FruitsTropical Fruits

Banana (Medium)

Evidence-based nutritional information, health benefits, and longevity research for banana (medium). Serving size: 118g (1 medium banana, 7-8 inches)

105
Calories
1.3g
Protein
0.4g
Fat
27g
Carbs

Complete Nutritional Profile

Per 118g (1 medium banana, 7-8 inches)

Macronutrients
Calories105 kcal
Protein1.3g
Carbohydrates27g
Fiber3.1g
Sugar14.4g
Total Fat0.4g
Saturated0.1g
Monounsaturated0.04g
Polyunsaturated0.09g
Omega-30.03g
Sodium1mg
Vitamins
Vitamin C10.3 mg
Vitamin B60.43 mg
Folate24 μg
Riboflavin0.09 mg
Minerals
Potassium422 mg
Magnesium32 mg
Manganese0.32 mg
Copper0.09 mg
Phosphorus26 mg
Phytonutrients & Bioactive Compounds
Plant compounds with health-promoting properties beyond basic nutrition
Dopamine: Antioxidant (does not cross blood-brain barrier)
Catechin: Antioxidant flavonoid
Resistant starch (in green bananas): Prebiotic fiber

Health Benefits

Evidence-based health benefits of banana (medium)

Excellent potassium source (12% DV) for blood pressure regulation

Good source of vitamin B6 for metabolism and brain function

Provides quick energy from natural sugars

High in resistant starch (when less ripe) for gut health

Convenient portable fruit

May help regulate blood sugar despite natural sugars

Supports heart health through potassium content

Longevity & Healthspan Research

Latest scientific evidence on banana (medium) and healthy aging

Higher fruit consumption associated with lower cardiovascular mortality and stroke risk
Aune et al., International Journal of Epidemiology 2017Meta-analysis (95 studies)
Adequate potassium intake (from foods like bananas) associated with 20% lower stroke risk
D'Elia et al., Journal of the American College of Cardiology 2011Meta-analysis
Resistant starch from less-ripe bananas improves gut microbiome diversity
Keenan et al., Nutrition Bulletin 2015Review

How to Use Banana (Medium)

Optimal Intake

1-2 bananas daily. One medium banana = 105 calories, 1.3g protein. Excellent pre/post-workout snack. Choose less ripe for lower sugar, more resistant starch.

Preparation Methods
  • Less ripe (greener) bananas: Lower sugar, higher resistant starch (prebiotic)
  • Ripe (spotted) bananas: Sweeter, easier to digest, antioxidants increase
  • Freeze for smoothies
  • Add to oatmeal or yogurt
  • Pair with nut butter for protein and fat balance
Bioavailability Tips

Potassium highly bioavailable. Ripeness affects resistant starch content - greener bananas have more prebiotic fiber.

Food Synergies
Combine with these foods for enhanced benefits
  • Pair with peanut butter for protein, fat, and sustained energy
  • Add to Greek yogurt for complete breakfast
  • Combine with berries for antioxidant variety
  • Pre-workout with coffee for energy boost
Contraindications & Considerations
  • Banana allergy (rare)
  • Those on potassium-restricted diets (kidney disease) should limit
  • May need to limit with diabetes due to natural sugars (though fiber helps regulate)
  • Latex-fruit syndrome: Those with latex allergy may react to bananas