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Written by Navneet Kaur, M.Sc. Nutrition & Dietetics
Diet
Eat 1 banana a day. Almost all of us have heard about this. Here’s how it secretly helps (or harms) your body, let’s find out!
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Bananas are rich in carbohydrates and natural sugars making it a perfect pre-workout snack or a morning fuel.
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It is loaded with potassium, approximately. 362mg per 100g, which helps manage nerve function and helps regulate fluid balance.
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It is rich in fiber that helps relieve constipation and supports smooth bowel movements, especially in ripe form.
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As they are packed with potassium, bananas help lower blood pressure and protect your heart health overall.
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Bananas can help reduce anxiety and irritability due to their dopamine precursors, tyrosine & vitamin B6.
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As bananas help support gut flora and reduce water retention, they thus help manage bloating in the long run.
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As ripe bananas are sweet in taste and yet low in calories, they act as a great alternative to sugary snacks.
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Individuals with diabetes or on low-carb diets should limit their intake and consider the timing of when they include bananas. For optimal benefits, it's best to opt for green bananas or semi-ripe ones, as they contain resistant starch.
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They are best eaten in the morning as a pre-workout snack or as a mid-meal snack; avoid them just right before bedtime.
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From digestion to energy to heart health, 1 banana a day can be a game changer. So include it as per your preference, but at the correct time.
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