Short Answer:
Yes, Mangoes are Paleo!
Mangoes
Mangoes have been part of the human diet for over 4,000 years and they have been named the most widely consumed fruit in the world! They are seasonal fruits that grow in the tropics and are believed to have originated from the sub-Himalayan plains of the Indian continent. Mangoes come from the drupe family Anaracardiaceae together with the flowering plants such as cashew and pistachio.
One of the most popular, nutritionally rich fruits, mangoes have unique, sweet taste and its color, shape and size depends on its cultivar. The common ripe mango has a yellow-orange skin with oval-shaped, large seed. It is very juicy and has a mild tangy flavor.
Mangoes are usually eaten alone as a snack or dessert. They can also be added into main dishes, fruit salads and salsas. They can be made into juices, smoothies and ice creams too.
Nutritional Value of Mangoes
Mangoes are very low in cholesterol, saturated fat and sodium. They are an excellent source of dietary fiber and vitamin B6. They contain a good source of vitamins A and C. They are also rich in minerals potassium, magnesium and copper. Mangoes are full of polyphenols and phytochemicals and they are one of the best sources of quercetin, betacarotene, and astragalin. These are antioxidants that help the body maintain a healthy immune system.
Health Benefits of Mangoes
Boosts Immunity
Mangoes are rich in beta-carotene which helps enhance the immune system of the body and make it resistant to bacteria and toxins. The excess beta-carotene is transformed into vitamin A that gives additional protection against the free radicals that can harm the internal systems.
Digestive Support
Mangoes contain digestive enzymes that help to promote natural, efficient digestion. It plays a vital role in eliminating digestive problems such as indigestion and hyperacidity. The bioactive ingredients in mangoes like esters, terpenes and aldehydes contribute to enhancing appetite and improve digestive system function. Mangoes are also rich in fiber and water content that helps prevent constipation and promote healthy digestive system.
Heart Health
The potassium and magnesium in mangoes are natural remedies for high blood pressure. Mangoes also have high amounts of soluble fiber pectin that helps lower blood cholesterol levels.
Diabetes Management and Prevention
Some studies have revealed that mangoes can improve and lower blood sugar levels because of its high fiber content.
Eye Health
Mangoes contain antioxidant zeaxanthin which plays a role in protecting the eye against macular degeneration related to aging.
Slows Down Signs of Aging
The high amounts of vitamins A and C found in mangoes help in producing collagen which helps protect the blood vessels and connective tissues in the body. This in the long run aids in slowing down the skin’s aging process.
Brain Function
Vitamin B6 is essential in maintaining and improving the brain’s function. It aids in the amalgamation of the major neurotransmitters that contributes in determining mood and the modification of sleeping patterns. Because mangoes are rich in vitamin B6, regular consumption can assure a healthy brain and effective nerve functioning.
Cancer Prevention
Research shows that the high levels of antioxidants quercetin, isoquercitrin, astragalin, fisetin, gallic acid and methylgalla in mangoes can protect against certain cancers.
Mango Allergies
Since mangoes belong to the Anacardiaceae family and are therefore a distant relative of poison ivy, some people can have allergic reaction to it. Mangoes contain a small amount of urushinol, a toxic resin that can cause dermatitis. While the flesh of the mango has a relatively low chance of inducing this allergic reaction, the peel and juice of mangoes are more responsible for this allergy. The severity of the allergic reaction can also vary from individuals.
Other Names for Mangoes
mangot, manga, and mangou
All you ever wanted to know about Mangoes and Paleo
The Paleo Diet. Fruits & Sugard
http://thepaleodiet.com/fruits-and-sugars/
Merry Maker Sisters. Why Are Mangoes Good For You on a Paleo Lifestyle?
https://themerrymakersisters.com/paleo-magoes-good-for-you/
Paleo Porn. Are Mangoes Paleo?
https://paleoporn.com/q/are-mangoes-paleo/
Paleo Grubs. Foods You Can Eat on the Paleo Diet
http://paleogrubs.com/paleo-diet-food-list
Livestrong. What Are the Benefits of Eating Mangoes?
http://www.livestrong.com/article/403571-what-are-the-benefits-of-eating-mangoes/
Organic Facts. 11 Surprising Benefits Of Mangoes
https://www.organicfacts.net/health-benefits/fruit/mango.html
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photo credit: Gemma Maree Summer’s Here