A mango a day…

Great health reasons to go a mango!

As the saying goes, ‘an apple a day keeps the doctor away’. This old adage could well be used for mangoes because, like apples, they’re simply brimming with goodness. Australian mangoes are high in energy, low in fat, and are a great source of calcium and vitamins essential for good health.

A 200g serve of ripe mango (the equivalent of less than one mango) provides you with up to three times your recommended daily intake of Vitamin A and Vitamin C. Vitamin C, an antioxidant important in protecting the body from infection, is required in the formation of collagen, a protein that gives structure to bones, cartilage, muscle and blood vessels. Vitamin C also aids the absorption of iron, necessary for transporting oxygen from the lungs to cells all around the body.

And the good news doesn’t end there. Our Australian mangoes also provide more beta-carotene than any other fruit and are a rich source of fibre and potassium. Beta-carotene is a powerful anti-oxidant that can help protect the body against disease and also fight the signs of ageing by assisting with the growth and repair of cells, tissues and skin.

If you’re trying to shape up for summer, mangoes are ideal as a snack on their own or as part of a healthy meal. Half a mango contains only 230kj (60 calories) and because mangoes are low GI, most of their energy comes from carbohydrate which is absorbed slowly into the body, helping maintain healthy blood sugar levels, and keeping you satisfied for longer. Great news for the health conscious!

Whether you’re trying to shed some weight or just enjoy a delicious summer treat, sinking your teeth into a juicy Australian mango is the way to go.

Sourced from NUTTAB 2010 nutrition per 100g