Banana
Banana (bəˈnænə)
Banana is a common name for plants of the genus Musa and their edible fruit. They are native to Southeast Asia and are likely to have been first domesticated in Papua New Guinea. Today, they are cultivated worldwide for their fruit and as ornamental plants.
Etymology
The word "banana" is thought to be of West African origin, possibly from the Wolof word 'banaana', and passed into English via Spanish or Portuguese.
Description
Bananas are elongated, slightly curved fruits with a soft, starchy center covered by a rind, which may be green, yellow, red, purple, or brown when ripe. The fruits grow in clusters hanging from the top of the plant. They come in a variety of sizes and colors when ripe, including yellow, purple, and red.
Nutritional Value
Bananas are a significant source of several vitamins and minerals, especially potassium, vitamin B6, and vitamin C. They are also rich in dietary fiber and natural sugars, making them a source of instant energy.
Health Benefits
Bananas have several potential health benefits, including improved digestion, heart health, and weight loss. They are also known to help in reducing stress and enhancing mood due to their tryptophan content, a type of protein that the body converts into serotonin, a mood-lifting hormone.
Related Terms
- Musa: The genus to which bananas belong.
- Potassium: A mineral and electrolyte that is essential for the body's growth and maintenance.
- Vitamin B6: A vitamin that is beneficial for brain development and function.
- Vitamin C: A vitamin that is important for growth and repair of tissues in all parts of the body.
- Dietary Fiber: The part of plant foods that the body can't digest or absorb.
- Tryptophan: An amino acid that is important in the production of serotonin in the body.
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Banana
- Wikipedia's article - Banana
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