Nobody Ever Got Diabetes From Eating A Banana

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“B” is for Banana

As a clinical nutritionist, it never ceases to amaze me when I hear that someone won’t eat a banana because they think they’re too high in sugar or that they’re not allowed on their diet because they have too many carbohydrates in them. I mean, c’mon! Nobody ever got diabetes from eating a banana! In fact, bananas have numerous health benefits and help to prevent a number of illnesses and conditions, making them a must have in our daily diet.

For example, did you know that bananas contain vitamins including B6 and B12, as well as have iron, potassium and magnesium? The Vitamin B6 a banana has helps to regulate blood glucose levels, and the iron they have helps to stimulate the production of hemoglobin in the blood. A banana is also high in potassium yet low in sodium, therefore, making it an excellent choice in the treatment of high blood pressure. According to research published in the New England Journal of Medicine, eating bananas as part of a regular diet can help reduce the risk of death from strokes by as much as 40%! In fact, the U.S Food and Drug Administration has even given the banana industry the thumbs up to make official claims that the banana has the ability to reduce the risk of high blood pressure and stroke.  

Bananas are also good for the treatment of heartburn providing a natural antacid effect in the body and they are good for the treatment of morning sickness due to their soothing effect. In addition, they are high in fiber, which helps restore normal bowel function as well as helps prevent constipation without resorting to laxatives.

Here’s more food for thought. Research has shown that bananas can improve learning by helping to make students more alert. In a study that involved 200 students, those who ate a banana at breakfast actually did better on their exams. And for those who may be suffering from a hangover, a banana milkshake sweetened with honey, helps to calm the stomach, replete blood glucose levels and re-hydrate the body.

Finally, bananas contain tryptophan, a natural mood enhancer that can help aid in the relief of Seasonal Affective Disorder. Surely, bananas must be the reason why monkeys are so happy all of the time. Perhaps then, given all of the benefits of a banana, the expression ought to be, “A banana a day keeps the doctor away!” Not to suggest that apples are not healthy or have their own health benefits. In fact I could write another article just on the benefits of an apple. I guess what this really all comes down to is that we need to be getting more fruit in our diet in order to help the body deal with the stressors of daily life and so that we may reap the health benefits that can be obtained from our food. So, here’s to bananas. Eat and enjoy!