The benefits of bananas make them the most widely consumed fruit in the world. Easy to produce and available all year round, bananas are a constant feature on the shelves of European station markets. From Africa, Latin America or the Caribbean, the different varieties of banana all have the same virtues. In this article, we'll look at the benefits of bananas.

How did banana cultivation spread throughout the world?

Contrary to popular belief, the banana originated in Madagascar. It was introduced by the Arabs all along Africa and Asia until it reached the Canary Islands. With the colonisation of Latin America by the Spanish, the banana took up residence mainly in this part of the world.

The diversity of ecosystems led to the production of several types of banana. The most popular are the dessert banana (Cavendish) and the plantain. However, there are also lesser-known species such as the small dwarf, the poyo, the Pisang Lilin and the red banana.

The benefits of eating this tropical fruit

From a taste point of view, bananas have a lot going for them. Nourishing by nature, its creamy flavour makes it an excellent fruit for your health. One of the benefits of the banana is its richness in trace elements and vitamins, making it a great source of energy. Bananas are very popular with sports enthusiasts, helping them to recover immediately after strenuous exercise. In fact, we strongly recommend eating it first thing in the morning. At breakfast, combined with porridge, energy yoghurt, jujube honey orblack cumin oil, it allows you to emerge quickly from a hard night's sleep.

How much energy does a banana provide?

Bananas are a relatively complete fruit. Very rich in calories, it is a considerable source of water and carbohydrates. This makes them a direct energy booster. Although vitamin C covers almost all the fruit's nutrients, it also contains a considerable proportion of organic substances. Which makes it a complete food. A significant source of potassium and calcium, it plays a major role in daily health and well-being. Regular consumption allows the body to assimilate a list of micronutrients in large quantities. Its excellent energy value helps to satisfy hunger and makes slimming cures easier.

Bananas are excellent for the intestinal flora

Bananas have a very specific role to play in regulating the body. First and foremost, it eliminates an enormous amount of toxins and harmful substances during intestinal transit. The enzymes present in the fruit act as a natural barrier against toxic products that the body might accidentally ingest. In a world where chemical substances are omnipresent, it acts effectively against the presence of heavy metals and pollutants in the body. In addition, it effectively restores gastric discomfort. It acts against heartburn and regulates acidity in the body. In a way, it acts as a natural dressing in the intestinal tract. How does it work? Quite simply by restoring irritated intestinal walls.

Among the benefits of bananas: strengthening bone mass

An obvious source of calcium, bananas strengthen the body's bones and muscles. But it doesn't stop there. It multiplies its benefits and virtues by ensuring healthy nails and hair thanks to its vitamin D content. It has an effective effect on physical resistance. However, it is best eaten as a snack. This heavy, high-energy fruit takes up a considerable amount of calories in meals. When combined with regular physical activity or walking, it is preferable to introduce it as a snack.

While the benefits of bananas are undeniable, they should not be eaten excessively. Overeating can cause diarrhoea.

Apart from this harmful effect, it helps to regulate blood pressure and cholesterol levels.

The future of bananas worldwide

Worldwide, banana production is substantial. It meets the needs of all countries. Imports and exports of this essential tropical product are doing well. However, since 2015, banana plantations have been threatened by "fusarium yellowing". This disease is caused by a fungus that ravages the fields. It is currently affecting three areas of the world. At present, the contaminated regions are Africa, Asia and the Middle East. The fight against this parasite requires large doses of pesticides. Palm groves are sprayed from the air. Impressive quantities of products are spilled. Of course, this has environmental repercussions for the soil and the people. First of all, farmers suffer from skin problems. The acids in the pesticides slowly eat away at their skin.

No visible danger for consumers

Fortunately for consumers, the thick skin of the fruit protects the pulp. As a result, the banana is one of the rare fruits not to be contaminated. It is therefore an exception to the rule. This is not the case for lettuce, strawberries or treated lemons.

Although the environmental cause is fundamental for the planet, food needs can still be met without causing harm to the consumer.

Alternatives, such as those used in the Dominican Republic, have been developed over the last ten years. They provide a guarantee of production quality and a label to compete with countries with overproduction. While organic bananas also have a bright future ahead of them, they are not suitable for all family budgets.

Bananas: good value for money?

Organic bananas cost on average twice as much per kilo as conventional bananas. They are smaller in size. For ordinary bananas, prices fluctuate throughout the year between 0.79 and 1.89 per kilo. The amount depends on a number of criteria, including

• Area of production and supply.
• Quality and variety of fruit.
• Supply and demand by country.

For example, the same fruit in the United States (the main source of imports) generally costs less in France.

While the law of the market may dominate, don't forget that this sublime fruit is a real asset for your health.