9 unique health benefits of bananas for all to enjoy

Bananas are ranked high among the world’s healthiest foods and for good reasons. It is incredible that these creamy, wonderfully sweet fruits in a yellow jacket are available all year round so that we can happily reap the amazing benefits from New Year to Christmas. Bananas contain various nutrients in different amounts, all of which have unique health benefits for all to enjoy;  

1. Bananas are high in potassium which is very good for your heart. Potassium is a mineral electrolyte that keeps electricity flowing through your system, thereby keeping your heart in top shape. According to renowned nutritionists having such high potassium content and low sodium levels, bananas can keep your blood pressure at safe levels and prevent cardiovascular problems.
2. These fruits are great for alleviating depression and stress owing to the presence of tryptophan, a compound that the body converts to serotonin; the chemical you need to be happy.
3. Your mum might sing endless praises to the carrot for giving great vision but bananas also have a role in it. They have significant amounts of vitamin A which is needed to maintain normal vision and protect the eyes.
4. Bananas are rich in fiber, a nutrient needed to regulate digestion and create a full sensation to prevent overeating.
5. Vitamin B6 helps people sleep better and helps prevent type 2 diabetes not to mention aiding in weight loss.
6. There is evidence suggesting that bananas have the ability to ward off certain types of cancer. Eaten in moderation, the fruit is said to reduce the chance of kidney cancer thanks to high levels of phenolic and antioxidant compounds.
7. Besides the fruit, the inside of a banana peel is a useful home remedy for stained teeth. Rub the peel on the surface of your teeth and let it sit for about two minutes before rinsing off and brushing as usual. Repeat this every day and soon you will have brighter, whiter teeth to show off.
8. Adding a banana to your daily diet is a great choice that will improve bowel regularity and therefore keep your colon healthy.
9. Ripe bananas are a useful ingredient of skin regimens for people who want to boast smooth, glowing appearance. The antioxidants prevent cell damage and encourage the rapid replacement of dead cells to guarantee people's youthful skin.

Bananas pack hefty benefits but moderation is important if you want to enjoy them fully. A banana or two is enough to get your heart beating properly or perfect your eyesight. If you eat too many fruits you are likely to build up your blood sugar or spike the potassium in your system so high that it causes you harm. You should also try to get the healthiest, most fresh bananas you can find as unripe fruits aren’t that palatable.

With such positive health benefits and a great taste to boot, bananas make the perfect snack. Here are some ways you can enjoy them:

1. With toast and Nutella or peanut butter.

No time in the mornings to cook up a fancy breakfast? Pop two slices of whole wheat bread into the toaster, spread some Nutella or peanut butter over them, put some sliced bananas between the two slices of bread, and there you have it, a delicious and nutritious breakfast on-the-go.  

Thinking of making this fuss-free breakfast even more awesome? Try spreading both Nutella and peanut butter over your toasted bread.

2. With cereal or oats

If you’re tired of the taste of your usual cereal or oats, add some sliced bananas to them and drizzle some maple syrup or condensed milk over the mixture for a slightly sweeter taste.

3. Mashed with avocados. Sprinkled with chopped walnuts, raisins, or cranberries

If you’re stuck with too-ripe bananas and have no idea what to do with them, mashing them with avocados (either in a food processor, blender, or just by hand) creates a decent snack. Sprinkle chopped walnuts, almonds, or berries over the banana-avocado mixture to give it a crunchier texture. Alternatively, this mixture can also be used as a dip – the interesting savory taste of pita chips with the slightly sweeter taste of bananas and avocados is sure to leave your party guests wanting for more.

4. Banana s’mores

Movie night? Add a slice of banana to marshmallow, Nutella, and graham crackers before popping them in the oven for a tasty twist to the classic s’more recipe.

5. Banana smoothie

For a great post-gym drink, blend bananas, yogurt, milk, and honey for a sweet smoothie that is rich in potassium and calcium. This is a great low-calorie snack.  

6. One-ingredient banana ice cream

Ice cream does not always have to be a sinful treat. Slice some ripe bananas, freeze them overnight, and then throw them in a food processor the next day. Voila! You have just made banana ice cream and it’s ready for consumption. To sweeten the deal, blend in Nutella, honey, condensed milk, cinnamon, peanut butter, freshly squeezed lemon juice, or vanilla extract for that extra special taste.

7. Fruit salad

Throw together cubed apples, sliced bananas, grapes, berries, and any fruit you can find in your refrigerator for a quick and healthy midday snack. Fruit salads are best enjoyed while you are working on that ten-page paper or cramming for a final – you never have to worry about overeating.

8. On its own!

And if you are absolutely pressed for time, bananas by themselves make great stomach fillers while you are on the go. The best thing about this fruit? It tastes just as good on its own.  

Have fun going bananas!