By Olamide Tejuoso
Mango (Mangifera indica) is a tasty, juicy bean-shaped stone (drupe) belonging to the genus Mangifera, consisting of numerous tropical fruiting trees. It usually has a yellow, green or some yellow-green edible flesh round the stone. Mangoes belong to the flowering plant family Anacardiacea. To the Indians and many other nationals, mango is called the king of fruits. Mangoes can be cut up or eaten by hand. Specifically, Ogbomoso mangoes usually have a bright yellow skin with orange and red blush or purely Yellow with an Oblong shape. One thing about mangoes is that; they are not just sweet, but have impressive nutritional values, just like other varieties of mangoes. These nutritional values are enough motivation for you to leap at the availability of mangoes in your immediate environment and possess the following:
1. Mango is a good source of immune-boosting nutrients: It 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. One cup, which is about 165 grammes of mango, provides 10% of your daily vitamin A needs. Vitamin A is essential for a healthy immune system, as its deficiency could be linked to a greater risk of infection. In addition, one cup, which is about 165 grammes of mango provides nearly 75 per cent of the daily vitamin C needs. This vitamin can help the body produce more disease-fighting white blood cells, help the cells work more effectively, and improve skin’s defences.
2. Eliminates tendencies for diseases: Research published in comprehensive review on food science and food safety proved that the dietary fibre, which is contained in mango, has a positive effect on eliminating degenerative diseases, including certain cancers and heart conditions. Mangos contain some proteins called “Papains” and they help in the breaking down of proteins, to aid ease of digestion.
3. Skin revitalisation: Mangoes have been proven to have antioxidant properties with skin rejuvenation nutrients. The presence of vitamin A and carotenoids makes it very effective in the treatment of skin diseases such as pimples and acnes, as these constituents treat pores and make you glow. It is even used as some of the content of face masks and scrubs.
4. Mangoes aid digestion: It has been proven to contain enzymes that help in breaking down protein, which also helps to promote natural and efficient digestion. Studies have shown that, the bioactive ingredients in mangoes like esters, terpenes, and aldehydes contribute in enhancing appetite and also improve the function of the digestive system.
5. Improve eye health: Mangoes contain lutein, zeaxanthin, and vitamin A, which support the human eye and protect it from the sun. Naturally, deficiency of vitamin A affects the human vision. This content of mangoes have also been proven to protect the eyes against ultraviolet rays as well as slow the progression of cataracts.
