonin. Therefore, bananas are used to treat depression, irritability, and bad mood. The high content of potassium has a positive effect on the condition of the heart and blood vessels, helps to remove fluid from the body with edema, participates in salt metabolism, and strengthens muscles.With frequent muscle cramps in the legs, it is recommended to use bananas more often as food, since this reaction of the body reveals a lack of potassium. There is 376 mg of potassium in a banana, and there is very little sodium and nitrogenous substances in it. This makes banana indispensable for kidney disease, kidney failure, and artificial kidney. Bananas are well digested and digestible. Enrich the body with useful substances and energy. It is recommended for postoperative patients for early recovery.Known for its enveloping and analgesic properties, useful for the gastrointestinal tract. It is used to feed patients with burns, after cancer operations, including radiation therapy and chemotherapy. Due to the high amount of sugar, bananas are often used by athletes, as sugar is quickly converted into energy, since the calorie content of a banana is relatively high.

    The question arises: how many calories are in a banana?
    Depending on the variety and its degree of maturity, we can conclude that it will be from 86 to 100 kcal per hundred grams of product.The calorie content of 1 banana also depends on its size and weight. Bananas are used as a product for diets (banana diet) and for fasting days. Bananas help to increase efficiency, concentration, and reduce body fatigue. Those looking to gain weight or increase their muscle mass are advised to eat bananas daily. Patients with hypertension and atherosclerosis are advised to arrange fasting banana days. They are useful for diseases of the liver and kidneys: diapedetic bleeding, nephritis, urolithiasis.Bananas are used to treat stomatitis. The laxative property of bananas is used to treat gastrointestinal diseases. They are also prescribed for diarrhea, colitis, enteritis. Crushed banana pulp is used to treat childhood gastrointestinal conditions. Banana is useful for treating heartburn and constipation. Bananas do not cause allergic reactions, so they are recommended even for infants as a first food. Bananas are used to treat children with celiac disease (that is, an allergy to gluten in cereals).But before treatment, you need to consult a doctor. Banana stem juice is used as it has sedative properties. It is used as an anticonvulsant and sedative. It is used to treat epilepsy and hysteria. This is a scientific fact. Banana peel also has medicinal properties. She is treated for migraine (applying a compress to the forehead and on the back of the head), hypertension (using a decoction of green peel), burns and rashes (applying the inner part to the wounds), plantar warts (tying the peel to the wart, changing it to a new one every day).

    Healing properties of banana

    the use of a banana for diseases of the liver, kidneys, atherosclerosis, hypertension, edema of the extremities, constipation gives a positive result, due to the presence of iron, zinc and potassium. banana fruit has antiseptic and astringent properties necessary for inflammation of the mucous membrane of the stomach and mouth, enteritis, with exacerbation of stomach and intestinal ulcers. with diabetes mellitus and with high acidity, you can only eat unripe or boiled fruits, since ripe fruits contain sucrose, fructose and lactose.for women on “critical days”, bananas will help restore vitamin B, which is necessary for hair growth and smooth facial skin. the presence of carotene helps to cope with diseases of the heart and blood vessels. it is enough to eat 1-2 bananas a day and muscle pain, irritability, the need to take pills for hypertensive patients disappears. old people and children can eat bananas often, they rarely cause allergies. athletes can eat after exercise to recuperate. vitamins E and C, contained in the fruits of bananas, have a positive effect on the liver, genitals and reproductive function.they slow down skin aging, wounds heal quickly, and the nervous system recovers. bananas lower blood pressure, cleanse the vocal cords in case of sore throat, lower body temperature. people suffering from heartburn, as well as those undergoing chemotherapy in oncology clinics, benefit from bananas. the pulp of the fruit is used for moisturizing and softening face masks (smoothes wrinkles, eliminates inflammation). for the mask you will need: pulp 1 banana, 2 tbsp / l cream, honey 1 h / l; Stir the mixture, spread on the face for 10-15 minutes, rinse with water.for dry hair after a perm, a mask of 1 banana, 1 tsp / l of sprouted wheat germ oil, 1 tbsp / l of honey is suitable. Mix the whole composition in a blender, spread on hair and rinse after 20 minutes. A banana diet, without eating buns and pasta, has a tangible effect on weight loss. banana peel will relieve irritation and swelling from mosquito bites by rubbing the inside of the sore spot. bananas are good for a milkshake and honey hangover. it will calm the stomach, raise sugar levels and cleanse the body.

