Mango is known as the king of fruits – the delicious, fleshy, flavorful fruit is the very epitome of nature’s bounty and an indication of summer’s arrival. We know that the mango is one of the most sensuously satisfying of fruits and also that it is one of the most calorific. But do you know that it is also packed with many health giving properties and valuable nutrients?
Both the green (unripe) mango, as well as the ripe mango which can range from pale yellow to bright orange in color is packed with goodness; even the peel of the mango contains many nutrients. Green mangoes can be pickled; ripe ones can be eaten whole, blended in milkshakes, smoothies and in various other forms.
Good for digestion
Mangoes are a good source of soluble and insoluble fiber. Soluble fibers aid the process of digestion in the body, whereas insoluble fiber can help stabilize blood sugar levels and in management of cholesterol. Mangoes also contain certain enzymes that help break down and digest food and also aid in the process of waste elimination.
Cancer fighting properties
Mangoes are known to have certain anti inflammatory and anti oxidant properties that could provide resistance to certain cancers. Certain compounds found in mangoes are known to protect against some types of colon cancers, leukemia, prostate and breast cancer. Mangoes contain lycopene, which research has shown is able to fight tumors and protect cells.
Improves immunity
When we think of Vitamin C we think of citrus fruits, but it is mangoes that have among the highest levels of Vitamin C. Just one mango a day could satisfy’s the body’s requirements of this vitamin for the day, which can help the body fight infection and repel the attack of free radicals. Mangoes also contain many different carotenoids and vitamin A which further help shore up immunity.
Fights heat stroke
As a tropical fruit, the mango has yet another benefit that is particularly valuable in areas where it grows. It is the unripe green mango that is thought to have a cooling effect on the body which can be an antidote to heat strokes.
Eating mangoes does however come with a caveat. Since mangoes contain high amounts of sugar, diabetics and weight watchers need to approach them with some restraint. If they do eat mangoes, the consumption of sugar and carbs from other parts of the diet should be reduced.