Are Mangoes Really the “King of Fruits?”

So many “superfoods,” so little time. We know. But when the superfood in question is as juicy and pulpy-perfect as a mango (mmmm … mangoes), it’s worth paying attention.

 

Research suggests mangoes may have a variety of health benefits, including, according to two recent studies, partly funded by the National Mango Board conducted by researchers at Texas A&M University and Oklahoma State University, possibly reducing the risk of chronic inflammation and metabolic disorders.

 

“Eating mangoes provides the body with a wide variety of vitamins, minerals and antioxidants as well as dietary fiber,” says Emily Kyle, MS, RDN, owner of Emily Kyle Nutrition.

 

The fruits are packed with vitamins A and C and are a good source of vitamin B6, as well as the minerals potassium and magnesium, Kyle says. What’s more, she notes, the antioxidants in mangoes may offer protection against some cancers, including breast, colon and prostate.

 

Kyle, who was not involved with the recent studies, says mangoes can rightfully be considered a “superfruit” or even a “king of fruits.”

 

“They may help lower bad cholesterol levels in the body, prevent and reduce the incidence of constipation with their high fiber content, and may even be able to improve gut health with their unique enzymes,” she says.

 

And of course, they are delicious — enjoyable straight up as well as when in everything from slaw to salsa, salad to smoothies. Kyle especially enjoys eating them for breakfast over plain Greek yogurt. (Check out her gorgeously photogenic Immune Boosting Tropical Breakfast Bowl.)

 

Kyle warns that eating mangoes is “not a ‘cure all’ or a ‘magic pill’ for good health.” But as part of an overall balanced diet, she notes, “they no doubt provide exceptional nutritional benefits.”

 

Bring on the golden-orange tropical orbs!

 

Amy Reiter is a writer and editor based in New York. Her work has appeared in publications including The Los Angeles Times, The New York Times, The Washington Post, The Daily Beast, Glamour and Marie Claire, as well as Salon, where she was a longtime editor and senior writer. In addition to contributing to Healthy Eats, she blogs for Food Network’s FN Dish.

*This article was written and/or reviewed by an independent registered dietitian nutritionist.

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