Did you know, July 22 is National Mango Day? Time to celebrate and reap the health benefits of mangoes!
Originally from India, mangoes have grown in popularity and are now found abundantly in Mexico, South America, and parts of Florida and California. Mangoes are a tropical fruit that are full of flavor and versatility. Their sweet, bright flavor is delicious, whether sliced, chopped, pureed, juiced, or even roasted.
In addition to being a flavorful treat, mangoes have a flavorful nutritional profile and pack a healthy punch. From aiding in weight loss to fighting disease, mangoes’ health benefits are abundant and impressive. Some of the health benefits of mangoes include:
Immune Boosting
One cup of chopped mangoes contains 60 mg of vitamin C. That’s two-thirds of your daily vitamin C requirement. Vitamin C is a key nutrient in helping to keep your body healthy. Vitamin C boosts your immune system and helps to form blood vessels, cartilage, muscle, and collagen in the bone.
Improved Digestive Health
One cup of mango contains 3 g of fiber. That’s 10 percent of your daily needs. Fiber is vital to digestive health. It helps to break down foods while absorbing nutrients and pushing waste through your colon. This process keeps your bowel movements regular. Research shows that eating mangoes may increase healthy fatty acids and gastric secretions that help facilitate digestion.
Anti-Inflammatory
Mangoes are chocked full of antioxidants and nutrients, including vitamin C, polyphenols, and carotenoids, which are great anti-inflammatory sources. People who suffer from arthritis or chronic inflammation may benefit from eating mangoes regularly.
Are you looking for a fun way to add mango to your diet? Try this super easy mango sorbet recipe. It’s a fruity, refreshing recipe, perfect for a hot summer day or palate cleanser after a meal.
Easy Mango Sorbet Recipe
Serves: 4
Time: 10 minutes
Ingredients
4 cups of frozen mango, chopped
¼ cup of maple syrup (optional)
2 tbsp fresh lime juice
Splash of coconut milk (optional for creamier sorbet)
Directions
- Place frozen mango in a food processor and pulse into shreds. Scrape the sides of the processor and add the maple syrup and lime juice, and continue to pulse.
- Continue mixing and scraping the sides as needed until there are no visible mango pieces. Leave processor on until sorbet is a smooth and creamy consistency.
- Enjoy right away or freeze for a firmer consistency.