For Those Who Believe in a Banana Free Diet:

Monday, April 19th, 2010

There are many reasons people believe they should not eat Bananas. Among these are some of my favorite;

1) “Bananas are not good for women because they add skin layers over the abdomen and inhibit the visibility of the “six pack” ”
2) Bananas are high in fat
3) Bananas are high in Carbohydrates, and therefore cause weight gain

Bananas contain Tryptophan, an amino acid, which the body converts into serotonin. Currently, it is illegal to purchase Tryptophan  in supplement form in Canada, however your Naturopath might prescribe something called 5-HTP. This is a “precursor” to Tryptophan. Meaning the liver converts 5-HTP supplements into Tryptophan. This supplement is prescribed for a few reasons. Among these are; sleep disturbances, overly large appetite, and depression.

In any case, Bananas contain this fabulous chemical. They are considered the “feel good” fruit. And I can attest to this- bananas have saved me from the dreaded 3′oclock carb rage. They are very low in fats, and contain an above average healthful amount of carbohydrates. Don’t be scared however, these are GOOD carbs. Bananas help to maintain stable blood sugar and can also get rid of a sugar craving with a little patience; if you wait about 20 minutes after eating 1 or 2 bananas, and let the natural fruit sugars reach the blood stream. Bananas also contain high levels of Potassium and this helps to hydrate the body and supply needed electrolytes. Electrolytes help to improve the function of the nervous system and “electricity” of the body. Bananas have a high amount of Vitamin A and small amounts, but a full range of, the B vitamins. These vitamins are what keep your brain functioning properly. B vitamins are arguably, among the most “important” of the nutrients needed by the body, particularly with regards to mental well-being, focus, and feeling alert. They are also high in Magnesium, which helps to calm the body, along with a small amount of calcium.  High amounts of Phosphorus and Folate are present in bananas as well.

Generally, the smaller bananas are better in terms of pesticides and toxic GMO’s. (Genetically Modified Organisms). Because they are (usually) not pumped full of steroids to make them bigger. Remember, the bigger the banana does not equal more nutrition. This can also mean that it has a higher level of “empty nutrition” due to any injected material to make the fruit grow more quickly. As well, choose organic or local, but don’t assume that you’re always safe.

To try something new: try Plantains. They are like bananas, but larger, greener, less sweet, and you have to cook them.

*According to research in “The New England Journal of Medicine”eating bananas can cut the risk of stroke death by as much as 40%!.

Many cultures around the world use bananas “medicinally” to treat an array of diseases and imbalances. They are said to encourage hemoglobin production, aiding the healing process of Iron deficiency.

Bananas are about 60 calories per medium sized banana. They also taste like dessert when you freeze them and are REALLY good in a smoothie made with chocolate soy milk, matcha powder, protein powder and ice.

*for more facts, questions, answers, and tips visit http://www.banana.com/

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