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Bananas: Nature’s Perfect Snack?

Amanda

Nov 3, 2019

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They’re yellow, brimming with health benefits, satisfyingly sweet, easily accessible, and even get better with age. Bananas are the whole package. Sealed in a smooth and fibrous, protein-packed peel, they are, in essence, nutritious dreamboats that make for the perfect snack.

Going Banana for the Benefits

Are you feeling crampy? Eat a banana. Heading out to dinner with friends but need a bite before? Banana. End up drinking that dinner with friends and need help the next day? Banana.

Let’s not forget—the various forms the banana can pull off. Mix pieces with yogurt, throw them in a salad, cover one in chocolate, bake it into a pudding, or build it a shrine for being one of the most versatile, miracle fruits we take for granted.

It’s no wonder the word bananas itself is synonymous with the word crazy. It’s crazy to consider that they can offer such rich value at a low cost.

In further praise, peep our slide show for the deets on just how GR8 these natural delights are.

A plastic mold of a human kidney displaying kidney stones

Image by Robina Weermejer / Unsplash

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Kick Kidney Concerns

The high levels of magnesium and potassium in bananas make them an ally for your kidneys. In fact, consuming them can help to prevent kidney stones. Check your potassium levels before ramping up your banana intake.

Diabetic male pricking his fingertip with a needle to check blood sugar levels

Image by Photo Mix / Pixabay

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Safe for Diabetics

As long as they are consumed conservatively, the low glycemic index of bananas makes them a safe sweet snack for those with diabetes. Note: underripe bananas contain the least amount of sugar.

Man eats banana while training in the gym

Image by / Shutterstock

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Pre and Post Work Out Perfection

Bananas are filled with minerals and contain carbs that are easily digested. This makes them an ideal companion to those who are active. They are especially helpful for menstrual cramps that may deter exercise, as well as muscle cramps and soreness associated with being active.

woman looking over her shoulder and smiling with her phone resting on the counter

Image by Brooke Cagle / Unsplash

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Mood Enhancers

Bananas contain high levels of a substance called tryptophan, which is converted to serotonin when consumed. This means they can help to lift and regulate mood.

Image by Getty Images

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Digestion Aid

Bananas contain high concentrations of magnesium and fiber, which are ideal for digestion. They help to curb cravings and feel fuller. Resistant starch is especially high in bananas as well, which can help with weight loss, and promote a healthy gut.

Image by Getty Images

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Heart-y

Rich contents of potassium make bananas an advocate for the heart, as well. The potassium aids in blood flow and bananas' low sodium content is perfect for protecting against heart disease. They can also help with heartburn.

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Amanda

GR8NESS Writer

Amanda is a GR8NESS contributing writer who lives in celebration of self care, and endeavors to approach all things with a student mentality. Her love for the study of self-development is rooted in fitness, holistic wellness, and skin care. She is an advocate for mental health; and hopes to connect others to their own way of daring to care.

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