Gone Bananas!

by Kelly Murphy Fitness Program Coordinator | Manasquan Club

I like to say that the banana is the perfect food. Convenient, cost effective, versatile, and best of all high in nutritional value. The banana is low calorie, easily digestible, and a good source of fiber. Best of all is the abundance of Vitamin B6, magnesium, and potassium in the banana. These vitamins and minerals help to regulate blood pressure, reduce weakness, insomnia, and irrability, and provides essential energy for proper muscle function.

A banana is a perfect choice for a post exercise snack. During a work out your body loses important vitamins and minerals. The nutrients from a banana help to replace lost vitamins and minerals and replenish your energy levels. Pair a banana with a protein packed glass of low fat milk or cup of greek yogurt for a perfect combo of carbohydrates and protein to refuel you after your work out.

Here are some of my favorite “banana snacks”.

Banana Roll-Up: Perfect for a quick breakfast or a healthy after school snack for kids:
Whole Wheat Tortilla
Banana
Peanut Butter or Almond Butter

Spread 1 tablespoon almond butter or peanut butter on whole wheat tortilla.
Wrap tortilla around banana and cut into fours.
For a hint of sweetness drizzle 1 tsp. of honey over banana before rolling.

Store in air tight container in refrigerator for a quick grab and go breakfast or snack.

Banana Pops: The perfect sweet tooth satisfier:
4 bananas
Dark chocolate melted
Unsweetened coconut flakes
Popsicle sticks

Cut bananas in half.
Insert popsicle sticks into cut end of banana
Dip half of banana in melted chocolate
Place on baking tray lined with parchment paper
Sprinkle with coconut
Place in freezer for at least 2 hours

For a nuttier treat, replace coconut with chopped walnuts.

*** Tip: Don’t throw away uneaten over ripe bananas. Instead, cut into fours and place in air tight zip lock bags. Put in freezer and use frozen banana chunks in your smoothies!

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