Can be dangerous for health: nutritionist told who should not eat bananas

Banana is one of the most popular fruits in the world (although botanically it is a berry). It is not only tasty and convenient in terms of consumption, but also has many health benefits.

The fruit has a pleasant taste, a rich nutritional composition, it can be used in cooking. However, does it have contraindications? Let’s deal with the doctor.

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The benefits of bananas for health

Nutritionist, sports nutritionist, nephrologist, Hadassah Clinic branch.

“Banana can be eaten when losing weight, and it is indispensable when exercising.”

The fruit is unique in its silicon content, an important anti-aging micronutrient. It is involved in the synthesis of collagen, necessary to maintain the elasticity of the skin, blood vessels, tendons and ligaments.

The fruit is an excellent source of vitamin B6 and magnesium. This combination of substances has a positive effect on the work of the central and peripheral nervous system.

Moreover, the product contains tryptophan. This amino acid is a precursor of serotonin and melatonin. The first hormone has a positive effect on mood, and the second is necessary for quality sleep.

Banana, especially green banana, is an important source of pectins, essential for a healthy intestinal microflora. These substances are a natural absorbent.

Potassium is another essential macronutrient found in the fruit. It regulates water and salt metabolism and is necessary for the normal functioning of the heart muscle.

The content of carbohydrates in different bananas is different: on average – 25 g. This allows you to quickly replenish energy, which is especially important for athletes. For example, professional athletes are recommended to eat about 70 g of carbohydrates per hour during the first hours after intense physical activity. The exact amount is determined according to weight (1-2 g of carbohydrates per 1 kg of body weight).

A diet extremely low in carbohydrates increases the stress response to exercise, so carbohydrates should be an important part of an athlete’s diet.

Who should not eat bananas?

Despite the rich nutritional composition and great health benefits, there are a number of diseases in the presence of which it is better to reduce the consumption of bananas or completely refuse them.

So, people with irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) and syndrome of excessive bacterial growth (SIBR) are not recommended to eat bananas often. The fact is that they can cause flatulence and abdominal bloating due to the large amount of soluble fiber and sugar alcohols.

Potassium, which is rich in the product, is excreted almost completely by the kidneys. Therefore, people with chronic kidney disease and usually, as a consequence, hyperkalemia (increased concentration of potassium in the blood) should refuse this fruit.

In addition, caution should be exercised by people taking drugs from the group of potassium-saving diuretics. Such a combination may increase the likelihood of an increase in blood potassium levels in the presence of a corresponding risk (renal failure, hyperkalemia).

In yellow bananas with brown spots on the peel, starch is more easily converted into simple sugars and increases blood glucose levels more quickly. Therefore, it is undesirable to consume them for diabetics.

How many bananas are allowed per day?

A healthy person per day is allowed to include in the diet up to two portions of banana. It should be remembered that they are relatively high in carbohydrates, so it is recommended to consume them together with protein or fat-rich foods to maintain a stable energy level.

The specific amount of bananas that can be eaten daily depends on the individual’s physiology, diet and lifestyle. Therefore, it is worth consulting a specialist for precise recommendations.