The healthy midlife snack
Most people in midlife will have a risk factor for early disease such as high cholesterol, high blood pressure, obesity, smoking and sedentary lifestyle. About half of Australians will have three or more of these risk factors. We need to reduce our risk of an early demise by being active and making smart food choices. Fat-free bananas are naturally filling so they are the perfect alternative to fatty snacks.
They’re also packed with B vitamins to help keep you on the go, and are one of nature’s richest sources of potassium. Potassium helps muscles contract, and assist in proper functioning of the body's heart and kidneys. Research also suggests that a diet high in potassium, and low in salt, may reduce the risk of high blood pressure and stroke. Bananas are also a great source of antioxidants that help promote health by preventing body cell damage, which can lead to early disease. Folate and a type of fibre called resistant starch, both present in bananas, are believed to be beneficial in preventing colon cancer. The fibre in the banana also helps keep adults regular. One banana provides as much fibre as 1-2 slices of multigrain bread.
