Summer is in full swing, and in some parts of the world, it’s mango season! All hail the mangoes, the king of all fruits. Fruit lovers look forward to mango season all year round and now that they’ve finally arrived, we can’t get enough. Manges are juicy, aromatic and one of the most versatile fruits you can think of. With over 500 varieties of mangoes grown worldwide, there’s no surprise that mangoes can be used in a range of recipes and enjoyed all summer long. Whether you cube them, slice them or consume them as part of your morning smoothie, mangoes have a whole range of benefits.
And so, we highlight some of the many health benefits brought to you by mangoes, (as we munch on one).
Cleanse your skin
Mangoes are a great source for cleansing. Just one mango alone contains a number of antioxidants which cleanse your body and skin from deep inside the body. Mangoes are able to treat pores which are the opening to your skin and have the ability to provide you with the gorgeous glow. So if you want that flawless complexion, add some mangoes to your summer diet.
Aids good digestive health
Mangoes contain a group of digestive enzymes called amylases which are said to be great for digestive health. These enzymes have the ability to break down large food molecules so that they can be easily absorbed. Mangoes are also made up of a lot of water and fibre which are also great for digestive health.
Promotes hair growth
Being high in vitamin C, which is essential for making collagen, mangoes make for the perfect treat that will also promote hair growth. Its collagen boosting properties will add bounce and promote healthy hair. Mangoes are also a good source of Vitamin A which encourages the production of sebum and in turn, hair growth.
Boosts Immunity
With the fast spread of the coronavirus, we are constantly being told to build up our immunity. Mangoes are a great source of boosting immunity owing to its many nutrients. Just one cup of mangoes provides approximately 10% of your daily Vitamin A needs. Mangoes are also rich in Vitamins C, K, E and several B vitamins which all have the ability to boost immunity.
Supports heart health
Magnesium and potassium are both found in mangoes which are essential for a healthy functioning heart. These help to maintain a regular pulse and promote lower blood pressure levels. They also have the ability to prevent heart cells against inflammation. Additionally, mangoes can lower blood cholesterol, triglycerides and free fatty acid levels.
Can help lower risk of certain cancers
Mangoes are high in polyphenols which may have anti-cancer properties. These polyphenols can protect against oxidative stress; which is linked to a number of different cancers. Further studies are still being conducted to see the correlation between mangoes and cancers.
Having looked at all the benefits of mangoes, it is safe to say that adding mangoes to your diet will be beneficial for yourself and the family. They are a versatile fruit and can be added to your diet in a number of unique ways. Add them to your smoothies, your salad bowls, make a milkshake or a cheesecake or dice it up and serve with other seasonal fruits. The bottom line is that mangoes are rich in nutrients and vitamins and promote improved immunity, heart health, skin and hair health and digestion. We say, enjoy them while they last!