5 Common Ailments That The Humble Banana Can Help Treat

These days, they’re an over the counter drug for every little ailment. Constipated? Take a pill. Stressed out? Take a pill. What would happen if we suddenly didn’t have these things? What would we do? It’s important to know some natural ways to take care of yourself, and these are some things bananas can help us cure.

Constipation

Bananas contain a nutrient called pectin, which speeds up and assists digestion, as well as promotes the removal of toxins from the body. Overall, bananas stimulate the intestines. These impacts reduce flatulence and work as a natural laxative. I have a banana in a smoothie every morning, and I’m smooth as can be.

Stress

One thing stress does to us is speed up our metabolism, which can leave us feeling worse. When stressed out, potassium levels drop in the body, which means you can suffer hypertension and an abnormal heart beat. Bananas do contain potassium, and in conjunction with them, consider adding foods like spinach and cantaloupe. All three foods contain impressive amounts of potassium.

High blood pressure

High blood pressure is a very serious condition and if you have it, or think you have it, you should seriously consider visiting a physician. One of the reasons we have high blood pressure is because in a standard American diet, the intake of sodium is high while potassium is low. Consuming more potassium and less sodium is key to good cardiovascular health. Again, look to foods like spinach and cantaloupe to help get the potassium you need.

PMS

Bananas are rich in vitamin B6, which has a positive effect on glucose levels. This reduces pain in the abdomen and chest, reduces mood changes and water retention. Sounds like the perfect fix for PMS symptoms.

Depression

Typtophan is a protein found in the banana that stimulates the secretion of the hormone serotonin. Eating a banana might just make you feel better. But again, depression is a serious condition. Consult a physician if you’re feeling depressed.

Image credit: Fernando Stankuns, Flickr