Banana
The banana is not actually a piece of fruit, but is in fact a giant herb - did you know that?
It serves as a staple food in many countries, and it's not hard to see why with all of these health benefits.
There are plenty of suspicions surrounding bananas that eating too many can actually be bad for your health, thanks to their high levels of potassium. But considering that the average banana contains only 12 per cent of the recommended daily dose for adults it would take quite a few to be 'too many'.
The potassium inside them however helps to replace electrolytes which are lost from a heavy night of drinking, so they can be a big help the morning after. Plus, they can help restore normal bowel function, helping with those post-drinking stomach problems.
The high levels of potassium can also aid with the proper function of all cells, tissues and organs. It may also play a role in lowering blood pressure and protecting again hypertension.
Bananas also contain significant amounts of vitamin C, which is great to help with colds, stress and lowering stroke risk, and also vitamin B6 helps promote healthy skin and hair.
All types of fruit and vegetables contain plant chemicals or phytochemicals known as antioxidants. These antioxidants protect cells in the body against damage from free radicals that can cause heart disease and cancer.
Don't forget their help with weight loss, the average banana contains three grams of fibre, which helps to keep us full and stop us from munching our way through the day.
Finally, bananas are the perfect post or pre workout snack as they are slighty higher in energy than other fruits and the calories mainly come from carbohydrate.
Two small bananas are said to provide enough fuel for an intense 90-minute workout.
Femalefirst Taryn Davies
Tagged in Nutrition Diet Healthy eating Super Food Diet tips