Mango's untapped potential: From winter treat to health hero
The winter months are often associated with citrus fruits, but there's another fruit worthy of attention: the juicy, sweet mango. When buying mangoes, it's crucial to select ones that are suitably ripe, revealing juicy flesh beneath the skin. Discover how to pick the best mangoes and how to serve them.
When selecting mangoes, focus on the texture; it shouldn't be overly soft, but should give slightly under the pressure of a finger. Interestingly, the mango is known as the "fruit of love." During periods of famine in India, seeds extracted from mango pits served as sustenance. This ripe, juicy, and aromatic fruit offers numerous health benefits and is perfect for a quick smoothie—I'll share the recipe at the end of this article.
Why you should eat mango
Mango is an excellent source of beta-carotene, a compound that neutralises free radicals and protects the skin from the detrimental effects of UV radiation. Mango extract is ideal for facial, body, and hair care, as it restores skin elasticity and imparts a youthful glow. Simply place a few slices on your face and leave them for about 15 minutes. This fruit is also rich in vitamin C, which boosts immunity. It's a treasure trove of vitamin B6, crucial for the proper functioning of the nervous system. Adding mango to your diet is beneficial for the liver, as the antioxidants it contains assist in detoxifying the liver. Mango is a good source of pectin and dietary fibre, which aid in reducing high cholesterol levels. Studies have indicated that eating mango can aid in weight management, thanks to its fibre content, which enhances the feeling of fullness and supports digestive health. It also helps replenish potassium, a deficiency of which can result in fluid balance disorders and constipation.
Nutritious mango fit smoothie
Sweet mango doesn't require many additions. The most popular recipe is, of course, the mango lassi, but you can use kefir. Its rich probiotic content helps maintain a healthy gut flora, which positively influences the digestive system. With its prebiotic properties, kefir aids digestion.
Ingredients:
- 1 ripe mango,
- 200 ml kefir,
- fresh mint for serving (optional).
Preparation:
- Cut the mango and scoop out the flesh. It's best to use a glass for this, moving the mango half around so that all the sweetness ends up inside the container.
- Transfer the mango to a tall container and add the kefir. Blend with a hand blender, or you can opt for a blender jar or a sports blender.
- Garnish with mint, if desired, and drink immediately.
