Facts & Health Benefits of Mango

It is the national fruit of India and also crowned as the king of all fruits; it is one of the tastiest for your taste buds and beneficial for your health. Yes, we are talking about none other than the sweet and delicious mangoes. Alphonso mangoes, Banganapalli mangoes, dasheri mangoes, chaunsa mangoes, langra mangoes, totapuri mangoes, sindoori mangoes, etc., we’ve all grown up suckling to these mangoes and enjoying their pulpy taste. In fact, every childhood summer memory revolves around eating that sweet fruit or making cool mango shakes. While we all loved this yellow-orange-green fruit and still do, not many of us are aware of the amazing health benefits that mangoes offer. So, here’s a compilation of some of the facts about this fruit and health benefits of mangoes that you must know right away.

Interesting Facts About Mango

• It has been over 5,000 years since the first mango tree was grown in India. They are, in fact, one of the oldest fruits ever grown in India.
• Mango tree is considered as the symbol of prosperity in ancient India. In historical texts, it is mentioned that mangoes were planted alongside roads as a sign of prosperity.
• Mango is not just the national fruit of India; it is also crowned as the national fruit of countries like Pakistan and the Philippines.
• Buddhists consider mangoes to carry a lot of sacred importance as Buddha is said to have meditated under the shade of mango tree.
• Unlike various other fruits, one can find fresh mangoes in the market all year round.
• The name mango originated in South India, where people called this fruit as aam-kay, which became maam-kay and then maam-ga with variations. Lastly, the Portuguese named this fruit ‘mango’.

Health Benefits Of Mango

• In prevention of heart diseases:

Mangoes have proven to be very beneficial in controlling body sugar levels and reducing body fats. It also has anti-oxidant named beta-carotene that has the power to fight free radicals and prevent humans from the risk of heart diseases.

• In prevention of cancer:

Mangoes are a rich source of cancer-preventing ingredients like carotenoids, polyphenols, ascorbic acid, mangiferin, terpenoids, and a unique antioxidant that helps in making the body fight any signs of cancer. The anti-carcinogenic effect of mangoes makes it a great fruit for suppressing cancer.

• In treating diabetes:

According to a study, consuming half a mango each day for 12 days regularly can lower the level of blood glucose. The fibers and mangiferin present in mangoes add to its anti-diabetic properties and make it beneficial in treating type 2 diabetes as well.

• In improving digestion:

Mangoes are rich in fiber content that makes it great for digestion by keeping the colon clean. The digestive enzymes present in mangoes also aid digestion by breaking down the proteins consumed by the body. Those suffering from constipation or irritable bowel syndrome can regularly consume mangoes to bring their bowel movement right on track.

• In improving eyesight:

Our eyes are one of the most important yet the most delicate organs of our body and keeping them healthy is our top priority. And when it comes to the health of our eyes, mangoes are a god sent. This fruit contains vitamin A and beta-carotene that is proven to boost your vision.

While one can pen down a long list of mango benefits, these are some of the top health benefits that one can find in mango fruit. Apart from being one of the tastiest fruit, mangoes also offer various other health benefits to our brain and skin health, boost bone health, control and regulate our blood sugar level and even aid in weight loss. Whether you intake mangoes as it is, in shakes, smoothies, juices, salsa, pickle, salad, or in any other form, including it in your diet would only prove beneficial for your health.