Learn about the benefits that bananas offer to athletes
Click here to read about Healthy Foods That Increase Stamina.
Potassium
Bananas are popular for being rich in potassium, a mineral essential to optimize athletic performance. This mineral is a critical component in several bodily functions such as the movement of muscles, regulating the water levels in the body, and preventing muscle cramps. According to the Institute of Medicine’s Food and Nutrition Board, adults get 4.7 grams of potassium per day, athletes may need more than that to avoid a potassium deficiency, which can cause a dangerous increase in blood pressure. A banana provides nearly 500 milligrams of potassium, giving athletes a quick dose of that vital mineral.
Tyrosine
Being mentally present in game is critical for an athlete’s success. A banana contains 12 milligrams of tyrosine, an amino acid that, that combines with a banana’s vitamin content to help your brain produce norepinephrine, a chemical similar to dopamine. This can increase an athlete’s alertness, ability to focus and level of motivation, making a banana a good water-break snack during a game or athletic event.
Instant Energy
Bananas are an instant and effective energy source for athletes due to its substantial carbohydrate and sugar content. These carbs and sugar from bananas can provide the added energy to help keep the mind and body active throughout the activity. With around 30g of total carbohydrates in each medium-sized banana, it’s an excellent and delicious way to get a quick boost of energy.
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A Sleeping Pill
A good sleep is a basic requirement for every human being as it prevents diseases and keeps us active throughout the day. Eating a banana before bed can do wonders. They are a great source of magnesium and potassium which help relax overstressed muscles. Additionally, they contain tryptophan, which converts to serotonin and melatonin that are known to be the brain’s key calming hormones, having a soothing effect on the body in general.
Vitamin B-6
Athletes have to endure lengthy periods of physical exertion, so they require more vitamin B-6 than other people. Vitamin B-6 helps your body release energy from nutrients and helps reduces the risk of heart disease and certain kinds of cancer, according to the National Institutes of Health’s Office of Dietary Supplements. One banana gives you .5 milligrams of vitamin B-6, supplying you with about one-third of your recommended daily intake for that nutrient.
Iron and Vitamin C
Bananas make it easier for the body to absorb iron thus putting an end to your food cravings and anemia. Iron helps your body transport oxygen during aerobic activities and people who regularly engage in vigorous exercise are particularly vulnerable to iron deficiencies, according to the Sports Nutrition Department at Montana State University. One banana gives you .35 milligrams of iron and 12 milligrams of vitamin C which helps new cells to form and supports your immune system.
Anti-Depressant
Eating a single banana can help you treat depression and stress, which are amongst the biggest metal disorders. Many athletes face a lot of stress and depression owing to the demanding nature of their sport. The good news is that they can tackle this problem without having to compromise on their health. Indulging into a delicious banana will not only help you fight anxiety, but it will also improve your sleeping pattern by increasing the production of melatonin in your body.
