A banana gives you instant energy and is great for your stomach health? It makes for a great snack option between meals and keeps you away from those hunger pangs.

• Banana is loaded with calcium, potassium, magnesium, manganese, folate, iron, niacin, B6 and riboflavin. All these nutrients are important for the overall functioning of the body.

• Banana has both insoluble and soluble fibre present in it. The soluble fibre keeps you full for a longer period and helps to slow down the process of digestion. It is one of the reasons why they should be consumed during the morning time for breakfast.

• In anaemia, there is a decrease in the haemoglobin levels as there is a decrease in the number of red blood cells. Banana has a high iron content which makes it a good option for people suffering from anaemia.

• High consumption of salt increases your blood pressure. Banana has a high potassium content with a low salt content making it an ideal choice for people with blood pressure issues.

• The potassium content of bananas is really good, which helps in regulating blood pressure, heartbeat and keeps your brain alert. Potassium helps to transport nutrients in our body, supports muscle function and healthy nerves along with helping to maintain normal blood pressure. The adequate intake of potassium is very much important, and one should be consuming foods that have good potassium content. Banana is a well-known source of potassium, but other foods have more potassium than a banana-like the ones mentioned below:

– Coconut Water – It consists of good amounts of potassium, magnesium, sodium, manganese and calcium, thus, making it a great hydrating drink.

– Beetroot – It is a good source of folate and potassium along with nitrates that help to support heart health.

– Potatoes – These starchy vegetables provide good potassium content.

– Tomato Paste – It provides good amounts of potassium along with vitamin C and lycopene.

–  Also includes Avocados, Sweet potatoes, Spinach, Watermelon, Pomegranate, etc.

These foods have more potassium content than a banana per serving. One should aim at getting good content of potassium from all these plant foods in their daily diet to boost their immunity and overall health as a cyclist.