Our collective attention remains riveted on the intensifying cyberwar between battling Instagram accounts Bananas of Concord and Apples of Concord. Both accounts have racked up some serious number of followers and generated a school-wide buzz. At the time of printing, Bananas of Concord has the most followers and likes, suggesting that bananas might just win as the Concord Academy student body’s selection for the tastiest—and possibly the healthiest—choice. Yet, do bananas deserve such an honor? Are bananas truly healthy to incorporate into a daily diet?
For reference, here are the nutritional facts of an average banana, scientifically known as Musa, from the US Department of Agriculture:
- Calories: 105
- Water: 75%
- Protein: 1.3 grams
- Carbs: 27 grams
- Sugar: 14.4 grams
- Fiber: 3.1 grams
- Fat: 0.3 grams
- Potassium: 0.422 grams
- Vitamin C: 0.0103 grams
The banana’s long-term nutritional benefits for people of all ages are worth noting. Do you exercise a lot and need help with recovery afterward? A banana can help. Do you lack fiber in your diet? Eat a banana. Are you concerned about blood pressure or blood sugar? A banana can fulfill your needs. Plus, bananas are a wildly healthy fruit to eat considering that heart disease is the leading killer of Americans each year and a study published in the Journal of American College of Cardiology suggests that regularly consuming bananas is linked to a 26 percent lower risk of heart disease. There is little wonder why Bananas of Concord is edging ahead online.
Bananas’ natural sugar content also makes them appetizing. Popular preparation methods include adding sliced ones into your morning cereal or oatmeal, using bananas as a butter or oil replacement or a natural flavor enhancement in baked goods, and making banana smoothies. And, of course, you can always eat them plain.
While bananas sound like the perfect staple for every diet, significant exceptions do exist. For instance, scientists disagree over bananas’ benefit to people with type 2 diabetes. Bananas might also trigger migraines or allergic reactions in sensitive populations. Rarer side effects include bloating, gas, cramping, softer stools, nausea, and vomiting.
Eating apples is likely to have similar pros and cons to eating bananas. Therefore, each individual should choose the healthiest choice for them. Both bananas and apples have their benefits and limitations, and despite the hilarity of each account, you should consult a nutritionist should consuming bananas, apples, or any kind of fruit raise concern. Once your favorite fruit is confirmed to be harmless, enjoy and remember to support your fruit on Instagram. CA has a choice to make, but when the community is empowered with good research and advice, we are confident that this lighthearted and riveting online battle will come to a satisfying, nutritious end.