Lykkers, if you're a fan of summer fruits, chances are mangoes are right at the top of your list. Not only are they delicious and refreshing, but they also come with a ton of health benefits that you might not know about.

In this article, let's dive into why eating mangoes is so beneficial, and how we can pick the best ones to enjoy!

1. Anti-bacterial and Anti-inflammatory

Mangoes are packed with more than just sweetness. Even the unripe mangoes, along with their leaves and skin, have medicinal properties. Studies show that mango tree bark, leaves, and stems can fight bacteria like Staphylococcus aureus, which are responsible for infections in our skin and digestive system. So, by adding mangoes to our diet, we can help protect ourselves from these harmful bacteria and reduce inflammation in our bodies.

2. Cancer Prevention

Mangoes contain powerful compounds like mango acids, polyphenols, and antioxidants that can help fight cancer. These compounds have been shown to have a preventive effect on colon cancer by improving gut health. Mangoes can also help increase peristalsis (the movement of food through the intestines), which reduces the time that waste spends in the colon. The quicker the waste moves out, the lower the chances of developing cancer. Adding mangoes to our regular diet is a smart choice when it comes to fighting cancer and improving overall health.

3. Helps with Cough and Phlegm

If you're dealing with a persistent cough, or struggling with phlegm and congestion, mangoes can help! The mango glycosides (a type of compound in mangoes) have soothing effects on the respiratory system. They help clear out excess mucus, making them a great option to aid in cough and chest congestion relief. You can consider drinking mango juice or eating a mango to help ease these symptoms naturally.

4. Reduces Cholesterol and Triglycerides

Did you know that mangoes are high in vitamin C? In fact, they contain more vitamin C than many other fruits, and the vitamin C in mangoes remains stable even after they are heated. Regular consumption of mangoes can help lower cholesterol and triglyceride levels, which is great news for heart health. We all know how important it is to maintain a healthy heart, and eating mangoes regularly can be a tasty way to support our cardiovascular system!

5. Promotes Healthy Eyesight

Mangoes are incredibly rich in vitamin A, which plays a crucial role in maintaining healthy vision. Vitamin A is known for its ability to improve eyesight, and mangoes provide more vitamin A than most other fruits. By eating mangoes, we can help protect our eyes from conditions like night blindness and age-related vision decline. It's not just about the delicious taste; mangoes are literally helping us see better!

How to Choose the Best Mangoes in Summer

Now that we know how amazing mangoes are for our health, let's talk about how to pick the best ones! When mangoes are in season, it's time to take full advantage of their flavor and health benefits. Here's what to look for when choosing a mango:

• Color: A ripe mango will have a vibrant color, typically a mix of red, yellow, and green. But remember, color varies by mango variety, so focus on the feel and smell.

• Feel: Gently squeeze the mango. It should yield slightly to pressure, indicating ripeness. A firm mango might need a couple more days to ripen.

• Smell: A ripe mango will have a sweet, fruity fragrance near the stem end. If you don't smell anything, it might not be ripe yet.

• Shape: Look for a mango that is plump and slightly rounded. Avoid ones that have sharp edges or feel too hard.

Conclusion

Mangoes aren't just delicious; they come packed with health benefits that make them a must-have in our summer fruit collection. Whether you're enjoying them on their own, in smoothies, or as part of a salad, mangoes can help keep our bodies healthy in so many ways. They support our immune system, fight cancer, improve digestion, and more.

So next time you pick up a mango, remember: you're not just satisfying your taste buds, you're giving your body some serious health benefits too! Enjoy your mangoes, Lykkers, and don't forget to share this info with friends and family!