Demystifying the Calorie Count of Latundan Bananas
The Latundan banana, or 'Tundan,' is a popular and delicious variety, particularly in Southeast Asia. While all bananas are known for being a quick source of energy, their exact calorie content can vary by size and type. For the Latundan, a medium fruit generally contains around 105 calories. This is a valuable piece of information for anyone monitoring their energy intake, from athletes needing a quick boost to individuals managing their weight. Most of these calories come from the banana's carbohydrate content, which fuels the body effectively. Beyond just the energy value, the Latundan offers a rich nutritional profile that supports various aspects of health.
The Full Nutritional Breakdown
To truly understand the health benefits of the Latundan, one must look beyond the calorie count. The fruit provides a balanced mix of macro and micronutrients that contribute to a healthy diet. A medium-sized Latundan banana provides approximately 27 grams of total carbohydrates, with about 3 grams of dietary fiber and 14.4 grams of natural sugars. It contains a small amount of protein (around 1.3 grams) and is very low in fat (less than 0.5 grams). It is a notable source of potassium (roughly 400 mg), crucial for heart health and blood pressure, and provides about 15% of the recommended daily intake of Vitamin C, known for supporting immunity. Vitamin B6 is also present and important for brain function. This profile shows Latundan bananas offer substantive nutritional support, making them a smart addition to balanced eating plans.
How Ripeness and Size Affect Calories
Ripeness and size influence the calorie and nutritional content of Latundan bananas. As the fruit ripens, starches convert to sugars, which slightly changes the carbohydrate composition and glycemic index, though the total calorie count remains similar. The size of the banana directly impacts its total calories; a larger Latundan will have more calories than a smaller one.
Comparison with Other Banana Varieties
To put the Latundan's nutritional value in perspective, here is a comparison with other common banana types, based on a medium-sized serving:
| Nutrient | Latundan Banana | Cavendish Banana (common) | Plantain (green) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Calories | ~105 kcal | ~105 kcal | ~215 kcal (cooked) |
| Carbohydrates | ~27 g | ~27 g | ~58 g |
| Fiber | ~3 g | ~3 g | ~4 g |
| Potassium | ~400 mg | ~422 mg | ~650 mg |
| Primary Use | Dessert, snacking | Snacking, cooking | Cooking, frying |
The Latundan is comparable in calories and carbs to the common Cavendish banana. Plantains are higher in calories and starch, typically used for cooking.
Incorporating Latundan Bananas into Your Diet
The Latundan banana is a versatile fruit for daily consumption due to its moderate calories and high nutritional value. Enjoy it as a snack, blend it into smoothies, add it to breakfast dishes like oatmeal or yogurt, or use it as a natural sweetener in baking. Pairing it with a healthy fat like nut butter can improve nutrient absorption.
Conclusion
A medium Latundan banana contains approximately 105 calories. Beyond this moderate calorie count, it offers significant nutritional benefits, including potassium, vitamins, and fiber. This makes the Latundan a flavorful and healthy choice for a snack, pre-workout fuel, or digestive aid, fitting well into any balanced diet.
For more information on the health benefits of bananas in general, you can explore resources from reputable health organizations like Harvard's The Nutrition Source.
Key takeaways: Latundan bananas are a smart dietary choice, offering a great combination of taste and nutritional benefits.
