Many people suddenly want to be healthy, taking extra vitamin C supplements, multivitamins, getting a flu vaccine, and even trying super foods like “banana” that recently have been controversial because of this so-called social media hype... Banana cha-cha! Are we just going bananas over this?
Recently, there was this video circulating online claiming that banana is apparently a super fruit that will prevent a person from getting infected with this dreadful COVID-19. So, it was no surprise that next day, the price of banana went overboard and was selling like hotcakes. From the local saba variety, up to the elegant lacatan and all the varieties available in the market, like the face mask and alcohol, bananas may just be the next out of stock fruit or the next big thing on the online market. The Department on Health had clarified and issued a statement on this wrong claim. More studies and experiments are needed to establish the role of banana in fighting against COVID-19.
So, before we go over bananas on this issue, let us try to be wise and responsible citizens and check all the facts backed up by science and studies.
It is true that our very own banana is a nutritious fruit and locally available in the Philippines. It is our cheap source of potassium and a good source of soluble fiber and the usual recommended fruit when we have diarrhea. 1 small banana (lacatan or latundan) approximately 4 inches long will provide about 40 calories, 10 grams carbohydrates and minimal protein (FEL,FNRI DOST, 1994). It also contains fiber and other essential vitamins and minerals like potassium, magnesium, vitamin C and other trace minerals.
Bananas have different levels of potassium and other vitamins and minerals depending on many factors like fruit variety, ripening level, size, etc. Aside from its potassium content, it is also a good source of vitamin B6 which plays a major role in the production of red blood cells as well as enabling body to make antibodies that helps fight infections.
Do you know that vitamin B6 is also available in other food items like meat, poultry products, fish, wholegrain cereals, and a whole range of vegetables and fruits?
We must keep in mind that having a balanced diet is one of the key factors in achieving a healthy and strong immune system. Remember Kumainments # 1, Kumain ng iba’t ibang pagkain. Eat a variety of foods everyday to get the nutrients needed by the body. We are also advised to eat 5 servings of fruits and vegetables everyday, the more colorful these are, the more chances of casting a wider nutrient net that our body needs.
Aside from healthy eating habits, we should also exercise. Indoor exercises will do for now. Why not let every member of the family do some household chores? Don’t forget to practice proper hygiene specifically frequent hand washing using clean water and soap for at least 20 seconds. Let us put together our hands and pray to our Almighty that this health crisis will soon be over. Keep safe everyone! (MPC, NACL, ARR, NNC RO V)
