About Bananas

The most popular fruit in the world with over 1,000 different varieties, grown in over 150 countries.  They have been used as a food source since at least 500 BC.  It is thought there original origin comes from Southeast Asia.  The word “Banana” itself comes from Africa as derived from the Arabic word for “finger”.  An interesting fact – the banana plant is not a tree, it’s the world’s largest herb!

Why use Bananas?

Bananas have various health benefits and help sweeten your smoothie.  If you make a smoothie and it’s a little sour or tart, try adding some banana to it and it will calm the tartness down.  Bananas contain a protein called tryptophan, which convert in your body to serotonin.  Serotonin is known to promote relaxation and improve mood.

Smoothie Trick:

Most people are very particular about the ripeness of their bananas.  When your banana starts turning brown, it contains higher levels of antioxidants and produce a substance called TNF (Tumor Necrosis Factor).  TNF contains anti-cancer qualities!  The darker your banana, the higher it’s immune fighting benefits.

Here is what you can do … let your banana ripen to your desired amount.  Then peel, cut in half, and freeze.  Then add the frozen banana to your blender and you will have the ripeness to your desire with every smoothie you make!