Bananas

Bananas are one of the most nutritional and healing fruits readily available today. They are 76% water and are packed with vitamins such as vitamins C and B6 and minerals such as potassium, copper, and manganese. This high water/nutrient ratio makes them a great electrolyte food perfect for busy moms, workout enthusiasts, and people on the go. Bananas are also an excellent “brain food” great for heavy thinkers and are known to help build strong muscles as well as strengthen the nervous system. Bananas contain powerful anti-fungal and antibiotic compounds as well as protease inhibitors which can help stop viruses in their tracts. This makes them highly beneficial for chronic illnesses such as shingles, epstein barr, parkinson’s disease, multiple sclerosis, arthritis, chronic fatigue syndrome, and lupus. Bananas are also particularly good for lowering blood pressure, irritable bowel syndrome, neurological disorders, diarrhea, atherosclerosis, osteoporosis, coronary artery disease, chron’s disease, stroke, and kidney, colon, and lung cancers. Bananas contain high levels of fructooligosaccharides (FOS) which along with insulin helps to promote nutrient absorption and assimilation. Bananas support the natural acidophilus bacteria in the bowel which helps promote a healthy and functional digestive tract as well as keep the immune system healthy and strong. Bananas can prevent ulcers by strengthening the surface cells of the stomach lining which helps to create a thicker barrier against digestive acid and pepsin-the two main causes of ulcers. Bananas are also an excellent food for athletes as they can help replenish energy and revitalize the body instantly. Bananas are rich in the amino acid tryptophan which can help to promote sleep and regulate the sleep-wake cycle. Bananas can be blended with a little water to make a sweet and creamy “milk” that is both dairy-free and hypo-allergenic. Banana “milk” is a great alternative for children and infants who are allergic to dairy and soy proteins. Bananas can also be cut into pieces, frozen and placed into a blender or food processor for amazing dairy-free and fat-free ice creams and “milk”shakes. Bananas should be ripe when eaten which means the peel should be lightly speckled and the fruit has a sweet, creamy taste. Unripe bananas can cause constipation and other adverse reactions. Bananas are a fantastic healing and nourishing food that is a great addition to a healthy diet. They can be readily found at your local grocery and health food stores.