1 serving (60 grams) contains 53 calories, 0.6 grams of protein, 0.2 grams of fat, and 13.5 grams of carbohydrates.
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Nutrition Information
Calories |
212.0 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 0.8 g | 1% | |
| Saturated Fat | 0.4 g | 2% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 0 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 0 mg | 0% | |
| Sodium | 4.0 mg | 0% | |
| Total Carbohydrates | 54 g | 19% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 7.2 g | 25% | |
| Sugars | 28.0 g | ||
| protein | 2.4 g | 4% | |
| Vitamin D | 0 mcg | 0% | |
| Calcium | 12 mg | 0% | |
| Iron | 0.4 mg | 2% | |
| Potassium | 844.0 mg | 17% | |
* 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 Half of banana
Bananas are tropical fruits widely grown in regions like Southeast Asia, Central America, and Africa, and they are popular in cuisines worldwide for their versatility and natural sweetness. A half banana weighs about 50-60 grams and provides roughly 45-50 calories, primarily from natural sugars and complex carbohydrates. It is a rich source of potassium, vitamin B6, and dietary fiber, making it a quick and nutritious snack. Bananas contain negligible fat and protein but are prized for their energy-boosting properties and convenience. They are suitable for use in smoothies, baked goods, or as a standalone fruit.
Health Benefits
- Supports heart health with 180 milligrams of potassium, which helps to regulate blood pressure.
- Promotes digestive health through 1 gram of dietary fiber, aiding in regular bowel movements and gut health.
- Provides energy through natural sugars like fructose and glucose, which are easily metabolized.
- Helps maintain healthy skin and neural function with vitamin B6, which supports over 100 enzyme reactions in the body.
- Contains antioxidants like dopamine and vitamin C that protect cells from oxidative stress.
Dietary Considerations
Selection and Storage
Store whole bananas at room temperature to ripen. Once ripe, refrigerate to extend freshness or freeze peeled banana halves for smoothies or cooking.
Common Questions About Half of banana Nutrition
How many calories and nutrients are in half a banana?
Half a medium banana contains approximately 53 calories, 0.6 grams of protein, 13.5 grams of carbohydrates, 0.2 grams of fat, and 1.7 grams of dietary fiber. It is also a good source of potassium (about 200 mg) and vitamin B6, along with small amounts of vitamin C and magnesium.
Can I eat half a banana on a keto or low-carb diet?
Half a banana is generally not ideal for a strict keto diet due to its carbohydrate content, which is about 13.5 grams. However, for a more moderate low-carb diet, it can be included in small quantities if it fits into your daily carb limits.
What are the health benefits of eating half a banana?
Eating half a banana provides a quick source of energy due to its natural sugars, while also offering potassium, which supports heart health and muscle function. It contains fiber to aid digestion and vitamin B6, which helps in brain development and function. However, its higher natural sugar content means it should be consumed in moderation, especially for those monitoring blood sugar levels.
What is the recommended portion size for bananas?
A recommended portion for balanced diets is half a banana, especially for individuals monitoring their calorie and carb intake. For most people, this portion provides a satisfying snack without exceeding daily nutrient or calorie goals.
How does half a banana compare to other fruits in terms of sugar content?
Half a banana contains about 6.5 grams of sugar, which is higher than fruits like strawberries (about 3.5 grams in a half-cup). However, it's lower than grapes, which have around 12 grams of sugar in the same serving size. Bananas are a good choice for quick energy, but less optimal than lower-sugar fruits for those keeping close track of sugar intake.
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.
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.
