Bananas are a popular fruit enjoyed by people all over the world. They are known for their sweet taste and creamy texture, but they also offer a number of health benefits. In this article, we will explore the nutritional value of bananas per 100g and discuss whether or not they are healthy for you.
First, let’s take a look at the nutritional value of bananas per 100g. According to the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA), a 100g serving of bananas contains the following nutrients:
- 89 calories
- 0.3g of fat
- 22g of carbohydrates
- 1.1g of protein
- 3g of dietary fiber
- 12mg of calcium
- 0.26mg of iron
- 27mg of magnesium
- 358mg of potassium
- 0.31mg of zinc
- 0.1mg of copper
- 0.1mg of manganese
- 0.03mg of selenium
- 0.04mg of vitamin B1 (thiamin)
- 0.03mg of vitamin B2 (riboflavin)
- 0.8mg of vitamin B3 (niacin)
- 0.1mg of vitamin B6
- 0.07mcg of vitamin B9 (folate)
- 0.5mg of vitamin C
As you can see, bananas are a good source of several essential nutrients, including potassium, dietary fiber, and several B-vitamins. They are also low in calories and fat, making them a good choice for people looking to lose weight or maintain a healthy weight.
But what about the health benefits of bananas? There are many reasons why bananas are considered a healthy food. For example:
- Bananas are high in potassium, which is important for maintaining healthy blood pressure and heart function.
- The dietary fiber in bananas can help to promote healthy digestion and prevent constipation.
- Bananas are a good source of antioxidants, which may help to protect against certain types of cancer and other diseases.
- Some studies have suggested that the nutrients in bananas may help to improve brain function and protect against conditions such as Alzheimer’s disease.
- Bananas are a good source of energy, and they may help to improve athletic performance.
Overall, bananas are a nutritious and healthy food that can be enjoyed as part of a balanced diet. They can be eaten on their own as a snack, or added to a variety of dishes such as smoothies, oatmeal, or baked goods. Just be sure to eat them in moderation, as they do contain natural sugars that can contribute to weight gain if consumed in excess.
In conclusion, bananas are a nutritious and healthy food that offer a number of benefits. They are a good source of essential nutrients such as potassium, dietary fiber, and B-vitamins, and they may help to improve brain function, protect against certain diseases, and improve athletic performance. However, it is important to eat them in moderation and to include a variety of other fruits and vegetables in your diet as well.