Bananas have always been one of my favourite fruits. If you think bananas are just for monkeys… think again. But hey we are part monkey after all right? And a banana was probably the first solid food that you ever ate as a baby. But more to the point. 

HAVE YOU HAD YOUR BANANA TODAY??

Bananas are great for maintaining healthy digestion, lowering blood pressure and curbing appetite. They are dubbed natures energy snack and are great brain food to help keep you alert at work. Because they are rich in potassium, bananas are good for heart and kidney health as well as bone density. They nourish healthy bacteria in the digestive system and help the body to absorb nutrients and resist bacterial infection.

Nutritionally, a banana is a powerful package. The number one quick source of carbohydrates for many athletes or people working out, a banana will give you a sustained and substantial energy boost which is quickly digested and converted to muscle fuel, great for pre or post workout nutrition. They are easy to transport in your handbag (just don’t forget about it), backpack, work draw or car so they make the perfect on the go snack.

How can you look at a banana the same way again after discovering the amazing health benefits and many reasons to add them to your diet DAILY! and why wouldn’t you when they GO WITH ABSOLUTELY EVERYTHING!

Smoothies >> recipes here

Ice cream (recipe below)

Nut-free Banana Granola bars >> recipe here

Banana date Muffins >> recipe here

Chocolate Mug cakes >> recipe here

Coconut and Peanut butter Pancakes >> recipe here.

In fact I don’t think there are many of my clean living recipes that DON’T use a banana.

Oh and have you tried making nana ice cream. Simply blend up 3-4 frozen bananas with some coconut mylk and when its thick and creamy serve straight up or put it in the freezer for later. Top with chia seeds or cacao nibs for an extra crunch. Try adding Matcha green tea powder (Matcha maiden is my go to) for a gorgeous colour and antioxidant kick. Green tea ice cream is the new thang!!!

NOT CONVINCED YET? TRY THIS CREAMY BANANA AVOCADO SMOOTHIE BELOW.

CREAMY BANANA AVOCADO SMOOTHIE RECIPE – serves 1

1 ripe banana (fresh or frozen)

1/2 avocado

1 cup dairy, soy or almond milk

1tsp cinnamon

1Tbs raw honey

1Tbs chia seeds

1Tbs peanut butter

Handful of ice

Place all ingredients in a blender and blend until smooth and creamy. Enjoy!!

K