    Contraindications to the use of banana

    Bananas are slowly digested, and therefore can cause gas and bloating in the intestines, and prevents the outflow of bile. So, if you have such problems, you should not eat a lot of bananas on an empty stomach and drink water. It is contraindicated to use bananas in food with high acidity, with a tendency to varicose veins and thrombophlebitis, since bananas thicken the blood. For the same reason, it is not recommended to get carried away with bananas after heart attacks and strokes.Ripe bananas should not be eaten with diabetes mellitus, as they are high in sugars.
    And so, banana fruits are not recommended:
    – for patients with varicose veins, as they increase the viscosity of the blood, which leads to the appearance of blood clots;
    – for diabetics and overweight people, as sugar causes bloating, flatulence;
    – for patients who have suffered a stroke or heart attack,
    – for people with high acidity of gastric juice;

    In recent decades, humanity has been concerned with the problem of healthy nutrition, at least in those countries where the population does not face the problem of hunger.Various food additives, medicines and stimulants are invented, a significant sector of the real economy is engaged in the production of products, often synthesized artificially. But there are completely natural fruits, the regular consumption of which will help solve many medical problems, from overweight to cancer. These are bananas, they are sold everywhere and are quite inexpensive. People have a general idea of ​​their healing properties, but perhaps not all of them.

    Fitness effect

    Weight is not only overweight, the main problem is often its “wrong distribution”.In other words, the owners of curvaceous forms of both sexes go to gyms and fitness clubs not only to lose weight, they strive to improve their figure, build muscles. So, the most ordinary bananas will become assistants in this good cause. It has been established that the body needs magnesium to grow muscle mass, it is necessary for protein synthesis. In addition, the need for this chemical element is due to the lipolysis process (getting rid of excess fat). There is a lot of magnesium in bananas, and if they are regularly eaten, the effect will surpass all expectations.And tea from them is also very useful, it is very simple to prepare it. You need to cut off the ends of the banana right in the peel, pour boiling water over and wait 7-10 minutes. Both tasty and healthy, and a flat stomach is provided.

    Yes, one more important point. When exercising in the gym, not only excess weight is lost, but energy is also consumed. In addition to magnesium, bananas also contain potassium, which has a strengthening effect on muscles and relieves fatigue. The body recovers faster.

    Solid positive

    Bananas even look like smiles, and this is exactly the case when the form is quite consistent with the content.This is because they contain vitamin B9, folate, and other nutrients that can help fight depression. Serotonin is responsible for the feeling of inner comfort and happiness. This natural antidepressant, entering the brain, improves mood, and for its production the body needs all the same folic acid. Bananas contain enough of it to make the darkest pessimist happy.

    In addition to serotonin, vitamin B9 improves mood. Bananas contain tryptophan, which has a similar effect to serotonin.

    These natural antidepressants can treat anxiety and insomnia and reduce fatigue, irritability, agitation, anger and aggression. Bananas also contain norepinephrine, which regulates fight-or-flight selection and stress levels. These fruits promote positive moods and help prevent depression. They also contain tryptophan, which can help promote restful sleep. And no recipe needed.

    Excellent digestion

    Each banana contains 12 mg of choline, a fat-burning vitamin, but not only that.It prevents gas formation, prebiotics, that is, indigestible carbohydrates, serve as food for beneficial intestinal bacteria (probiotics), because they contain fructose molecules. Taken together, the action of the banana menu has a positive effect on the entire digestive system. Slightly unripe fruits are especially useful, but they taste bitter, so it is recommended to use them in fruit cocktails. Along the way, the blood sugar level is stabilized.

