33 useful properties, 12 contraindications, application. The benefits and harms of banana for the health of women, men, skin, hair

1. Gives strength and energy.

Bananas provide a powerful and fast energy boost that improves performance and endurance. And this is very useful not only in the gym, but also in any situation that requires the brain involved in the work. This effect of the “energy bomb” is easily explained: bananas contain fast carbohydrates, which are instantly broken down into sugars, which are used by the body for energy.

2. Provides potassium to the body.

Banana contains 10% of the daily value of potassium – not much, but banana is considered one of the sources of this micronutrient. Bananas are often recommended for potassium deficiency. A deficiency of potassium in the body provokes problems of brain, heart and muscle activity. But the use of bananas, rich in this trace element, gives the following effects:

3. Improves the functioning of the digestive system.

Bananas, like other fruits, contain fiber. One banana is a tenth of the daily value of the dietary fiber the body needs. Fiber is a product that supports the smooth functioning of the digestive system.

4. It is a delicious antidepressant.

The amino acid tryptophan, found in bananas, helps regulate serotonin, one of the “happiness hormones”. Normal serotonin levels will lift your mood and prevent the onset of mental disorders, including groundless anxiety and depression. Antioxidants, which are abundant in bananas, are the keys to triggering the release of dopamine, the second hormone responsible for well-being. Dopamine helps to significantly increase energy, reduce fatigue, stress and maintain a positive attitude.

5. Slows down aging.

The usefulness of bananas is also due to the content of manganese in them. Almost 14% of the daily value for this element can be found in just one fruit. In addition, it is also a powerful source of vitamin C (over 11% of the daily value), which is involved in the production of collagen, which maintains youthfulness and elasticity of the skin.

6. It is a convenient and healthy snack.

The calorie content of a medium-sized banana is about a hundred calories. Banana is preferred over other options for possible snacks because it contains a large amount of natural nutrients that the body needs, fiber and water. Plus, it’s the perfect choice for those with a sweet tooth, as banana is completely free from processed, artificial ingredients (unlike pastries, candies and cakes).

7. Improves heart health.

A report from Harvard Medical School suggests that low potassium levels cause abnormal heart rhythms. Potassium-rich bananas can help counteract this problem. However, too much potassium is also bad for the heart. The heart is smooth muscle and depends on potassium to contract and expand properly. Low potassium levels are a condition called hypokalemia and can lead to an increased heart rate.

8. Reduces blood pressure.

According to the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute, banana is one of the fruits to be taken for heart health. Potassium helps lower blood pressure levels, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. But be careful with potassium supplements – never take it without consulting your doctor. One study says that eating two bananas a day sometimes lowers blood pressure by up to 10 percent. According to the American Heart Association, potassium reduces the effects of sodium.

9. Improves brain health.

Bananas are also rich in vitamin B6, which improves cognitive function. One study from Tufa University found that people who had diets rich in vitamin B6 performed better on memory tasks. Deficiency of this vitamin also causes confusion, depression, and peripheral neuropathy. Eating bananas daily improves brain strength and nerve function. Bananas also help boost concentration.

10. Reduces the risk of stroke.

Banana helps prevent stroke in old age. And eating bananas in postmenopausal women reduces the risk of stroke by 12 percent. According to the American Academy of Neurology, people with low potency levels are 1,5 times more likely to suffer from a stroke. While this does not affect hemorrhagic stroke caused by sudden bleeding (a less common type), it does not include ischemic stroke (which accounts for 80 percent of cases).

11. Strengthens bones.

According to the National Osteoporosis Foundation, the potassium in bananas is good for bone health. Bananas are also a good source of silicon, which some preliminary studies have shown promotes bone health. And magnesium is another essential nutrient for bone structure.

12. Treats diarrhea.

Bananas help treat diarrhea by replacing the electrolyte. Because these fruits are rich in potassium, they replenish this nutrient in the body that is lost due to diarrhea. There is one specific diet designed for a quick recovery from diarrhea. This diet is called BRAT – bananas, rice, applesauce and toast. It is especially effective for babies and children with indigestion.

13. Treats a hangover.

Potassium is one of the minerals that causes subsequent alcohol consumption and therefore dehydration. For a quick hangover, you can make a banana milkshake sweetened with honey. Banana calms the stomach, honey replenishes sugar levels, milk calms and hydrates the body. The glucose and electrolytes in bananas also help heal hangovers.

