Mango
While growing up, i’m pretty sure mango was one of every Childs favorite fruit. It was definitely mine.
They can be found almost every part of the country at a very low cost. With the mango season coming closer, i feel it’s necessary to take a look at the amazing health benefits that follow.
Mango is high in fibre, and is a great source of vitamins A and C. It also contains folate, B6, iron and a little calcium, zinc and vitamin E. Mangoes are a good source of antioxidants, containing certain phytochemicals such as gallotannins and mangiferin which have been studied for their health benefits.
Just 80g of mango (2 x 2 inch slices) counts as one of your five-a-day. This one portion will provide 53 calories, 11g of naturally-occurring sugar and just over 2g of fibre.
Research has shown antioxidant compounds in the 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.
Mango leaves help normalize insulin levels in the blood. The traditional home remedyinvolves boiling leaves in water, soaking through the night and then consuming the filtered decoction in the morning. It also has a relatively low glycemic index (41-60) so moderate quantities will not spike your sugar levels.
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.
The generous amounts of vitamin C and vitamin A in mangos, plus 25 different kinds of carotenoids keep your immune system healthy and strong.
So next time you see a mango seller on the street, make sure to stop and get one. Happy Mango season.