Bananas
Bananas
Bananas are a naturally sweet, portable, and versatile fruit enjoyed by people of all ages. With their soft texture and mild flavor, bananas are ideal for quick snacks, breakfast add-ons, and even cooking or baking. At Benefit Market, bananas are a go-to option for wholesome energy, everyday convenience, and a wide range of health-supporting nutrients.
Nutritional Benefits
Bananas are a nutrient-rich fruit that offer more than just natural sweetness. A medium banana contains about 105 calories and provides around 3 grams of dietary fiber, which supports digestive health and helps keep you feeling full between meals.
Bananas are best known for their high potassium content. One banana delivers approximately 400–450 mg of potassium, an essential mineral that helps maintain fluid balance, supports healthy blood pressure, and contributes to muscle and nerve function.
They also contain vitamin C, which supports immune health and acts as an antioxidant, along with vitamin B6, which aids in brain function and metabolism. In addition, bananas provide small amounts of magnesium and manganese, which help regulate blood sugar and support bone health.
Because bananas are naturally low in fat and sodium and contain no cholesterol, they are a heart-healthy choice that fits easily into most meal plans.
Serving Tips
Bananas are one of the easiest fruits to enjoy—simply peel and eat. They’re ideal as a quick snack on their own or sliced and added to cereal, oatmeal, or yogurt for extra texture and flavor.
For smoothies, bananas add creaminess and natural sweetness without the need for added sugar. Blend with milk, nut butter, and ice for a satisfying drink, or freeze overripe bananas to use later in frozen treats or smoothie bowls.
Bananas are also popular in baking. Mashed bananas are a key ingredient in banana bread, muffins, pancakes, and healthy desserts. They help provide moisture and act as a natural sweetener.
Sliced bananas pair well with toast topped with peanut butter or almond butter, making for a quick breakfast or post-workout snack that offers a good balance of carbs and protein.
For younger eaters or anyone seeking gentle foods, bananas are soft, easy to digest, and often well-tolerated, making them a practical option for kids or those recovering from illness.
Health Suggestions
Bananas are a smart choice for fueling your body, especially before or after exercise. Their combination of natural sugars, fiber, and potassium helps restore energy and support muscle function.
If you’re monitoring blood sugar, pair bananas with a source of protein or healthy fat—like nuts or Greek yogurt—to help slow the absorption of sugar and promote more stable energy.
To reduce food waste, overripe bananas can be frozen and used in baked goods or blended into smoothies. You can also slice and dehydrate bananas for a portable snack with a longer shelf life.
At Benefit Market, bananas are a staple you can count on for easy nutrition, natural sweetness, and daily versatility. Whether eaten fresh or incorporated into recipes, bananas make healthy eating simple and satisfying.
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