Benefits of bananas make the fruit an ideal snack

KILEY CRUSE World-Herald Sta Writer

Bananas are an inexpensive, easy-to-pack snack that’s tasty and lling. It’s no surprise they are the most popular fresh fruit in America, according to the International Fresh Produce Association. What may be surprising is that bananas are a nutritional powerhouse. The fruit is packed with antioxidants, ber and essential vitamins. It’s often the rst solid food introduced to babies. But bananas are a great choice for big kids (and adults) too.

Banana Benefits

1. The high ber content in bananas leads to a feeling of fullness. So if your child is a picky eater, feeding them bananas can help to keep them feeling full longer.

2. Bananas are loaded with nutrients such as potassium, calcium, magnesium, iron, folate, niacin, B6, manganese, and many more.

3. Carotenoids found in bananas are converted to vitamin A. And vitamin A is essential for healthy eyesight.

4. Bananas may be the best-known source of potassium which can help grow and strengthen bones.

5. The fruit is rich in iron which can help prevent your child from becoming anemic.

6. Bananas are great fuel for your child’s brain. Potassium in bananas aids in blood circulation, thereby boosting the brain. The fruit can also increase your child’s concentration power which makes it a perfect study snack.

7. Bananas, which can give a good energy boost, are considered to be a great sports food choice. The carbohydrates in ripe bananas give instant energy. For a nutritional punch, use bananas in recipes. Quick breads and cookies are moister and sweeter when you substitute a little fat in a recipe with banana puree. Frozen banana chunks can make smoothies creamier and healthier. For a special breakfast treat, try banana bread doughnuts. And these Frozen Chunky Monkey Bites snacks are sure to be a hit any time of day.

Chunky Monkey Bites

• 2 ripe bananas

• ¼ cup peanut butter