There is often a lot of talk about the use of sports drinks during exercise, but in most cases fruit such as bananas can be a cheaper, healither more effective option. A recent study looked at how effective bananas were at sustaining cyclists during a period of 3 hour intense exercise compared to a sports drink (gatorade) and found that there was no difference in performance, inflammation or innate immune function. In addition bananas are also a great source of dopamine. Dopamine has a duel effect acting as a mood booster and also as an antioxidant so help combat oxidative stress generated during exercise.
The researchers concluded that “In general, ingestion of bananas before and during prolonged and intensive exercise is an effective strategy, both in terms of fuel substrate utilization and cost, for supporting performance”.
Of course bananas are also another great way to get a bit of Brazil in your day and remind you of us!