Banana Bits: The Perfect Fruit

With three natural sugars, fructose, sucrose and glucose plus fiber, bananas provide an energy boost. Two bananas have enough energy for a full 90-minute workout.

• One banana can supply 15 percent of the daily value of Vitamin C - which can help the body heal and defend against infection. Vitamin C also helps in iron absorption, in synthesis of connective tissue and blood formation.

• The vitamin B6 in bananas can help regulate blood glucose levels that may affect mood.

• The high iron content of bananas can stimulate the production of hemoglobin and helps fight anemia.

• High potassium levels, and low salt make this the fruit that helps control blood pressure. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration now allows the banana industry to make claims for the banana’s ability to reduce the risk of high blood pressure and stroke.

• The high fiber content of bananas can help restore normal bowel action and overcome constipation.

• Perfect for dieters: For healthy weight loss, get all the nutrients you need by eating a food full of nutrients but not high in calories. Bananas are nutrient dense and fat free.

• One medium sized banana has 110 calories and supplies 20 percent of the U.S. Recommended Daily Allowance of B6 and 11% of the U.S. RDA of potassium.