June Parenting

Hi parents

Most of us know that bananas are a good source of vitamin C, potassium and fiber. They also contain no fat cholesterol and sodium.

Well, research has found that they also contain a rich supply of vitamin B6. Vitamin B6 helps in protein metabolism, red blood cell formation and the functioning of the central nervous system.

Bananas also contain more digestible carbohydrates than any other fruit. When consumed, it helps the body to burn off calories from carbohydrates more easily and quickly than calories from fat or protein.

Do you know that bananas also contain 3 natural sugars - sucrose, fructose and glucose. Hence, when eaten, it gives one the instant energy boost. This explains why bananas make good a before or after-workout snack, as it helps replenish the necessary carbohydrates, glycogen and body fluids depleted during exercise. And how many bananas do you need after a strenuous 90-minute workout? Just 2 will do. For diabetics and weight watchers, this is one fruit you want to avoid though.

Do you know that bananas do not grow on trees although we use the term banana “tree”. The fact is it is a perennial herb. Its trunk is not a true one but many leaves wrapped tightly around a single stem. This emerges at the top as the fruit-bearing flower stalk. So, the next time you see a banana “tree”, take a closer look again.

Each banana tree can continue producing fruit up to 100 years. Isn’t this amazing? However, most banana plantations renew their stock every 10 to 20 years. Botanically, banana is classified as a berry. It is from the same family as ginger, tumeric and cardamom.

And how many varieties of bananas are there??? 400 - could you believe that??? And how many have you tried??? And it is the world’s best-selling fruit, after apple and orange.

For other aspects of bananas, refer to http://www.juneparenting.com/2007/03/13/going-bananas/

So parents, if you or your children are involved in strenuous activities, try eating bananas and see the results for yourselves.

Happy trying . . .

Posted on April 28th, 2008 by June
Filed under: Food and Juices