General information
Mangifera indica, known as Mango, is over 4,000 years old and considered to be the symbol of love and fertility in eastern cultures. Mangoes are also widely used in Ayurvedic medicine. According to studies, all part of mango plant – roots, bark, leaves, fruits, seeds, flowers, and kernels – have medicinal qualities and could support many different ailments. Even though a mango is sweet, its glycemic index is on the lower end. The fiber in the fruit inhibits rapid absorption of sugar which prevents blood glucose surges. Mango also contains significant amounts of Vitamins A and C, E, K, and B complex, fiber, calcium, potassium, copper, iron, zinc, omega-3, omega-6 fatty acids, polyphenols, and carotenes. This delicious fruit is packed with life-giving nutrients and sustains our health in many magnificent ways.
Health benefits of mangoes
Digestive health: Specific enzymes in mango break down proteins. Fiber and minerals support proper digestion and elimination.
Cancer prevention: Mango is an excellent source of antioxidants. Antioxidants are substances that bind and protect our body from free radicals that play a role in cancer formation.
Diabetes: Anti-inflammatory and anti-viral component mangiferin in mangoes could also help lower blood sugar levels. Some studies show that consuming freeze-dried mango reduced blood sugar levels in both men and women.
Skin: Mango’s antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties help aid inflammatory skin conditions. Minerals and vitamins in mango also help collagen formation.
Anti-ageing: High amounts of vitamin A and C in mango help produce collagen proteins in the body, which slows down the natural ageing process.
Additional to the above-listed benefits, mango is known for its radio-protective, immunomodulatory, anti-allergic, antimicrobial and anti-parasitic, anti-HIV, and antispasmodic properties.
How to use mangoes
One mango contains around 100 calories. You can enjoy eating your mango in many different ways: fruit salads, salsas, sauces, fresh soups, fresh fruity lemonade, dried mangoes or just a fruit itself but you could also start your day with deliciously nourishing mango mint smoothie. All you need is one cup of frozen or fresh mangos, ice cubes and a handful of mint (plant milk and other fruits are optional). Place all ingredients in the blender and blend for few minutes. Enjoy!
Do not forget to use the mango peel. It clears pores by removing dirt and oil. You could gently clean and hydrate your face with mango peels while enjoying your morning mango mint smoothie.
Sophia Gigitashvili is a Certified Nutrition and Detoxification Specialist in New York City. She resides in Brooklyn, New York, where she facilitates health and wellness workshops and retreats, supports corporate and children’s health education and helps individuals reach their health goals. She holds certificates in Ayurvedic and Chinese medicine, nutrition, health coaching, cellular detoxification & regeneration (Dr Robert Morse’s method), and clinical iridology.
Image courtesy: Pixabay
