Here's the lowdown on the health benefits of bananas: Potassium power -- Heart disease is the No. 1 killer in the United States. The FDA has acknowledged, "Diets containing foods that are good sources of potassium and low in sodium may reduce the risk of high blood pressure and stroke." Bananas are a good source of potassium. A medium banana supplies 11 percent of the U.S. Recommended Daily Allowance (RDA) for potassium. Fiber for health and weight loss -- A single medium banana has 16 percent of the daily reference value of dietary fiber. Low-fat diets rich in foods containing fiber, such as fruits, have been associated with a number of beneficial effects, including decreased risk of coronary heart disease and some types of cancer. Foods rich in fiber also tend to produce a feeling of fullness, potentially helping control the quantity of food you eat. Energy -- A medium banana contains a combination of 4 grams of fiber, starch and simple sugars. This combination provides both a quick energy boost and a sustained release of energy over time, helping to provide endurance and concentration. Vitamins -- Bananas are loaded with vitamin B6 - a medium banana provides 20 percent of the RDA. B6 supports the immune system and assists in the functioning of the central nervous system. With 15 percent of the RDA for vitamin C, bananas are also a good source of vitamin C - an antioxidant and an enhancer of iron absorption. General health -- What bananas don't have is also important: they're free of fat, sodium and cholesterol. Packed with an abundance of nutrients and great taste, it's easy to see why bananas are the perfect way to meet the new dietary recommendations. With today's on-the-go lifestyles, they're a portable and healthy snack. They can also add great flavor and texture to smoothies, salads and many other dishes.

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