Going Bananas

Fifty million adults in the United States, including more than one of every two adults over the age of 60, suffer from high blood pressure, a major factor in a number of debilitating diseases. Diet plays a major role in the development of this condition, and according to researchers in Manipal, India, one of America’s favorite fruits can help treat it.

Their studies show that eating two bananas a day can lower blood pressure by 10 percent. That’s because bananas contain high levels of potassium, an important blood pressure regulator. The U.S. recommended daily allowance of potassium is 2,000 mg per day. Bananas have about 400 mg a piece. Other good sources include lima beans, cantaloupe, orange juice and almonds.
—Katie Bowler

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