    Reduces cholesterol levels

    Fans of fast food chains probably know that so-called trans fats enter the body along with french fries and cheeseburgers.This is not very useful, these substances increase the level of “bad” cholesterol. Everyone knows this, but they still cannot overcome their passion for fast food. Banana can serve as a softening additive for the negative effect, it contains vitamin B6, which neutralizes most of the harmful effects of “fast food”.

    Bones are strengthened

    Although bananas do not contain a lot of calcium (less than 1% of the daily recommended value), but they promote its absorption, this process is catalyzed by their fructo-oligosaccharides.Thus, it is not about the quantity (say, just eating eggshells is completely useless), but what percentage of the consumed micronutrients will actually “work”.

    Energy value

    This product is a marathon runner’s dream. Bananas are rich in glucose, the most easily digestible sugar source, providing the optimal resource for any job. Just one fruit, eaten after exercise, helps to quickly replenish the energy reserves that are depleted during hard work.

    Immunity

    There is almost no vitamin A in bananas, but they still help with its absorption. They are rich in provitamin A, alpha and beta carotene. These trace elements provide protection against chronic diseases, including cardiovascular diseases, diabetes, and even …

    Treat cancer!

    Delphinidin, an antioxidant found in bananas, has anti-tumor properties. Studies by food and chemical toxicologists have shown that increasing delphinidin concentrations inhibit the growth and proliferation of stomach cancer cells.A healthy weight (see above) also reduces the risk of developing cancer.

    Bananas lower blood pressure

    The combination of low sodium and high potassium helps to normalize blood pressure and reduce the likelihood of stroke in individuals and the general population. Bananas are rich in potassium, there is little sodium in them, on this basis, this fruit is recognized as an excellent means of preventing and treating hypertension, heart attack and stroke. In addition, iron is also important, which is also found in bananas.This element of the periodic table is important as an agent for the delivery of oxygen to cells.

    They improve vision

    Detoxify

    Bananas have a lot of pectin, so they can be safely called natural detoxifiers. Gelatinous fibers, as it were, adhere to toxic compounds that accumulate in the blood, and remove them from the body along with urine. Bananas are capable of removing even heavy metals (for example, mercury). Pectin can also limit the amount of fat absorbed by the cells.

    Conclusions

    There are other useful properties of bananas, and it is quite possible that science is not yet known all of them. You should probably not think about how to treat these fruits, they, of course, are not a panacea, but their usefulness is great. And after all, bananas are just delicious.

    Having read on one of the sites the heading “ Harm of bananas
    “I was even taken aback at first. Well, what harm could be from these tasty and rich in vitamins and minerals tropical fruits? However, I soon realized that it was not the presence of possible negative consequences when using bananas that surprised me, of course, but the very wording “ harmful properties
    “.The word “ harm
    “is appropriate to use when describing the consequences of the use of alcohol, tobacco, as a last resort, smoked, fried, sweet, salty or other unhealthy food. It is hardly necessary to talk about the dangers of fresh fruit. Rather, here we are talking about the need for a sense of proportion in the use of any products and, possibly, about rather rare cases of individual contraindications.

    Why, after all, so many sites on the Internet tell no more and no less, how exactly about the “dangers of bananas”? It’s very simple: these headings are made for the search engines.Often users ask Yandex or Google simple and slightly clumsy questions like “The benefits and harms of bananas, apples”, etc. It is for these requests that the unscrupulous authors of the sites concoct articles about the allegedly harmful properties of fruits. Meanwhile, such formulations are very important – after all, they actually mislead people. The fact is that there is no harm from eating bananas and cannot be
    . At least, no unconditional harm arising a priori with any use of bananas.The most we can talk about here is the presence of recommendations for the reasonable and moderate consumption of any food.
    . If you eat 10 kilograms of any food in one sitting, then it is quite possible to die. However, this will not mean that death occurred as a result of the harmful effects of this food. There is a wonderful phrase “In a spoon – medicine, in a cup – poison.” It shows that a lot depends on the amount of food we consume. Kills and harms excess and monotony in food
    , not eating specific foods.

