Mangoes are one of the most delicious and nutrient-dense fruits, and are known worldwide as the king of fruit. Mango is a tropical fruit that comes in as many as 1,000 varieties. Native to southern and southeast Asia, the fruit is now is also grown in Central and South America, Africa and the Arabian peninsula.

Mangoes are seasonal fruits, with the fresh mango fruit season beginning in May. Mangoes are usually harvested while they are green but perfectly mature. Unripe mangoes are extremely sour.

One mango contains about 3 grams of dietary fiber. Fiber lowers cholesterol and promotes healthful digestion. Mangoes are high in vitamin C, with one mango containing 96 percent of the recommended daily intake of vitamin C. Vitamin C is well known as an immune-system booster, offers protection from heart and eye disease and boosts skin health. The vitamin E and beta carotene in mangoes act as powerful antioxidants that help the body fight the effects of free radicals. Research suggests that eating a diet rich in foods high in antioxidants reduces the risk of developing certain types of cancers and cardiovascular disease. Mangoes are also rich in vitamin B6, iron, potassium and magnesium.

The nutritional value of mango fruit per 100 g: 17 g carbohydrates, 70 calories, 0.5 g protein and 0.27 g fat.

 Raghad albahily