14. Whitens teeth.

The potassium, manganese and magnesium found in ripe banana peels help whiten teeth. You can simply rub your teeth with the peel and wait about 10 minutes before brushing as usual. But even without using these tricks, the magnesium in bananas will help whiten your teeth.

15. Reduces stress.

Since the potassium in bananas lowers blood pressure, it helps reduce stress. And the carbohydrates, which are rich in bananas, have a relaxing effect, as carbohydrates produce serotonin, a neurotransmitter that soothes. The fruit also contains dopamine, which soothes the nervous system and reduces stress.

16. Helps fight cancer.

The yellow banana is healthy. But a brown or spotted fruit is even more beneficial. The more brown spots, the greater the tumor necrosis factor (TNF). Research suggests that TNF is an anti-cancer drug that helps fight abnormal cells in the body. Thus, yellow bananas with dark spots are about 8 times more effective at fighting bad cells than bananas with green peels.

17. Reduces inflammation from mosquito bites.

This is where the banana peel comes to the rescue again. The sugars in the peel can help flush fluid out of the mosquito bite. It is necessary to rub the banana peel into the damaged area of ​​the skin, and the inflammation will go away. But before using the peel, you first need to disinfect the affected area.

18. Strengthens the immune system.

Banana contains copper, which improves immunity by protecting cells from damage during chemical reactions. Copper is also an essential component of enzymes that metabolize iron, which is vital to the immune system. Bananas also contain vitamin C, which stimulates the production of vital white blood cells. It protects white blood cells from the chemicals they release to kill pathogens. Banana lectin – a protein that promotes the immune response, in the future can kill deadly viruses (especially those that cause AIDS).

19. Helps to quit smoking.

People who smoke often have higher blood nicotine levels, which in turn prompts them to smoke again. This triggers a cycle of unhealthy smoking habits. The potassium and magnesium in bananas are said to lower blood nicotine levels, thereby helping smokers resist craving.

20. Good for diabetics.

This claim is controversial, but some research suggests that banana is beneficial for diabetics, but it is best to consult a doctor. It is important for diabetics to know the amount of carbohydrates in the diet, which raise blood sugar faster than other nutrients. About 93 percent of the calories in bananas come from carbohydrates in the form of sugar, fiber, and starch. Fiber, also known as dietary fiber, helps slow the digestion and absorption of carbohydrates. It helps regulate blood sugar levels. Another important factor is the glycemic index. For bananas, it ranges from 42 to 62, depending on their ripeness. This means they have a low glycemic load. The glycemic index works in the same way as dietary fiber – it controls blood sugar levels.

21. Helps treat anemia.

Anemia, especially when caused by pregnancy, can be treated with the correct dosage of folate. This nutrient is a form of vitamin B found in foods, and bananas are high in it. Also, vitamin C in bananas helps to properly absorb iron, which is necessary to fight anemia. Vitamin B12 helps treat pernicious anemia (when the body does not produce enough vitamin B12). The copper in bananas also helps in the absorption of iron.

22. Reduces body temperature.

Sweating, diarrhea and vomiting are some of the common symptoms of fever. These symptoms deplete the body’s stores of potassium and cause weakness. Bananas will help restore stocks. They will also replace lost electrolytes, thereby speeding up recovery. Flavonoid compounds in fruits reduce inflammation and boost immune activity, which consistently helps fight high fever.

23. Improves mood.

As long as bananas help stabilize blood sugar levels, they will boost your mood. Also, vitamin B6 found in bananas relieves stress and anxiety. Bananas are an excellent source of tryptophan, an amino acid that stimulates the production of serotonin. Bananas stabilize mood swings – especially those associated with PMS. However, excessive consumption of vitamin B6 can harm the nervous system. Some conflicting research suggests that the serotonin in bananas does not cross the blood-brain barrier – and therefore is not always effective in boosting mood.

24. Helps treat hemorrhoids.

According to the Pacific College of Oriental Medicine, eating a banana on an empty stomach every day helps in the treatment of hemorrhoids. With bleeding hemorrhoids, the norm will be to eat three bananas a day.

25. Treats insomnia.

The potassium and magnesium in bananas help relax muscles and stimulate sleep. Tryptophan has been shown to heal numerous sleep disorders. In addition, bananas contain melatonin, which helps treat insomnia.

