Mango is native to India and Southeast Asia, and people have cultivated it for over 4,000 years. Hundreds of types of mango exist, each with its own characteristic taste, shape, size, and color (1Trusted Source, 2Trusted Source).
BENEFITS:
1. Mango is not only delicious but also boasts an impressive nutritional profile. Here are 10 benefits of mango, including an overview of its nutritional content and some tips on how to enjoy it.
Mango is low in calories yet high in nutrients — particularly vitamin C, which aids immunity, iron absorption, and cell growth and repair.
2. A 1-cup (165-gram) serving of mango contains fewer than 100 calories. Its low calorie density makes it a great choice if you’re looking to reduce your calorie intake while still feeling full and satisfied.
3. As long as you eat fresh mango in moderate amounts, it will likely reduce your risk of developing diabetes. Keep in mind that fresh mango does not contain as much sugar per serving as dried mango does.
4. Mango has over a dozen different types of polyphenols, including mangiferin, which is especially powerful. Polyphenols function as antioxidants inside your body.
5. Mango is a good source of folate, several B vitamins, as well as vitamins A, C, K, and E — all of which may help boost immunity.
6. Mango contains magnesium, potassium, and the antioxidant mangiferin, which all support healthy heart function.
7. Mango has digestive enzymes, water, dietary fiber, and other compounds that aid various aspects of digestive health.
8. Mango contains lutein, zeaxanthin, and vitamin A, all of which support eye health. Lutein and zeaxanthin may protect your eyes from the sun, while a lack of vitamin A can create vision problems.
9. Mango polyphenols may fight oxidative stress, which is linked to many health conditions, including colon, lung, prostate, breast, and bone cancers.
10. Mango is delicious, and you can enjoy it in many ways. However, it contains more sugar than some other fruits, so consider enjoying mango in moderation.
Mango is rich in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, and it has been associated with many health benefits, including potential anticancer effects, as well as improved immunity and digestive and eye health.
Best of all, it’s tasty and easy to add to your diet as part of smoothies and many other dishes.