    However, since we are talking about the myths and truths about the dangers of bananas, we need to list some recommendations for their use with maximum health benefits. I will not talk about the dangers of bananas – I will only say about some precautions in their use
    :

    • It should be remembered that an excess of certain substances contained in bananas is not beneficial for the body (for example, potassium). Therefore, for these reasons, it is best to eat no more than two – maximum three fruits daily.This issue is discussed in more detail in the article “How many bananas can you eat per day”.
    • It should be borne in mind that bananas are very high in calories
      . Three bananas contain a quarter of a woman’s daily calorie intake. Therefore, a large number of them in the diet is dangerous for the figure. By the way, banana shakes (a mixture of bananas with ice cream and milk) for this reason are just a calorie bomb.
    • Bananas are pretty heavy food
      , in the sense that they are absorbed in the body for a rather long time (about 4 hours).Therefore, it is undesirable to eat them at night.
    • Like any other fresh fruit, bananas should preferably be eaten separately from other types of food.
      . It is optimal to use these tropical fruits for breakfast or afternoon tea.
    • Bananas should be used with caution for people with allergies or diabetes. In these cases, it is best to coordinate any questions about the organization of meals with your attending physician.
    • According to some reports, bananas increase blood viscosity
      .Therefore, they should be used with caution by those for whom this factor is important: people who have suffered a heart attack, stroke, as well as those suffering from thrombophlebitis or varicose veins. It is believed that for this reason, bananas in the diet can worsen erection in men (to be honest, I have never noticed such an action on my own).
    • Frequent and heavy consumption of bananas can cause excessive fermentation and a feeling of heaviness in the stomach. Not dangerous – but little pleasant.
    • I will combine in the last paragraph and a couple of tips, in my opinion, more like myths.The first suggests that eating more than three bananas a day can cause headaches. But the second one claims that “bananashek” are more fond of biting mosquitoes.

    Finally, I will draw a short and comprehensive conclusion:
    if you do not suffer from diseases such as diabetes, allergies, thrombophlebitis or varicose veins, have not recently suffered a heart attack or stroke, then you can safely eat two bananas at least every day
    … Most of these tropical fruits are not eaten even by residents of the countries where they grow.


    90,000 Banana – description with photo; benefit and harm; growing at home

    Calories: 96 kcal.

    Energy value of the product Banana:
    Proteins: 1.5 g.
    Fats: 0.5 g.
    Carbohydrates: 21 g.

    Description

    Banana is a plant of the banana family. They belong to one of the most ancient fruits that are cultivated by man. The homeland of the banana is considered the territory of the tropics of Southeast Asia. Today, the cultivation of these fruits is ranked 4th in popularity.

    Fruits grow in several pieces on long branches. In the wild, the pulp of the fruit contains many seeds, but in cultivated varieties they do not. Bananas are covered with thick peel (see photo). Its color, as well as the aroma and taste of the fruit, depend on the type of fruit. They are sweet as honey, there are some with some sourness, and there are those that cannot be eaten raw at all. In addition, these fruits also differ in shape, which can be cylindrical, triangular, straightened or rounded.The length of bananas can reach from 3 to 40 cm, and in diameter the fruits reach no more than 8 cm.

    Is a banana a fruit, berry, vegetable or herb?

    “Is a banana a fruit, berry, vegetable or herb?” – this question interests many. Scientists are inclined to believe that a banana is a berry. This is due to the fact that the banana is a perennial herb called the “banana tree.” But this is not quite the correct name.

    Herbaceous plants do not have lignified parts, they have only a very fleshy stem, which, having borne fruit, dies off.The banana grows in the same way. Its stem is just a set of green leaves tightly adjacent to each other. It is on it that the inflorescences bloom, and then the fruits ripen.

    During one year, only one crop can be harvested from such a plant, then the trunk dies, and in its place another, new stem grows from the remaining rhizome.

    Since bananas do not grow on trees and bushes, they cannot be classified as fruits. As for the berry, it is covered with a leathery shell with seeds inside.So, a banana is also covered with such a shell and contains a lot of seeds. It is considered a herb that belongs to the banana family.

    Varieties of bananas

    There are many varieties and varieties of bananas in the world and not all of them are yellow, although you will most likely not find many varieties on the shelves in stores. Let’s take a look at some of them (see table below).

