Discover the surprising benefits of mango this winter
The winter months are often associated with citrus fruits, but there is another fruit you should pay attention to: the juicy, sweet mango. For convenience, it's important to buy fairly ripe mangoes that reveal juicy flesh under the skin. Check out how to choose the best ones and how to serve them.
This tropical fruit is becoming easier to find in American stores—even smaller neighborhood ones. When shopping, focus on the texture of the mango—it shouldn't be too soft, but it should slightly deform under the pressure of a finger. Interestingly, mango is considered the "fruit of love." During times of famine in India, seeds obtained from mango pits were used as food. A ripe, juicy, and aromatic mango offers many health benefits and is perfect for a quick smoothie—I'll share a recipe at the end of the article.
Why you should eat mango
Mango is an excellent source of beta-carotene, a compound that neutralizes free radicals and protects the skin from the harmful effects of UV radiation. Mango extract is perfect for facial, body, and hair care. It restores skin elasticity and gives it a youthful glow. Just place a few slices on your face and leave them for about 15 minutes. This fruit is also rich in vitamin C, which positively affects immunity, and it's a great source of vitamin B6, crucial for the proper functioning of the nervous system. Including mango in your diet can benefit your liver, as the antioxidants it contains help cleanse it of harmful toxins. Additionally, this fruit is a source of pectin and dietary fiber, which help lower high cholesterol levels. Studies have shown that eating mango helps control body weight, thanks to its fiber content, which increases feelings of fullness. This ingredient also improves the digestive system's functioning and replenishes potassium, deficiencies of which can cause fluid balance disorders and constipation.
Nutritious mango fit smoothie
Sweet mango doesn't require many additions. The most popular drink recipe is mango lassi, but you can use kefir. Kefir, known for its beneficial properties, has been popular in America for years. Its rich probiotic content helps maintain healthy gut flora, positively impacting the digestive system. Thanks to prebiotics, kefir supports digestion.
Ingredients:
- 1 ripe mango
- 7 oz kefir
- Fresh mint for serving (optional)
Preparation:
- Cut the mango and scoop out the flesh. It's best to do this with a glass, moving the half around to ensure all the sweetness ends up inside the container.
- Transfer the mango to a tall container and add the kefir. Blend with a hand blender. You can also use a blender jar or a sports blender.
- Garnish with mint—optional—and enjoy immediately.
