Time to Go Bananas for Bananas

Did you know Bananas are one of the most popular fruits consumed in the United States? On August 27^th fans of this popular yellow fruit are rejoicing for National Banana Lover’s Day! Not to be confused with National Banana Day which falls in April, National Banana Lover’s Day is a holiday dedicated to all those huge fans of Bananas!

Bananas are not only delicious, but they are packed with important nutrients. They provide a myriad of health benefits and are a great addition to a well-balanced diet.

Bananas are also a very versatile fruit. They make the perfect base for a smoothie, make the creamiest desserts, and are the perfect addition to nutritious snacks such as yogurt.

Benefits of Bananas

Bananas vary in variety as well as shapes, sizes, and colors. However, most of them contain the same important nutrients. Here are just some of the benefits of bananas:

Fiber: Fiber aids in gut health to help move digested materials through your body. Bananas contain a fiber called pectin, which is water-soluble fiber. This type of fiber is beneficial in lowering cholesterol and blood sugar levels.

Vitamins: Bananas contain important nutrients such as Vitamins B6 and C. Vitamin B6 aids in cell functioning and has been shown to promote brain health and fight inflammation, while vitamin C is important for cell growth and repair.

Potassium: Potassium can help manage blood pressure levels. Bananas are heart-healthy due to their high levels of Potassium. According to a research study, daily consumption of Potassium 1.3- 1.4 grams was linked to a 26 % lower risk of heart disease.

Prebiotic: Bananas act as a prebiotic, which helps feed the good bacteria in your gut. Promoting the growth of good bacteria in the gut can help keep bad bacteria away, keeping your gut healthy.

Ways to Eat a Banana at Every Meal

When you think of bananas, you probably think of mornings. However, bananas can be a great addition to meals throughout the day. Here are just a few ideas:

Breakfast. Bananas can make the perfect addition to your smoothie, Try freezing a medium-sized banana in the fridge overnight and use it to make the creamiest and most delicious smoothie. You can mix the banana with any fruit or vegetable of your choice and be sure to add in some flax seeds or chia seeds for some added fiber!

Lunch. Who says you can’t have a banana in a sandwich? Try adding chopped banana with a spread of Nutella or peanut butter to your sandwich. You can even have a banana as a side to whatever else you are eating.

Dinner. If you are a fan of bananas try out plantains! Plantains are in the banana family and are similar in look but different in flavor. Think of plantains like savory bananas. They are starchy fruit and low in sugar when they are ripe. Try adding plantains to your next meal either by boiling them for 20 mins and baking them or by stir-frying them in a pan.

Dessert. You can make a banana dessert simply by freezing bananas and dipping them in chocolate! Cut medium-sized bananas in half and place them on a popsicle stick, dip in melted dark chocolate, and freeze overnight or for 3- 4 hours, and enjoy!

Bananas are America’s favorite fruit for good reason. Their nutritional profile and various uses make them an excellent addition to your meals and the perfect fruit to grab on your way out the door.

Your Turn to Take Action: What ways do you like to eat bananas’? Let me know in the comment section below!