    Variety name

    Characteristics

    Baby banana

    Has a yellow peel on the outside and a creamy texture on the inside.Such fruits grow no more than 7-8 cm in length, have a pronounced aroma and a very sweet honey taste.

    Blue Banana of Java

    From the name you can immediately determine the color of the banana. It has a blue skin, small size and a specific creamy taste.

    Banana Barro

    This fruit has an unusual, almost square shape, the skin is bright yellow, and the flesh is light cream.It has a lemon flavor that is not typical for bananas.

    Cavendish bananas

    The most common variety, its fruit size is 15-25 cm. The color outside is yellow. These bananas can be seen more often than others in stores.

    Manzano Banana

    Its fruits grow short and thick, when ripe, the peel should acquire a brownish tint.

    Plantine Banana

    This type of banana is not suitable for consumption raw.Most often, Plantain is fried or stewed.

    How to select and store?

    When buying bananas, choose fruits that have no green peel. You can safely buy bananas if the peel is bright yellow or has small brownish specks, but it is not devoid of elasticity. If there are quite a lot of brown spots on the banana and it is soft to the touch, then you should not buy such a fruit, it is already overripe and may be rotten inside.

    Store bananas in a cool, dark place, the air temperature should not exceed 15 degrees.It is not recommended to keep bananas in the refrigerator.

    If you have purchased greenish, unripe fruits, then you should put them in a warm place for ripening, but not in the sun.

    Useful properties

    Useful properties of bananas are very diverse. So, the fruits contain a large amount of potassium, which is simply necessary for the normalization of the heart. In order to get the daily rate, it is enough to eat only 2 fruits. Since the fruit contains useful amino acids, among which tryptophan occupies a special place, it can be considered an excellent natural antidepressant.In addition, banana contributes to the production of seratonin in the body, which is the “hormone of happiness.”

    If you regularly eat the fruit, you can minimize the risk of depression and insomnia.

    Bananas help to normalize blood pressure, and they also have a positive effect on the digestive tract. In addition, the fruit contains a lot of ascorbic acid, which improves the condition of blood vessels. Also, vitamin C resists early aging of the body and the action of free radicals.Thanks to ascorbic acid, banana increases and strengthens the immune system, which in turn helps the body to resist the effects of various viruses and infections.

    Banana also contains essential vitamin E and carotene, which prevents the development of thrombosis. It is also worth mentioning the B vitamins, which have a positive effect on the condition of the skin and hair.

    Use in cooking

    In cooking, such a product has found widespread use, but most often bananas are still eaten raw.The fruits are used to prepare a huge number of desserts: jellies, mousses, baking fillings, cream, ice cream are prepared from them. More often than not, the fruits are simply eaten whole. Bananas are also used to decorate various dishes.

    In addition, incredibly tasty jam, jam or nectar can be made from the fruit. In some countries, bananas are used in the alcoholic industry. Fried bananas are also gaining popularity lately. The fruits can also be dried and eaten as chips or candied fruits.

    How to cook?

    Although bananas are mostly eaten raw, they can be used to make a wide variety of dishes, and not just desserts. Bananas are prepared in different ways in different countries, using different technologies and additives for cooking.

    In Latin America, bananas are most often simply fried in olive oil, before cutting them in half diagonally.

    In the eastern part of the island of Haiti, these fruits are preferred to bake with beef, after boiling and kneading them.The mashed bananas are mixed with eggs and flour, milk or cream, butter, spices are added and the cooked mixture is poured over the fried meat, sprinkled with grated cheese on top and baked in the oven.

    In Puerto Rico they love to cook such a dish: they cut unripe bananas, fry them, add pork lard to them, season with garlic and spices.

    Banana pancakes are made in Ghana. For their preparation, a dough is made from flour, mixed with finely chopped plantain bananas, onions, pepper, salt and ginger are added.Then the pancakes are fried in palm oil.

    How to preserve?

