Mango tango

Mango is one of those fruits that not only taste amazing, but can also do wonders for one’s health. Yes, mango is one of the most popular fruits of the world. Originally, this fruit was cultivated in India. Mangoes are consumed most commonly worldwide, and are the most cultivated fruit in the tropical world. Read on to find out more about the yummy and sweet fruit that rules everyone’s heart during the summer season.

Health benefits

Mangoes are good for the body in many ways but unfortunately, they are available during the summers only. But fret not; you still have a few months to go. Here is why you must consume mangoes this summer...

 Clears the skin: Besides being extremely pleasing to your taste buds, mangoes are amazing for your skin as they are a great source of antioxidants, particularly vitamin C, which keep your skin healthy and glowing. It is often used in various face masks and scrubs. Mangoes help in clearing clogged pores and eliminating pimples.

 Good for vision: One cup of sliced mangoes supplies 25 per cent of the needed daily value of vitamin A, which promotes good eyesight and prevents night blindness and dry eyes.

 Prevents cancer: According to a research antioxidant compounds found in mango fruit helps in protecting against colon, breast, leukaemia and prostate cancers. These compounds include quercetin, isoquercitrin, astragalin, fisetin, gallic acid and methylgallat, as well as abundant enzymes.

 Lowers cholesterol: The high levels of fibre, pectin and vitamin C in a mango lowers serum cholesterol levels, specifically low-density lipoprotein (the bad cholesterol).

 Alkalizes the whole body: The tartaric acid, malic acid, and a trace of citric acid found in the fruit help maintain the alkali reserve of the body.

 Helps in diabetes: The leaves of mangoes help normalize insulin levels in the blood.  The traditional home remedy involves boiling leaves in water, soaking through the night and then consuming the filtered decoction in the morning.

 Improves digestion: The fibre in mangoes also helps digestion.

 Remedy for heat stroke: Juicing a green mango and mixing with water and a sweetener helps to cool down the body.

 Boosts immune system: The generous amounts of vitamin C and vitamin A in mangoes, plus 25 different kinds of carotenoids keep your immune system healthy and strong.

 Memory: Studying for exams? Make sure to feed mangoes to children who find it difficult to concentrate on studies. This fruit is rich in glutamine acid- an important protein for concentration and memory.

 Source of iron for women: Mango is rich in iron; hence it is a great natural solution for people suffering from anaemia. Menopausal and pregnant women can indulge in mangoes as this will increase their iron levels and calcium at the same time.

 Perfect snack: Instead of snacking on unhealthy chips and cookies, why not feast on slices of mangoes instead. They are perhaps one of the tastiest fruits of all.

 Good in pregnancy: Pregnant moms can eat mangoes as they are rich in iron, vitamin C, vitamin A, vitamin B6, potassium and folic acid which are all vital nutrients for the baby.

Mangoes are also naturally sweet. This makes them a delicious alternative to cakes and pastries when you’re craving a sugary treat.

The toxic element

It’s true that mangoes can do wonders for the body. But what happens in the case when mangoes are artificially ripened? Yes, artificially ripened mangoes neither have the real taste nor the health benefits. They also cause damage to the body.  The most commonly used ripening agent is calcium carbide, a chemical prohibited under food safety and medical standards. Fruits ripened with calcium carbide can be toxic as the chemical contains traces of arsenic and phosphorus.

Furthermore, when you buy your mangoes in the market, choose them carefully. Make sure you do not buy mangoes ripened with chemicals. Make sure you buy them when they are in season, this will reduce the likelihood of them being artificially ripened.

Fun facts

 Mango is known as the ‘King of fruits’

 Mangoes originated 4,000 plus years ago.

 Biologically a close relative with other flowering plants like cashew and pistachio.

 In India where they are most heavily grown and eaten, mangoes are known as ‘safeda’.

 Both ripe and raw mangoes can be consumed. Raw mangoes are usually used in chutneys or pies.

 Mangoes contain an enzyme that can tenderise meat, and can be used to add a nutritious burst of flavour to marinades.

 There are over 1,000 different varieties of mangoes.