Bananas-You Will Never Look At Them The Same Way Again

I found a random article online about bananas.  I had to read it because bananas are one of my favorite things to eat, I usually eat at least one every day.  And if I go a day or two without a banana I honestly have withdrawals.  Here are some very interesting facts about bananas and the great things they can do for you!

Bananas contain three natural sugars-sucrose, fructose and glucose combined with fiber.  A banana gives an instant, sustained and substantial boost of energy.  So next time you are dragging don't reach for that energy drink that is so unhealthy for you, instead grab a banana for some instant and healthy energy!

Research has proven that just two bananas provide enough energy for a strenuous 90-minute workout.  No surprise then that the banana is the number one fruit with the world's leading athletes.

Energy isn't the only way a banana can help to keep you fit.  It can also help overcome or prevent a substantial number or illnesses and conditions, making it a must to add to your daily diet.

Depression: According to a recent study that was done by MIND amongst people suffering from depression, many felt much better after eating a banana.  This is because bananas contain tryptophan, a type of protein that the body converts into serotonin, known to make you relax, improve your mood and overall make you feel happier.

PMS: Forget the pills, eat a banana!  The vitamin B6 that bananas contain regulates blood glucose levels which can affect your mood.

Anemia: High in iron, bananas can stimulate the production of hemoglobin in the blood and that helps in  cases of anemia.

Blood Pressure: This unique fruit is extremely high in potassium and yet low in salt, making it perfect to beat blood pressure so much so that the US Food and Drug Administration has allowed the banana industry to make official claims for the fruit's ability to reduce the risk of blood pressure and stroke.

Brain Power: 200 students at a Twickenham school (England) were helped through their exams this year by eating bananas at breakfast, break and lunch in a bid to boost their brain power.  Research has shown that the potassium-packed fruit can assist learning by making students more alert.

Constipation: High in fiber, by adding bananas to your diet you can help restore a more normal bowel action, helping to overcome the problem without resorting to laxatives.

Heartburn: Bananas have a natural antacid effect in the body, so if you suffer from heartburn, try eating a banana for soothing relief.

Morning Sickness: Snacking on bananas between meal helps to keep blood sugar levels up and avoid morning sickness.

Mosquito Bites:  Before you reach for the insect bite cream , try rubbing the affected area with the inside of a banana skin.  Many people find it very successful at reducing swelling and irritation.

The banana is a natural remedy for many things.  When you compare it to an apple it has four times the protein, twice the carbohydrate, three times the phosphorous, five time the vitamin A and iron and twice the other vitamins and minerals.  It is also rich in potassium and is one of the best value foods around. 

Quinoa-Almond Salad

Adding toasted nuts to grains such as quinoa really brings out the flavor. Quinoa is higher in unsaturated (good) fats and protein and lower in carbohydrates than most grains so there are many reasons to include it in a healthy diet.



Quinoa-Almond Salad

Prep time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Servings: 6

1 cup uncooked quinoa, rinsed
2 cups water
1/2 tsp salt
1/2 cup coarsely shredded carrot
1/4 sliced almonds, toasted
1/4 cup dried cherries or cranberries

Balsamic Vinaigrette:
2 T chopped parsley
1 1/2 T canola or soybean oil
2 T balsamic vinegar
1/2 tsp salt
dash of pepper

Heat quinoa, water and salt to boiling in 2 quart sauce pan, stirring once or twice, reduce heat to low.  Cover and simmer 12 to 15 minutes until tender.

Remove saucepan from heat, let stand 5 minutes.  Fluff quinoa with fork, let cool 15 minutes.  Meanwhile, make balsamic vinaigrette.

Mix vinaigrette, quinoa and other ingredients in large bowl.  Serve warm or cover and refrigerate about 4 hours until chilled. 

1 Serving:  190 calories; 7g fat

Source:  eatbetteramerica