    Bananas can be harvested for future use by canning, for example, you can make jam from them or pickle them if you have a lot of them and you do not know what to do with a large number of such fruits or you just want something new and unusual. Here are some ways you can preserve bananas:

    • Greenish bananas are boiled in their skins. Separately, a marinade is prepared from vinegar, garlic, onions, olive oil, various spices, seasonings and salt are added there, after which the peeled fruits are poured with the prepared marinade and left in it for a day.
    • Here’s another way of harvesting fruits: a syrup is prepared from water, sugar and lemon juice, after which peeled, chopped bananas are added to it and boiled until the mass darkens. As soon as this has happened, the jam can be rolled into jars, or you can eat it right away, here is your choice.
    • Finely chopped pieces of peeled and seed melon are placed in an enamel bowl, covered with sugar, covered and left overnight. In the morning, add lemon cut into small pieces, as well as a banana, and boil over low heat until a homogeneous mass is obtained, then increase the heat and cook until the jam thickens, after which it is poured into jars and hermetically sealed with lids.

    Canned banana preparations are always delicious. Such supplies will definitely diversify the assortment of the usual preserves for the winter.

    The benefits of a banana and treatment

    The benefits of bananas are due to their rich composition of vitamins and minerals. For example, since fruits contain a large amount of dietary fiber, doctors recommend using them in dietary nutrition for patients with gastritis or gastroduodenitis.

    It will be useful to eat bananas for people with edema, since the fruits contribute to the removal of excess fluid from the body.

    Since the fruit contains starch and pectin, bananas have an enveloping effect. With this in mind, it is recommended to consume the fruit for people with gastritis.

    Bananas are good for both the woman’s body and the man’s body.

    For women, bananas can be eaten during pregnancy and during menstruation to relieve muscle spasms.

    In addition, doctors allow the use of the berry during breastfeeding, but only three months after giving birth.You need to start with a small piece and it is better to eat it in the morning. If the baby feels good, he will not have colic in his tummy, bloating, an allergic rash on the skin, which means that bananas can be eaten further, only gradually. Three days after you tried to eat a small piece, you can already eat half a banana, and after another three days, you can eat a whole banana. Experts recommend eating no more than one banana a day, so as not to harm the health of the child.If, after a certain period, the newborn has a negative reaction to this product, the banana should be abandoned for now.

    Bananas provide tremendous help to the body of a man. It is useful to eat them to get rid of impotence. Also, the product is considered a powerful aphrodisiac. He is able to enhance libido, increase sex drive.

    The use of bananas is recommended for liver diseases such as hepatosis, cirrhosis and hepatitis.

    With pancreatitis, experts are allowed to eat bananas, but only ripe and in small quantities.They cannot be eaten fresh, so doctors advise you to chop bananas in mashed potatoes and steam them or bake them. You can eat no more than one banana per day, and it is best for breakfast. If, after consuming the product, there is a very severe pain in the pancreas, then bananas should be discarded.

    With cholecystitis, bananas can be eaten baked, but no more than three times a week for breakfast and in limited quantities (no more than one piece per day).

    For stomach ulcers and duodenal ulcers, bananas are allowed for consumption.It is best to eat them in the morning forty minutes before the main meal. However, if bloating and stomach pains appear, you should eat bananas only three hours after eating and do not drink anything for about one hour.

    In case of colitis, this product may only be eaten in the morning, three hours after a meal, and not washed down with tea, water or juice.

    You can also eat ripe bananas for heartburn, reflux esophagitis (preferably in the morning after eating), hemorrhoids, diarrhea (no more than two a day).

    In case of food poisoning, bananas can be eaten only after the body begins to recover, but no more than two bananas a day and only baked.

    In case of intestinal infection, bananas can be eaten only on the fourth day after recovery and only if the doctor permits.

    For constipation, doctors recommend eating no more than two ripe bananas a day.

    For cholelithiasis, bananas are advised to be consumed exclusively baked.

    Also, doctors are allowed to eat bananas with urolithiasis.

    For kidney stones, bananas can be eaten. However, bananas should be avoided for oxalate kidney stones.

    For gout, experts recommend eating no more than two ripe bananas a day, twice a week to reduce joint pain. However, if at the same time the patient has an increased blood sugar level, bananas should be discarded.

