The sweet and refreshing fruit snack can be enjoyed in many different ways – and isn’t super expensive either
A fresh and juicy fruit could help prevent some forms of cancer, control blood pressure and reduce the risk of heart disease. Mangoes are commonly seen on supermarket shelves in the UK, having been imported from the more exotic climates of Asia, the Middle East, Africa, and South America.
It can be bought whole from 74p in Asda or in pre-prepared chunks or slices that cost a little extra. The sweet fruit is a favourite of many Brits – including celebrities like Holly Willoughby. The Dancing on Ice host has previously shared her go-to snack choices in a feature with Hello Magazine.
And she’s not the only star who loves orange-coloured fruit. Singer Rihanna has been snapped enjoying a mango with a traditional Barbados twist – dipping them in seawater.
The fruit can be enjoyed as a simple snack or prepared as part of a larger meal. It’s packed with head-to-toe health benefits that many fail to realise.
Mangoes are full of vitamin C, with a 100g serving typically holding around 36.4mg of the essential vitamin. According to the NHS website, adults aged 19 to 64 need around 40mg of vitamin C a day, making mangoes a very good source.
Vitamin C, also known as ascorbic acid, has several important functions. It helps to protect cells, keep them healthy, and maintain healthy skin, blood vessels, bones, and cartilage. Being sufficient in vitamin C helps with any wound healing, too.
Collagen also relies on a good supply of vitamin C. Anyone over the age of 30 will naturally slow down in their usual collagen production, so any dietary help will enhance the look and feel of healthy skin, hair and nails.
Mangoes contain polyphenols and flavonoids, which may help fight cancer. The aptly named mangiferin is also a proven anticancer compound. Studies have found that mangiferin helps reduce inflammation and benefits the immune system. Mango extracts may help to inhibit the spread of cancer cells and reduce the size of cancerous tumours.
Mangoes can help lower cholesterol levels, especially LDL cholesterol, which is known as “bad” cholesterol. Like most plant-based foods, mangoes contain soluble fibre, antioxidants and other nutrients that may help manage cholesterol naturally.
Unless you experience an allergy, mango is generally considered safe for most people when included in a varied, balanced diet. if you are concerned about any potential risks, always speak with your GP.
