The mango originated in Southeast Asia
where it has been grown for over 4,000 years. Over the years mango
groves have spread to many parts of the tropical and sub-tropical world,
where the climate allows the mango to grow best. Mango trees are
evergreens that will grow to 60 feet tall. The mango tree will fruit 4
to 6 years after planting. Mango trees require hot, dry periods to set
and produce a good crop. Most of the mangos sold in the United States
are imported from Mexico, Haiti, the Caribbean and South America. Today
there are over 1,000 different varieties of mangos throughout the world.
Vitamin
Content: Mango is rich in Vitamin C and Vitamin A. Vitamin C content is
more in raw mango as compared to that in ripe mango. It also has traces
of Vitamin E, Vitamin B and Vitamin K.
The
dulcet, juicy insides of the mango pack a nutritional punch. Its
characteristic orange color is a clue to its storehouse of beta carotene
(Vitamin A). Ripe mangos hold the highest levels of beta carotene,
while green mangos are higher in Vitamin C. These antioxidant
carotenoids are known for their protective power against certain
cancers. Mangos also supply ample potassium, making them ideal for
hypertensive patients or anyone looking to replenish energy after
physical activity.
Mangoes
are high in antioxidants, low in carbohydrates (although they are about
15% sugar – but good sugar!) and like other yellow/orange fruit such as
pumpkin and carrot, they are an excellent source of beta-carotene
(Vitamin A). They also contain Vitamin E and selenium which help protect
against heart disease and cancer. You can obtain 40% of your daily
fibre intake from a mango.
We
all know the importance of fiber in our diets. If you are eating your
mango-a-day, irregularity is not a problem for you and so we'll spare
the gruesome details regarding constipation, piles and spastic colon.
Research has shown that dietary fiber has a protective effect against
degenerative diseases, especially with regards to the heart; may help
prevent certain types of cancer, as well as lowering blood cholesterol
levels.
The
nutritional value of mango makes it good for weight gain, eye
disorders, hair loss, heat stroke, prickly heat, diabetes, bacterial
infections, sinusitis, piles, indigestion, constipation, morning
sickness, diarrhea, dysentery, scurvy, spleen enlargement, liver
disorders, menstrual disorders, leucorrhea, and vaginitis.
Mango,
being high in calories and carbohydrates, is good for those who are
trying to gain weight. The phenolic compound found in mangoes has been
found to have powerful antioxidant and anticancer properties. Being high
in iron, mango is said to be very good for pregnant women as well as
for people suffering from anemia. Mango is believed to be effective in
relieving clogged pores of the skin.
Mangoes
are a good source of vitamins and minerals essential for the human
body. It is an affordable and seasonal fruit. In India mangoes are grown
widely in the southern belt. 'Alphonso' variety of mango which is
exported world wide is cultivated in 'Ratnagiri' in the southern part of
India. Mangoes can be eaten both raw and ripe. Raw mangoes have a sharp
sour taste, while the ripe mangoes are juicy and sweet to eat. The
fragrance of ripe mangoes tingles ones taste buds.
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