Here is a term that is not heard much anymore: “Going Bananas”. This term became popularized on college campuses in the 1960’s and refers to a person being incredibly enthusiastic, angry or unhinged. Gwen Stefani sang about this in her very popular song “Hollaback Girl”. (I know for a fact that during the Giants-Eagles game Saturday night, many fans from both teams, including me will “Go Bananas” during and after the game…and for my Eagles fans patients out there…do NOT start texting me if your team wins…okay?)
Let’s now turn to the real “Going Bananas” and what I am referring to is eating bananas as part of a weight control strategy. Here are the nutritional facts about a medium size banana:
- Calories: 105
- Fat: 0.4g
- Sodium: 1.2mg
- Carbohydrates: 27g
- Fiber: 3.1g
- Sugars: 14.4g
- Protein: 1.3g
- Potassium: 422mg
- Vitamin C: 10.3mg
- Magnesium: 31.9mg
Many people refer to a major benefit of bananas being their potassium content. However, potassium, similar to any vitamin or mineral can be replaced by taking a supplement pill that has zero calories or carbs.
The use of fruit in encourage in our program, albeit in modest portions. Bananas certainly fit the criteria of a “healthy” fruit but due to the carb contents, the amounts should be limited. So, feel free to “Go Banana” (as in singular) and not “Go Bananas” (as in consuming multiple ones a day).
And today’s video is NOT a Frank Sinatra, Neil Diamond or Barry Manilow song…Here is Gwen Stefani singing a song that discusses bananas…enjoy (or not).
