1 serving (490 grams) contains 975 calories, 12.0 grams of protein, 33.8 grams of fat, and 159.7 grams of carbohydrates.
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Nutrition Information
Calories |
298.5 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 10.3 g | 13% | |
| Saturated Fat | 6.2 g | 31% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 0.4 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 36 mg | 12% | |
| Sodium | 147 mg | 6% | |
| Total Carbohydrates | 48.9 g | 17% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 1.5 g | 5% | |
| Sugars | 36.3 g | ||
| protein | 3.7 g | 7% | |
| Vitamin D | 6 mcg | 30% | |
| Calcium | 111 mg | 8% | |
| Iron | 0.3 mg | 1% | |
| Potassium | 318 mg | 6% | |
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily values may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
Food Attributes
Source of Calories
About Banana split
The banana split is a classic American dessert with origins tracing back to 1904 in Latrobe, Pennsylvania. It traditionally consists of a peeled banana split lengthwise and topped with scoops of ice cream, whipped cream, nuts, chocolate or fruit syrup, and a cherry. While indulgent, the inclusion of bananas offers some nutritional value. Bananas provide carbohydrates primarily in the form of natural sugars and dietary fiber. They are also a good source of potassium (about 422 mg per medium banana), vitamin B6, and vitamin C. However, the additional toppings, such as ice cream and syrups, contribute high levels of saturated fats and added sugars, making it more of an occasional treat than a regular part of a balanced diet.
Health Benefits
- Bananas are rich in potassium, which supports heart health and helps regulate blood pressure.
- Bananas provide vitamin B6, which aids in maintaining proper brain function and the production of neurotransmitters.
- The natural fiber in bananas promotes digestive health and helps maintain steady blood sugar levels when consumed as part of a balanced meal.
Dietary Considerations
Selection and Storage
Store bananas at room temperature away from direct sunlight; refrigeration can slow ripening but may cause skin discoloration. Prepare banana split just before serving to prevent topping ingredients from melting or bananas from browning.
Common Questions About Banana split Nutrition
What is the nutritional content of a banana split?
A typical banana split contains around 400-500 calories, depending on the toppings and portion size. It provides about 6-8 grams of protein, primarily from the ice cream and whipped cream, along with vitamins such as vitamin C, potassium, and small amounts of calcium. However, it can also contain 50-70 grams of sugar and about 15-20 grams of fat.
Is a banana split suitable for a keto or low-carb diet?
A traditional banana split is not keto-friendly or low-carb, as it contains significant amounts of carbohydrates from the banana (27 grams per medium banana) and added sugars in the ice cream and toppings. To make it more keto-friendly, you could use a low-carb ice cream, sugar-free syrup, and berries instead of a banana.
Are there health benefits or concerns with eating a banana split?
While banana splits can provide potassium and vitamin C from the banana, they are also high in added sugars and saturated fats, which can contribute to weight gain and increased risk of heart disease when consumed in excess. It is best to enjoy them as an occasional treat rather than a regular dessert in your diet.
What is an appropriate serving size for a banana split?
An appropriate serving size for a banana split is typically one medium banana, a single scoop of ice cream (about 1/2 cup or 65-70 grams), and modest toppings such as a drizzle of chocolate syrup and a dollop of whipped cream. This keeps the portion in check and helps reduce calorie and sugar intake.
How does a banana split compare to other desserts like sundaes or smoothies?
A banana split generally has more fruit content than a typical sundae but is higher in added sugars and calories compared to many smoothies, which can be made with just fruit and yogurt. Smoothies can be a healthier option if made without added sugars, whereas a banana split is better reserved as an indulgent treat.
Data Sources & Scientific References
Our nutrition data comes from trusted, authoritative sources to ensure accuracy and reliability. Below are specific scientific references and authoritative sources for this food item.
- USDA FoodData - Banana split DataU.S. Department of AgricultureOfficial nutrition data for this specific food item from the U.S. Department of Agriculture's comprehensive food database.
Additional Authoritative Sources:
Daily value percentages based on FDA guidelines. Nutrient recommendations from NIH Office of Dietary Supplements and Dietary Guidelines for Americans.
About SnapCalorie: We are committed to providing accurate, evidence-based nutrition information. Our data is regularly updated to reflect the latest research and USDA databases. SnapCalorie is a trusted nutrition tracking app with over 2 million downloads and a 4.8/5 star rating.
