Mangoes are good antioxidants
Mangoes are one of the commonest fruits worldwide and are filled with various nutrients such as vitamins A, C, E, K, and B6, folate, riboflavin and choline. They also contain minerals, such as, iron, potassium, calcium, phosphorus, sodium, copper, zinc and selenium.
Vitamin C, A, and flavonoids like beta carotene contained in mangoes give benefits, such as healthy immune function, normal blood pressure, good vision, strong bones, plus added protection from lung, mouth, colon, breast and prostate cancers, leukemia.
Lilian Nyanzi, a nutritionist at Neulife Medical Centre Bweyogerere, says the nutrients in a mango snack are beneficial to pregnant women. Vitamin A helps fight infections and prevents vision problems in newborns.
Fights cancer
“The pulp of the mango contains carotenoids, such as, ascorbic acid and polyphenols which are responsible for the fruit’s cancer-preventing properties. Mangoes also contain unique antioxidants that are absent in other fruits and vegetable. The vitamin C in the fruit helps in the fast healing of wounds and boosts immunity, as well as, preventing gum bleeding.”
Cholesterol check
Mangoes have high level of vitamin C, pectin and fibres that help to lower serum cholesterol levels. A fresh mango is a rich source of potassium, which is an important component of cell and body fluids that helps to control heart rate and blood pressure.
Skin cleanser
Mangoes help unclog the pores, thus preventing acne. This is because of the presence of Vitamin E. Just slice a mango into thin pieces and keep them on your face for 15 minutes and then take bath or wash the face to see the results.
Eye care
Nyanzi says, “Mangoes help in promoting good eye sight; fight dry eyes and also prevent night blindness because of their vitamin A. The vitamin is also helpful in fighting age related macular degeneration which can lead to total blindness.”
Aids in digestion
Mangoes contain enzymes that help in breaking down protein. Their fibrous nature helps in digestion and elimination. It is also rich in pre-biotic dietary fibre which adds bulk to stool to prevent constipation and improve digestion.