    For hives, you can eat banana puree, which is added to various dietary dishes (rice pudding, oatmeal porridge).You can also eat ripe bananas for psoriasis.

    Bananas are best eaten baked during rotavirus infections. Eating bananas can help reduce body temperature as well as relieve sore throat from coughs, bronchitis, and sore throat.

    In sports, for gaining muscle mass, you can prepare a protein shake (mix banana, protein, cottage cheese and milk). When drying the body, bananas are best eaten in the morning and after training, that is, no more than two berries per day. However, after weight loss workouts, nutritionists do not recommend eating a banana, since it is a high-calorie product.To lose those extra pounds, you need to eat protein-rich foods.

    Doctors recommend including bananas in the diet for people who have high blood cholesterol, anemia (it increases hemoglobin in the blood), hypertension, atherosclerosis, HIV infection.

    The use of a banana will be useful for heart attack and stroke (unless the patient is diabetic).

    Along with the beneficial properties, eating bananas can cause tremendous harm to the body.It is not recommended to eat bananas for intestinal dysbiosis, flatulence, celiac disease, cholestasis, dyspepsia, nausea and vomiting, pyelonephritis, cystitis, allergies, atopic dermatitis, diathesis, eczema, varicose veins, epilepsy, stomach and rectal cancer.

    With candidiasis, the use of bananas is not allowed, so as not to exacerbate the development of thrush.

    Due to the large list of positive qualities, banana is also used in alternative medicine as a remedy.

    Name of the disease

    Method of treatment

    Pain in joints and muscles

    Keep the infusion in a dark place at room temperature for six weeks. After the specified period of time, it is necessary to rub the sore joints and muscles with alcoholic infusion every night for three weeks.

    Depression

    To get rid of a depressed and depressed state, you need to eat two ripe bananas every day in the morning, before the main meal.

    To heal wounds, burns and bites

    Rub the inside of the banana peel over the damaged area.The procedure can be done only once a day. The course of treatment lasts until the wound is completely healed.

    To get rid of excess weight

    During the day you need to eat three bananas and drink three glasses of kefir. Or you can mix these foods together to create healthy yogurt that can saturate your body for a whole day.

    For resorption of the bones on the feet with a deviation of the big toe

    The procedure should be performed up to four times a day for thirty minutes.To do this, wrap the bone with the inner part of the banana peel, secure it with tape and put on socks on top. At the end of the procedure, it will be enough to wipe the leg with a wet napkin.

    To remove warts

    The area with the wart must be wrapped with the inside of a banana skin and secured with a plaster. It is best to do this before bed. The peel needs to be changed every day. The course lasts until the wart disappears completely.

    To remove the splinter

    Wrap the inside of the banana peel around the splinter and wrap it with plaster.In twenty-four hours, not a trace of the splinter will remain.

    To strengthen the immune system

    It is necessary to prepare the following cocktail: combine in one container freshly squeezed juice from orange, carrot, banana pulp, a little liquid honey, lemon juice and beat with a blender. This shake is best drunk before meals during the day.

    Teeth whitening

    You must first brush your teeth, and then rub the surface of your teeth with the inside of the banana peel for a couple of minutes.After that, you need to brush your teeth again to remove the remnants of the banana.

    Psoriasis

    The inside of the banana peel should be lubricated on the affected skin. The course of treatment lasts until the disease recedes.

    Severe cough

    The following banana infusion will help get rid of the annoying cough. Peel one sufficiently ripe banana and mash it. Then combine the pulp of the berry with half a teaspoon of natural liquid honey and pour over everything with two hundred milliliters of boiling water, stirring well.Set the infusion aside for about thirty minutes. Take one hundred milliliters of warm banana infusion every two hours.

    If you doubt the effectiveness of alternative treatment of a particular disease, it is better to consult a doctor for advice.

    Below is a video on the benefits of banana.

    Harm of a banana and contraindications

    Harm a banana can bring to people with individual intolerance. It is not recommended to eat the fruits before bedtime, as they are digested for a sufficiently long time, which prevents the outflow of bile, which in turn can provoke fermentation in the stomach.You should not eat fruits with increased acidity of gastric juice. People with thrombophlebitis have contraindications to the use of bananas. It is worth excluding fruits from your diet during the period of weight loss, as well as people prone to weight gain and obesity. Ripe fruits should not be eaten with diabetes mellitus.

