BANANAS Written by Corey Millikin 'Conch' illustration    Wednesday, 30 November 2005   Containing three natural sugars - sucrose, fructose and glucose, and fibre, a banana gives an instant, sustained and substantial boost of energy. Research has proven that just two bananas provide enough energy for a strenuous 90-minute workout. No wonder the banana is the number one fruit with the world's leading athletes. So, a banana really is a natural remedy for many ills. Compared to an apple, it has four times the protein, twice the carbohydrates, three times the phosphorus, five times the vitamin A and iron, and twice the other vitamins and minerals. Also rich in potassium –it is one of the best value foods around. 200 students at a Twickenham (Middlesex) school were helped through their exams  this year by eating bananas at breakfast, break, and lunch in a  bid to boost their brain power. Research has shown that the potassium-packed fruit can assist learning by making pupils more alert.     [ Back ]