San Diego Nutrition and Health

Tonight as I’ve been doing a little reading about the benefits of bananas, I’ve thought of the Man in the Yellow Hat and his pet monkey.  If you are a child of the 80’s you may recall this popular book character duo.  Funny how memories and food get associated. 

You may be aware that banana’s are high in potassium, but this is only one of banana’s noteworthy benefits.   Let’s take a look some other benefits:

* Getting ready for a strenuous 90-minute workout?  Researchers say that two bananas will provide you with enough energy for the workout. 

* Bananas contain Tryptophan which is a protein that your body converts to serotonin.  Serotonin is the feel-happy, relaxing, mood enhancer, brain chemical.  MIND, a mental health charity in England, did a study where they found that those suffering from depression felt much better when they ate a banana. 

* The potassium in bananas has been shown to be a powerful brain booster.  This benefit can be especially good for students.

* Bananas protect the stomach against ulcers and ulcer damage by creating an antacid effect within the stomach. 

* Bananas also help with high blood pressure because they are low in salt, but high in potassium. 

I like to make a healthy treat by blending a banana, some almond milk, a teaspoon or two of carob powder, a few drops of stevia and some ice cubes.  Very refreshing and the perfect alternative to a ice cream milkshake.