How Many Calories in a Banana?

Calories are a unit of energy that are commonly used to measure the energy content of foods and drinks. Bananas are a popular and nutritious fruit that is enjoyed by people all over the world. But how many calories does a banana contain?

To answer this question, it is important to understand that the number of calories in a banana can vary depending on a number of factors, including the size of the banana, the type of banana, and the stage of ripeness.

To start with, let’s look at the average number of calories in a medium-sized banana. According to the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA), a medium-sized banana (which is about 7 to 8 inches long and weighs around 118 grams) contains about 105 calories. This is based on the average calorie content of all types of bananas, including Cavendish, Plantain, Red, and others.

It’s worth noting that the calorie content of a banana can vary slightly based on the type of banana. For example, Cavendish bananas tend to be lower in calories compared to other types of bananas, with an average of about 89 calories per medium-sized banana. On the other hand, Plantain bananas tend to be higher in calories, with an average of about 121 calories per medium-sized banana.

The stage of ripeness can also affect the calorie content of a banana. Generally, bananas become sweeter and softer as they ripen, which means that they can contain more calories. For example, a medium-sized, ripe banana (one that is yellow with brown spots) may contain about 115 calories, while a medium-sized, unripe banana (one that is green and firm) may contain about 90 calories.

It’s important to note that the calorie content of a banana can also vary depending on the size of the banana. For example, a small banana (one that is 6 inches long or less) may contain about 90 calories, while a large banana (one that is 9 inches long or more) may contain about 120 calories.

In addition to the calorie content of a banana, it’s also important to consider the nutritional value of the fruit. Bananas are a good source of nutrients, including potassium, dietary fiber, and vitamin C. They are also low in fat and cholesterol, making them a healthy choice for people looking to maintain a healthy weight or manage their cholesterol levels.

So, to summarize, the number of calories in a banana can vary depending on the type of banana, the stage of ripeness, and the size of the banana. On average, a medium-sized banana contains about 105 calories. However, it’s important to consider the nutritional value of the fruit in addition to the calorie content. Bananas are a nutritious and healthy choice that can be enjoyed as part of a balanced diet.