Health Benefits of Eating Mangoes

One of the most delicious and most fattening fruits, mango is truly called the ‘King of Fruits’. A tropical fruit, it comes in as many as 1000 different varieties, each of them totally delectable. Apart from being high in calories, mangoes are also rich in a large number of nutrients and hold great nutritional value. In fact, they have been known to have positive effects in case of a number of ailments.  This ‘king of fruits’ boasts of having abundant vitamins, minerals and anti-oxidants is indeed a stomach soother as it contains enzymes with stomach comforting properties.

Prevents Cancer: Research has shown antioxidant compounds in mango fruit have been found to protect against colon, breast, leukemia and prostate cancers. These compounds include quercetin, isoquercitrin, astragalin, fisetin, gallic acid and methylgallat, as well as the abundant enzymes.

Lowers Cholesterol: The high levels of fiber, pectin and vitamin C help to lower serum cholesterol levels, specifically Low-Density Lipoprotein.

Clears the Skin: Can be used both internally and externally for the skin. Mangos clear clogged pores and eliminate pimples.

Eye Health: One cup of sliced mangoes supplies 25 percent of the needed daily value of vitamin A, which promotes good eyesight and prevents night blindness and dry eyes.

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

Helps in Diabetes: Mango leaves 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. Mango fruit also have a relatively low glycemic index (41-60) so moderate quantities will not spike your sugar levels.

Improves Digestion: Papayas are not the only fruit that contain enzymes for breaking down protein. There are several fruits, including mangoes, which have this healthful quality. The fiber in mangos also helps digestion and elimination.

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

Gain Weight: Mango, being high in calories and carbohydrates, is good for those who are trying to gain weight.

Improve Blood: Being high in iron, mango is said to be very good for pregnant women as well as for people suffering from anemia.

Nutrition by the Numbers

One cup (225 gms contain) contains the following. Percentages apply to daily value.

• 105 calories

• 76 percent vitamin C (antioxidant and immune booster)

• 25 percent vitamin A  (antioxidant and vision)

• 11 percent vitamin B6 plus other B vitamins (hormone production in brain and heart disease prevention)

• 9 percent healthy probiotic fiber

• 9 percent copper (copper is a co-factor for many vital enzymes plus production of red blood cells)

•  7 percent potassium (to balance out our high sodium intake)

• 4 percent magnesium

Source: realfoodforlife.com, iloveindia.com