26. Eliminates menstrual pain.

Painful sensations during the menstrual cycle may be associated with potassium deficiency. Fortunately, bananas contain a sufficient amount of it. Bananas can also relieve menstrual muscle cramps. Both vitamin B6 and potassium prevent water retention and prevent bloating (a common symptom during periods).

27. Useful during pregnancy.

Banana reduces the manifestations of toxicosis, diarrhea and constipation. The vitamins and minerals contained in bananas provide nutrients not only for the mother’s body, but also for the baby’s body. Bananas stimulate the production of oxytocin, which is responsible for a happy childbirth and a high concentration of milk.

28. Moisturizes the skin.

Bananas are a great natural skin moisturizer. Vitamin A, present in bananas, restores lost moisture and repairs damaged and dry skin. To instantly moisturize dry and dull skin, wash a ripe banana, chop the pulp and apply it all over your face. Avoid contact with eyes. Leave it on for 20-25 minutes and then wash it off with warm water.

29. Refreshes the skin.

Bananas are high in vitamin C, which contributes to the skin’s natural glow. To prepare the mask, mash a ripe banana until smooth. Now add the same amount of milk and mix well. If you have dry skin, you can add a few drops of olive oil. Apply the mixture to your face and leave it on for 20 minutes, then rinse.

30. Reduces signs of aging.

The nutrients in bananas help fight wrinkles and keep skin looking youthful. The vitamin E in avocados, combined with the nutrients in bananas, fights free radicals and repairs damaged cells. For an anti-aging face mask rich in vitamins A and E, combine avocado and banana. Leave the mask on the skin for 20 minutes, then wash off. Your skin will be soft and youthful.

31. Helps in the care of the feet.

The moisturizing properties of bananas can be used to repair chapped feet. All you need to do is squeeze the pulp out of two ripe bananas and apply to clean, dry feet. Leave this mass for 10 minutes, then rinse your feet with cold water. Banana pulp penetrates deeply into dry, chapped skin, thereby softening the feet.

32. Treats bags under the eyes.

The nutrients in bananas soothe the blood vessels under the eyes and reduce the swelling of the skin around the eyes. All you need is banana pulp. It must be applied to the area around the eyes, hold for 15–20 minutes, and then rinse with cool water. The potassium in banana draws excess fluid from under the skin, reduces puffiness and eliminates bags under the eyes.

33. Improves the health and appearance of hair.

Bananas contain folic acid, which contributes to the natural shine of hair. It keeps hair hydrated and well hydrated. The potassium in banana and other natural oils also improves hair health. Combine the ripe banana with the avocado and add the coconut milk to the mixture. Apply it to your hair and wait 15-20 minutes. This mask will leave your hair soft. Whenever you use a banana as a hair mask, make sure it is a smooth consistency, without lumps. Never let the mask dry on your hair. It should stay damp when you wash your hair so that you can easily get rid of the flesh that tends to stick.

34. Increases potency.

When bananas are consumed, the male body, like the female, receives the hormone oxytocin. This hormone affects the potency of men, prevents premature ejaculation and improves the quality of sexual life.

35. Improves fertility.

Fertility is a beautiful word for a man’s ability to procreate. Bananas improve sperm quality and sperm motility, thereby improving fertility.

1. Not recommended in the presence of diabetes mellitus.

If you have trouble maintaining normal blood sugar levels, bananas are best avoided or consumed in very moderation. If you can’t imagine a day without bananas, try switching to unripe fruits. Studies have shown that these bananas have a lower glycemic index and sugar, which is much slower to digest. Therefore, to maintain normal sugar levels and a stable weight, start eating this fruit less ripe.

2. Does not contribute to weight loss.

If your goal is to lose weight, watch and follow point 1, otherwise bananas can provoke an even greater appetite and add extra calories you don’t need. Comparing bananas to other fruits and berries, it should be noted that they contain less fiber and more sugar. Fiber helps slow the absorption of sugar into the bloodstream. The high carbohydrate and sugar content should be equal to the fiber content (and ideally less). This will prevent a sharp jump in blood sugar and its subsequent rapid decline.

3. May cause migraines.

If you are often bothered by excruciating migraine attacks, you are better off avoiding bananas in your daily diet. Tyramine – a substance found in many foods such as cheese, fish, meat and bananas – is a trigger for headaches and migraines, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center.

