Calories are units of energy that our bodies use to function properly. They come from the foods and drinks we consume and are essential for providing us with the energy we need to carry out our daily activities.

Bananas are a popular fruit that is enjoyed by people all over the world. They are a good source of nutrients, including potassium, fiber, and vitamin C. But how many calories are in a small banana?

Overall, a small banana typically contains around 90-100 calories. This is based on an average size for a small banana, which is about 6 inches long and 1.5 inches in diameter. This size is considered to be a medium banana, and it is typically the size that is used to calculate the nutritional content of bananas.

A small banana is defined as one that is about 6 inches long and weighs about 100 grams. According to the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA), a small banana contains about 90 calories. This is based on the average nutritional content of a small banana, which includes 23 grams of carbohydrates, 1 gram of protein, and 0 grams of fat.

Other varieties of bananas, such as plantains and red bananas, tend to have a slightly higher calorie content. A small plantain, for example, may contain around 110 calories, while a small red banana may contain around 120 calories. It is important to keep in mind that these are just estimates, and the actual calorie content of any particular banana can vary.

It’s important to note that the number of calories in a small banana can vary slightly based on a number of factors, including the size of the banana, its ripeness, and how it is prepared. For example, a small banana that is very ripe and has brown spots may contain slightly more calories than a small banana that is less ripe and has a yellow peel. Similarly, a small banana that is baked or fried may contain more calories than a small banana that is eaten raw.

In addition to the calories, a small banana also provides a variety of other nutrients. As mentioned earlier, it is a good source of potassium, which is an essential mineral that helps to regulate heart function and fluid balance in the body. A small banana contains about 422 milligrams of potassium, which is about 12% of the recommended daily value for adults.

A small banana is also a good source of dietary fiber, which is important for maintaining bowel health and helping to lower cholesterol levels. A small banana contains about 3 grams of dietary fiber, which is about 12% of the recommended daily value for adults.

Finally, a small banana is a good source of vitamin C, which is an important nutrient that helps to support the immune system and protect the body from free radicals. A small banana contains about 8.7 milligrams of vitamin C, which is about 15% of the recommended daily value for adults.

In conclusion, a small banana contains about 90 calories and is a good source of nutrients, including potassium, fiber, and vitamin C. While the number of calories in a small banana can vary slightly based on a number of factors, it is generally a healthy and nutritious food choice.