9 Amazing Things That Happen When You Eat Bananas
Who would’ve thought that one of the most common fruits in the world can offer such a wide range of health benefits?
That’s right, I’m talking about bananas. To some they seem banal, while others see it more as a kid-friendly food. However, these 10 nutritionist-checked facts can help you acknowledge the importance of this delicious fruit to any diet:
Captain’s Tip: The riper the banana, the more nutrients you get!
Building muscle
Muscle soreness is a great sign that your workout program helps you make progress. However, if you’re feeling severely sore and don’t notice any muscle growth in time, you may be secretly suffering from a magnesium deficiency.
Luckily, bananas are an excellent source of magnesium you can enjoy after each fitness session. This fruit can increase muscle contraction and relaxation while promoting protein synthesis. The process of protein synthesis is essential for repairing muscle tissue and increasing lean muscle mass.
Another bonus? Increased magnesium intake can boost lipolysis – the process during which your body releases extra fat stored previously. Bananas also provide you with a decent amount of satiety, which prevents cravings and helps you lose extra pounds.
If you’re not a huge fan of bananas, you can actually make a delicious tea by putting the ends of a banana (still in its peel) in boiled water for 7-10 minutes. Drink your tea every night before bed and enjoy its positive health benefits in the long run!
Improving your mood
Have you ever thought about how much bananas resemble a smile? It might be a coincidence or it could signal how much this yellow fruit uplifts your mood.
A single banana provides you with 6% of your Recommended Daily Intake (RDI) of vitamin B9, commonly known as folate. According to data from the National Institutes of Health, folate is a great tool for fighting depression and anxiety as it boosts the production of a hormone crucial for maintaining a good mood: serotonin.
Serotonin is popularly called the ‘feel good hormone’ or the ‘love hormone;’ this is the magical chemical your brain needs to stay happy (and healthy!).
A study published in the Indian Journal of Psychiatry found that patients diagnosed with depression usually have 25% lower folate levels than other participants. Some specialists also recommend taking a folate supplement along with your antidepressants to enhance their positive impact. However, it’s always best to discuss this option with your doctor first.
