Banana time- anytime

We know them by their colour and shape, and whether they are eaten raw or cooked, they are undeniably, a delicacy. While many of us eat them for their nutritive value, others simply like their taste.

Bananas are good for babies too and are in fact among the first solid foods given to infants. Bananas have no fat, are easy to digest and very few children are allergic to them. They are also one of children’s best snacks because of the taste and their good carbohydrate content that meets the energy needs of growing children.

Nutritive value

A banana is rich in potassium and also contains minerals like calcium, iron, magnesium and phosphorus in large quantities. It is also rich in fibre making it a useful laxative and good for easing constipation. It is rich in Vitamin C and also contains other vitamins such vitamins A and B.

A banana contains about 90 to 93 calories per 100g; hence fewer calories are absorbed into the body compared to other foods. This alleviates unnecessary weight gain. As mentioned, it is very low in saturated fat, cholesterol, and sodium.

Health benefits

The nutritional value of a banana solves many dietary problems and disorders including: weight loss, constipation, bowel problems, anaemia, blood pressure, heart problems, ulcers, depression, stress and morning sickness.

Recipe

» Banana smoothie
» Ingredients 1 banana
1/2 cup natural yoghurt
1 tbsp honey
1 cup ice-cubes
» One, two, three steps:
» Cut the banana into pieces
» Blend all ingredients till creamy
» Serve immediately in interesting colourful cups for your children.

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