Few foods have the impressive credentials that bananas do. Not only are they packed with good-for-you nutrients but they are available in grocery stores year round, not seasonal like some fruits are. Bananas are so popular that most stores allocate a large section of their produce department to them.
Any time a banana is consumed you can have confidence that you are getting quality nutrition in every bite. They do not contain the things everyone knows are bad: saturated fat, sodium, and cholesterol. They are bursting with the nutrients the body needs to function properly: fiber, potassium, vitamin C, and vitamin B6.
It is important to choose bananas that will last for several days after purchasing them. Select bananas that have a slight green color on the stem, as well as on the tip (at the opposite end). They need to be firm and should not have any bruises.
After they have ripened at room temperature, they can be stored in the refrigerator where they can last up to two weeks longer. Do not be alarmed when the skin turns black or brown at refrigerator temperatures. This is normal. They will still be fresh and can be peeled to eat when desired.
A study conducted at Appalachian State University found that bananas are as favorable in athletic performance as sports drinks are. The extra added benefit to consuming bananas in place of sports drinks is that bananas provide athletes with nutrients that sports drinks cannot provide, like those previously mentioned. Bananas also have antioxidants that protect the body at a cellular level.
Bananas can be bought in both conventional form and in organic form. A recent visit to Fresh & Easy stores in Las Vegas uncovered an interesting fact many consumers may be unaware of. One organic banana costs about $0.36, only $0.17 more than a conventional banana. A small price to pay for presumably better health? Each consumer must determine that for him or herself.
Bananas can be enjoyed in so many different ways. Eat them plain, or in cereal, yogurt, ice cream, protein shakes, parfaits, and in baking to make various treats. After all, bananas can be an essential addition to anyone’s diet.
References:
http://snap.nal.usda.gov/resource-library/whats-available-winter/bananas
www.fruitsandveggiesmorematters.org/banana-nutrition-selection-storage
http://extension.usu.edu/files/publications/publication/FN_Food$ense_2012-03pr.pdf
www.news.appstate.edu/2012/05/28/bananas-are-beneficial/
Comments