Fitness and Exercise

Regular exercise should be an important part of everyone's life. In 1996 the U.S. Surgeon General reported that more than 60% of U.S. adults do not engage in the recommended amount of activity for a healthy lifestyle and about 25% of adults are not active at all.

Research shows that physical activity can reduce the risks of dying from coronary heart disease and of developing high blood pressure, colon cancer, and diabetes. Exercise also strengthens your heart, lungs, bones and muscles. In addition, physical activity gives you more energy throughout the day and helps to control your weight.

Your body needs energy to exercise, and carbohydrates are the body's main source of energy. Bananas contain important carbohydrates that readily replace glycogen (stored glucose), which is used as fuel for your muscles. No matter the intensity of your exercise, from a marathon to a daily jog around the block, eating bananas is a great way to boast your energy and to provide you with greater endurance.

Not only does exercise burn available glycogen, but the advanced metabolic rate and perspiration requires your body to replenish essential vitamins and minerals, such as Vitamin C and niacin, and potassium, magnesium, calcium and iron - all supplied by bananas. For example, a deficiency of potassium can cause muscular cramps and greater susceptibility to injury. Magnesium and calcium are vital to the process of muscular contractions, and iron is needed to ensure that sufficient oxygen is transported to tissues during exercise.

The convenience and nutrition of bananas make them an ideal food to help prepare and sustain your body for fitness training and exercise. Grab a banana or two and toss them into your gym bag or enjoy them in your car on the way to the health club. Make physical activity a part of your daily routine, and eat bananas to support your maximum effort in achieving the greatest reward in life - your health.