Health Watch
By Minahil Makhdoom
It’s summer, which means it’s finally the season of the King of Fruits – mangoes! With a history as rich as its flavour (yes, it was indeed the favourite fruit of many rulers in India), mangoes make for one of the most popular fruits across the world.
In addition to being absolutely delectable, pulpy and lush, mangoes also boast a ton of health benefits too – as if we needed any more reasons to love this fruit! As compiled by NDTV Food, here are five health benefits that you can reap by gorging on this yummy fruit of the season.
1) No digestion dilemmas
Mangoes are amazing at promoting healthy digestion! According to the book Healing Foods, they contain enzymes that aid the breakdown and digestion of protein, and also fibre, which keeps the digestive tract working at its maximum potential. Dietary fibre also helps in lowering the risk of heart disease and even type 2 diabetes.
2) Immunity booster
Yes, mangoes are also a super food when it comes to amping up your immunity. An average sized mango contains up to two-third of the daily recommended intake of vitamin C! Vitamin C is, ofcourse, a powerful antioxidant that helps in boosting your immunity system and prevents cold/flu.
3) Cholesterol? Be gone!
Mangoes can also aid in lowering your cholesterol levels. The high levels of fibre pectin may help bring down the low-density lipoprotein (LDL or bad cholesterol) which causes plaques in the vessels and blocks blood flow. One tip: green, raw mangoes (kairi) contain more fibre pectin than ripe mangoes, so get munching!
4) Skin saver
Mangoes are chock-full of skin-friendly vitamin C and vitamin A, both of which are crucial for healthy skin and skin repair. When eaten in moderation, mangoes can also help to exfoliate and eliminate dead pores. According to Macrobiotic nutritionist and Health Practitioner Shilpa Arora ND, “Mangoes are loaded with skin healing nutrients; for example, fibre in mangoes cleanses your gut that is overloaded with toxic substances.”
5) Fit for weight-watchers
If you’re one to watch your calories, there’s a good news. When eaten in moderation, mangoes could also help in weight loss. The phytochemicals in mango skin act as natural fat busters. Not to mention, the flesh is filled with dietary fibres that can make you feel full for a longer time, which prevents you from tucking in other high fattening snacks.
