Banana: Intake adds nutrients

Rich in potassium

Bananas provide several key nutrients for everyday health. They are low in calories -- providing about 90 calories for a 6-inch banana -- high in fiber and offer several vitamins and minerals.

• One 6-inch banana provides nearly 10 percent of your daily potassium requirements. Potassium is an electrolyte, meaning it helps conduct electricity throughout your body. When potassium is absorbed in your system, it dissolves in the fluid inside of cells. Potassium crosses cell membranes, if needed, to help other electrolytes sustain a balance of fluid. This process is imperative for electrical flow, which makes your heart beat and keeps muscles moving.

 If you are bored with plain bananas, find other ways to incorporate them into your diet. Mash them up and stir them into mashed sweet potatoes at dinner for added sweetness. During hot summer months, put a skewer through a peeled banana, pop it in the freezer and dip it in melted chocolate for a sweet treat.