Bananas are a fruit that can be found in every household. Whether as a snack, in a cake, or even as a side dish, they can be prepared in many different ways.
This is fortunate because bananas are a nutrient source that offers numerous benefits. Although it is said that an apple a day keeps the doctor away, the same can be said of bananas, but there are specific rules to follow.
The benefits of bananas
A British study published in the European Heart Journal in 2022, which followed around 25,000 people aged 40 to 79, showed that those with a potassium-rich diet had a lower risk of stroke. Bananas are among the most potassium-rich foods.
They are also rich in fiber, which promotes intestinal health. According to the AACR, they also contain starch, which could have cancer-preventing properties. These starches could reduce the risk of developing certain gastrointestinal cancers, particularly those of the esophagus, stomach, pancreas, and bile ducts.
The limitations of bananas
Although bananas have many benefits, there are also some drawbacks to consider. Bananas are a very high-calorie food; in fact, they are one of the highest-calorie fruits, with an average of 90 kcal per 100g. Since a banana weighs 120g on average, its energy contribution is higher than an apple’s, for example.
Therefore, you should not only eat bananas. Bananas can also be dangerous for people with kidney failure. More than 5 to 6 grams per day can lead to cardiac arrhythmia. One banana a day provides 400 mg of potassium.
As the recommended daily intake of potassium is 2g, it is perfectly possible to eat a banana a day, but no more. You can eat one banana a day, but you should not exceed this amount to avoid potassium problems or consuming too many calories from this fruit. For a delicious and healthy breakfast, try these banana recipes.
This post has already been read 1520 times!