Calories in a Banana
Calories in a Banana
Originating from South East Asia, bananas are believed to be one of the first cultivated fruits in the Western society. Actually classified as a berry, bananas are popular as a handy and tasty source of fuel. They are good for taking as a snack and easy to digest when exercising. They have also long been renowned for medicinal properties.
Surprisingly bananas are also a good remedy for diarrhoea, as they apparently soothe dyspepsia (upset stomach. They also help strengthen the stomach lining against acid and ulcers.
Calories in a banana are relatively low for a substantial food though the calories in a banana are higher than in other fruits.
How many calories in a banana? Quick facts
Per 100g of banana there is 95 calories and less than half a gram of fat which is good for dieters! Banans also provide 17mg calcium, 78mcg carotene, vitamin B6, vitamin C and around 88mg of potassium.
Potassuim is an essential nutrient present in a fluid form in body cells and acts as an electrolyte along with other minerals like sodium, chloride, calcium and magnesium. It helps maintain the heart, brain, kidney, muscles tissues and other body in a healthy condition. It plays an important role in sending nerve signals and increases body metabolism to use proteins, fat and carbohydrates for energy.
Deficiency of potassium causes inactive reflexes, fatigue, heart palpitation, anemia, headaches and weakness in muscles. Other severe effects are high blood pressure, swelling in glands, diabetes and pain in the intestines.
Bananas are the perfect pre-packed snack and best eaten raw when completely yellow or yellow with brown speckles. If you are using for baking or frying as a tasty desert they are best used before complete ripe as the heating process can turn already ripened bananas over mushy. Try not to add any sugar or other sugary topping to keep the calories in your banana desert low. Try adding some ground cinnamon and ginger sprinkled on top of the cooked banana for some spice. Alternatively sprinkle with ground All Spice for a warm spicy winter desert.
Due to their texture bananas are perfect for smoothies and add substance to a smoothie made with other more water based fruits such as oranges and berries.
Check out the calories counter for bananas here for more facts about calories in a banana.
Useful links
Calories in Fruit Counter
Food calorie counter
Alcohol calorie counter
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What Diet: Calories in a Banana