4. Cause hyperkalemia.

An excess of potassium in the body sometimes causes nausea and an irregular heartbeat, which can later lead to a heart attack. According to research by the Linus Pauling Institute of the University of Oregon, 18 grams of potassium per day can cause hyperkalemia.

5. Promote tooth loss / crumbling.

High in starch, bananas can cause severe tooth decay, especially if you don’t practice good oral hygiene. According to some studies, bananas can be even more harmful to oral health compared to candy, red liquorice, and chewing gum. Starches dissolve slowly in the mouth. Therefore, when you eat foods like bananas, the particles remain between your teeth for about two hours and thus more bacteria are formed.

6. Cause drowsiness.

Bananas can make you feel sleepy, even if you are just starting the day. They are rich in tryptophan, an amino acid that slightly reduces mental performance and reaction time. Bananas contain high doses of magnesium, a mineral that helps relax muscles. These properties, however, make bananas a good snack before bed.

7. May cause nerve damage.

Because bananas contain high amounts of vitamin B6, excessive consumption of bananas can damage the nerves. According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, it has been confirmed that B6 sometimes causes nerve conduction damage.

8. Cause a reaction in hypersensitive latex allergic patients.

If you’re allergic to latex, you’d better avoid bananas. Symptoms such as wheezing, runny nose, cough, itchy throat, and watery eyes are common with this allergy. Another problem associated with latex allergy is inflammation. Bananas can cause a narrowing of the airways and therefore breathing problems, leading to severe difficulty breathing or swallowing.

9. Cause abdominal pain.

Eating insufficiently ripe bananas runs the risk of severe stomach pain, which can cause nausea, vomiting, constipation, or diarrhea. Unripe bananas contain heavy doses of tannic acid, which has an inhibitory effect on the digestive tract. Tannic acid interferes with the secretion of gastrointestinal fluid and proper gastrointestinal motility.

10. May have anaphylactic shock side effects.

Some banana allergy sufferers may also experience a severe immune response with a sharp drop in blood pressure. Their respiratory problems inhibit blood levels and they can experience anaphylactic shock. Research has shown extreme cases of banana allergy, even in babies. Experts say that when giving a banana to their children, parents should be careful about it as a potential allergen.

11. Promote gas and bloating.

Bananas contain soluble fiber and fructose, which can cause gas and bloating. If you suddenly increase your fiber intake or consume large amounts of it, it will take a lot of effort for your gut to dissolve the fiber, and this causes gas.

12. May not be combined with medications.

If you have heart problems and your doctor has prescribed beta blockers for you, cut back on your banana consumption. This drug causes an increase in the level of potassium in the blood, and there is already enough in bananas. The combination of beta blockers and bananas can cause dangerous increases in blood potassium levels. If you are taking oxazolidinone antibacterials, you need to control your banana consumption. These fruits contain tyramine, which causes a dangerous increase in blood pressure when combined with the above drug. Check with your doctor about the possibility of eating bananas.

Banana Nutritional Value (100g) and Percent Daily Values:

• The nutritional value
• Vitamins
• Macronutrients
• Trace Elements

Not every product boasts such a huge list of benefits. No wonder banana is one of the most demanded fruits in the whole world. However, consider the possible harm from eating bananas. Still, it is not suitable for everyone, especially if you have health problems.

Sources of Research

1. Before training.

The easily digestible carbohydrates and potassium in bananas help support nerve function. By consuming a banana before exercise, your body will be able to maintain high levels of nutrients. It will be easier for you to train, you will be full of strength and energy for a quality workout.

2. For breakfast as a snack.

You can eat banana for breakfast by adding it to your porridge. Or make a banana milkshake. Although banana can instantly raise energy levels and mood, after a while you may feel tired and hungry. To avoid this, eat bananas in combination with protein foods such as eggs, cottage cheese, etc.

3. Adding to dishes.

Banana can be added to all kinds of dishes to taste. It is most commonly added to milkshakes, yoghurts, cereals, ice cream and baked goods. You can skillfully decorate dishes with a banana.

4. In cosmetology.

Banana is rarely used in professional cosmetics. Female representatives resort to preparing masks, scrubs, lotions, hair conditioners based on banana or mixing it with other products (avocado, olive oil, etc.) for this purpose, use both the banana pulp itself and its peel.