Bananas are one of the most convenient natural healthy snack foods you can have.
They’re portable because they come with their own container (their peel), they add sweetness to your recipes without added sugars, they are high in nutrients your body needs, they are rich in potassium, they can help promote healthy blood pressure, protect heart health, and support kidney function.
Because they’re high in fiber, they are also good for your digestive system.
They’re easy and great in smoothies, added to fruit salad, or slathered with almond butter.
Nutrition Facts
1 medium banana contains:
80 calories
75% water content
23 grams carbs
12 grams sugar
3 grams fiber
Contain antioxidants dopamine and catechins
Unripe bananas contain resistant starch, which is good for gut health
Recipe
This is a classic one … with oats, bananas, and peanut butter.
THREE INGREDIENT PB-BANANA SNACKS
(Makes 4)
● 1 cup (80 grams) rolled oats (gluten-free, if possible)
● 1½ large overripe bananas
● ¼ cup (65 grams) peanut butter
● (optional: ½ tsp baking powder)
Preheat your oven to 350ºF (175ºC). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
In a large mixing bowl, smash the bananas – use a fork or potato masher. Add the rolled oats and peanut butter (and baking powder if using) and stir well to incorporate.
Divide the batter into 4 equal-sized portions and form balls. Place on the baking sheet and press down using the back of a fork, into a circle.
Bake for about 10 minutes, until they start to become golden. Remove from the oven and let cool on the sheet for another 10 minutes. Finish cooling on a wire rack.
For more healthy recipes, schedule an appointment to see Dr. Stephanie Bristow, ND today!