Here’s Why You Should Snack On a Banana

Here’s Why You Should Snack On a Banana

 

1. Increased Energy

Sports drinks, energy bars and electrolyte gels are extremely popular nowadays, however you often see professional athletes eating bananas just before and even during their sports. A large banana has 16.6 grams of sugar, according to the U.S. Department of Agriculture. The sugar in a banana is different from refined sugars in cookies and candy, however. Your body uses the natural sugar in bananas, fructose, to produce glucose, which fuels your brain and gives you energy.

2. Improved Digestion

Most of us don’t get nearly enough fiber in our diets. Fiber is needed to help food travel smoothly through the digestive tract. It also improves your bowel movements. Bananas are a great source of dietary fiber.

A couple of bananas is a better choice than taking a laxative to treat occasional constipation.

3. Treat Skin Conditions

Even the banana’s skin has its uses. It is great for treating skin conditions like psoriasis and acne.

Rub the freshly peeled inside of the banana skin gently over the affected area and leave the residue to be absorbed. The fatty acid content of the banana skin helps relieve a variety of skin conditions, as well as having a strong moisturising effect.

4. Improved Moods and Stress reliever

Bananas are a good source of the amino acid tryptophan which your body converts to serotonin.

Amongst many other things, proper serotonin levels help improve your mood, reduce stress and enhance your general outlook and happiness levels. It also helps regulate your sleep patterns.

Tryptophan is an essential amino acid because the only way your body gets it is through your diet. Bananas, while certainly not the highest source out there, are one of the easiest ways to get a little more tryptophan. Another reason why bananas make such a great snack for when you’re feeling stressed out at work.

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