The Wonder of Mango and Its Health Benefits

"Mangifera indica" is the scientific name of mango. In France, it is called "mangera," "manga" in Portugal," "mangga" in Filipino, and "mango" in English-speaking countries like the United States, United Kingdom, Australia, and in some parts of Canada. In India, a mango tree symbolizes love because of its beauty. During "Pinggol" (the Hindu New Year), Indians hang fresh mango leaves outside their front door, this is considered a blessing to the house. In Philippines, some Filipinos believe that a mango tree can grant wishes.

A mango tree can grow up to 20 - 40 meters in height. They can be eaten unripe or ripe. The unripe mango is green in color and has a sour taste. The ripe mango is yellow in color and has a sweet-sour taste. They are very delicious when eaten with salt or fish sauce. Mango is one of the most favorite fruits and it is known as the king of fruits.

Mangoes are believed to be originated in East India, Burma, and Andaman Island bordering the Bay of Bengal. And around the 5th century B.C., the Buddhists were believed to have introduced the mango to Malaysia and Eastern Asia.

Mangoes have many healthy benefits. They are rich in Vitamin A and they are good for the eyes because they contain retinol which promotes good vision. They have beta carotene, which is an antioxidant that protects cells from damage. Mangoes are free of fat and cholesterol. They help form and maintain healthy teeth, skeletal, soft tissue, mucous bone, and skin. They can delay ageing too. Mangoes are rich too in vitamin C. They reduce risk of cancer. They contain vitamin K that protects bones from fractures. They are good source of vitamin B1, which is an "anti-stress" vitamin. They prevent migraine too and help promote fertility in both men and women.

It is recorded in 1995 by the Guiness Book of World Records that the "carabao mango" from the Philippines is the "world's sweetest mango" and the most delicious mango in the world. Mangoes are found in all markets in a full year season as in 12 months. However, the production is in its peak in November to February. India, China, Thailand, Indonesia, Mexico, Pakistan, Brazil are among the top producers and exporters of mangoes. Dried mangoes are also exported all over the world and produced in Cebu, Philippines.

Read more about foods and health on the following links:

http://expertscolumn.com/content/all-about-ice-cream
http://expertscolumn.com/content/10-healthiest-foods-man-should-eat
http://expertscolumn.com/content/dangers-cigarette-smoking