Fasting has been shown to be effective in the prevention and/or treatment of many chronic health conditions, such as obesity, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, stroke, cardiovascular disease and type 2 diabetes. Bananas are a starchy carbohydrate, rich in potassium, iron, manganese, vitamins A and C, and numerous B vitamins. Utilizing bananas during fasting can be helpful to stabilize blood sugar levels, protect electrolyte balance, and limit loss of lean muscle mass.
Improving Mood
Bananas contain tryptophan, an amino acid that the body can use to produce serotonin, which might improve mood and clarity, and promote feelings of relaxation and well-being. Vitamin B6 helps regulate glucose levels, which might also help in improving your mood.
Stabilizing Blood Sugar
Eating several slices of banana every three hours during fasting provides the body with an easily absorbable source of carbohydrates. Fasting with bananas can provide a steady flow of carbs that can protect against hypoglycemia and dizziness, which are sometimes seen during water-only fasts.
Balancing Electrolytes
Bananas contain natural sugar, potassium, magnesium and some calcium, which can help maintain electrolytes during the fasting period. Electrolytes are responsible for maintaining proper hydration, nerve and muscle function in the body.
Hydration
Adequate fluids should be consumed while fasting to facilitate detoxification, elimination and proper hydration. The Mayo Clinic recommends drinking eight 8 oz. glasses of water per day. Additional water might be needed depending on the amount of fruit eaten during the fasting period.
Protecting Lean Muscle Mass
After 24 hours of fasting, glycogen stores are generally depleted, and the body will then begin to break down protein and fatty acids for energy. Although metabolic rate will slow slightly during the fasting period, adding a small amount of carbohydrates through the day might help slow protein catabolism.
Healthy GI
Bananas contain pectin, a soluble fiber that promotes healthy elimination. Bananas are considered a natural antacid, neutralizing acid in the the digestive system that can cause indigestion, heartburn and ulcers. Bananas are rich in fructo-oligosaccharides, which nourish friendly bacteria in the colon.
Hyperkalemia
Hyperkalemia is a condition in which the blood contains too much potassium. Due to the fact that bananas are high in potassium, long-term fasting on bananas alone might not be recommended. It is wise and recommended to contact a physician before beginning any sort of a fast.
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