    Growing and Care

    If you want to grow a banana at home, first you need to know some of the features of this plant.

    Usually, these fruits grow in tropical countries, therefore, for normal growth and ripening, they require a lot of light, a certain temperature regime and air humidity.

    The most suitable air temperature for growing bananas in spring and summer should be 24-30 degrees, and in autumn and winter 18-20, but not lower than 16.

    If the banana leaves turn yellow and begin to dry, as a rule, this means that he there is not enough moisture in the air in order to prevent the leaves from drying out – spray them with water as needed.

    In summer, a banana needs a lot of water, so it should be watered quite often during this period, but in winter it needs much less moisture.

    There are dwarf banana varieties that have been bred specifically for growing at home. If you decide to grow a banana from seeds, and not purchase an already grown young plant in special stores, then you will need the following:

    1. Banana seeds have a dense shell on the outside, therefore, in order for the plant to quickly germinate, damage it a little, but only carefully, so as not to damage the seed itself. To do this, you can lightly rub the shell with a nail file or sandpaper.
    2. Choose not very large containers for the plant, 10-15 cm in diameter.
    3. Prepare the soil with added peat and river sand.
    4. Seeds should be pressed into the soil a little, but not covered with earth.
    5. Place a few sticks around the edges of the pot and stretch the plastic.
    6. Allow the plant to have access to light, but not in direct sunlight.
    7. Every few days, open the film for a while, spray it with water when the soil dries, but do not fill it.

    It will take several months for the shoots to emerge. After the plant has germinated, about a week later, you need to transplant it for the first time.

    Repot the plant every year, in the spring, and each time in pots a few centimeters higher and more spacious than the last time, and plant it, also a few cm deeper. If necessary, treat the root with a weak solution of manganese, this is necessary, if you notice unhealthy brown areas on the root of the plant, they should be removed.

    Banana should be fed every two weeks with organic and mineral fertilizers, starting in spring and ending in autumn. In winter, he does not need feeding.

    For good plant growth – you need to periodically loosen the soil.

    Almost the same technology of planting and caring for a plant is inherent in growing a banana in a greenhouse, which does not require only annual transplants to a new place.

    As well as for growing a banana at home – scarify the seeds, slightly damaging the hard shell of the shell.Then you can soak the seeds in a weak potassium permanganate and leave in it for a day. Mix 4 parts river sand with 1 part peat. At the bottom of the container, which you have prepared for growing seedlings from seeds, put gravel or expanded clay in an even layer one and a half to two cm thick, pour the prepared substrate of peat and river sand on top. An hour or two before planting the seeds, water the soil with a strong solution of potassium permanganate. Spread the seeds evenly on the substrate by pressing lightly into the soil. Stretch a film over the container or place glass on top.

    A week after the shoots appear, the plant can be planted in the greenhouse.

    Similar food products

    Nutritional value

    disaccharides

    g

    Saturated fatty acids 0.2 g
    Ash 0.9 g
    Starch 2 g

    19 g
    Unsaturated fatty acids 0.2 g
    Water 74 g
    Organic acids 0.4 g
    Fibers

    Vitamins

    Vitamin 9024 0.5 μg

    0.3 mg

    Vitamin B4 (choline) 9.8 mg
    Vitamin PP (Niacin equivalent) 0.9 mg
    Vitamin E (alpha-tocopherol) 0.4 mg
    Vitamin C (ascorbic acid) 10 mg
    Vitamin B9 (folic acid) 10 μg
    Vitamin B6 (pyridoxine) 0.4 mg
    Vitamin B5 (pantothenic acid) Vitamin B2 (riboflavin) 0.05 mg
    Vitamin B1 (thiamine) 0.04 mg
    Vitamin A (retinol equivalent) 20 μg
    24 Beta-24 0.12 mg
    Vitamin B3 (PP) 0.6 mg

    Minerals

    .

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