Live Heather healthy with

This week campaigner and food writer Heather Mills talks to us about the beauty of bananas

Compared to an apple, the banana has four times the protein, twice the carbohydrates, three times the phosphorus, five times the vitamin A and iron, and twice the amount of other vitamins and minerals.

A banana is rich in potassium and probably one of the best value fruits around. They contain three natural sugars – sucrose, fructose and glucose.

Packed with fibre in its natural form, a banana gives an instant and continual energy boost. Research reveals just two can provide enough energy for a strenuous 90-minute workout.

Bananas are also good for…

Mild depression Many people often feel better after a banana as it contains tryptophan, a protein the body converts into the feelgood chemical serotonin.

PMS Vitamin B6 in the fruit helps regulate blood glucose levels, which can calm the nervous system.

Anaemia High in organic iron (inorganic is used in supplements), bananas can stimulate production of haemoglobin, which transports oxygen around the body.

Blood pressure and brain power High in potassium yet low in sodium, bananas help balance blood pressure. Students have been found to be more alert, getting better results, when eating them regularly.

Constipation Highfibre bananas help restore normal bowel function in some sufferers.

Heartburn Bananas have a natural antacid effect, reducing irritation by coating the lining of the stomach.

Morning sickness Snacking on bananas helps keep blood sugar levels up and reduces the chance of nausea.

Mosquito bites Try rubbing a bite with the inside of a banana skin. It is known to help reduce swelling and irritation.

Quit smoking The B6, B12, potassium and magnesium in them help the body recover from nicotine withdrawal.

Stress When stressed our metabolic rate rises, and potassium levels drop. The fruit’s potassium helps normalise the heartbeat and sends oxygen to the brain.

So what more reason do we need? Let’s go bananas!

Students are more alert and get better results after a banana