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Mangoes and Their Health BenefitsMangoes are generally sweet. However, the taste and texture of the flesh varies considerably. Some mangoes have a soft and pulpy texture, similar to an overripe plum. Others have firmer flesh, more like an avocado or a cantaloupe. Some varieties also have fibrous flesh. Mangoes can be consumed either ripe or unripe. They can be eaten fresh or used in cooking. Unripe mangoes are usually used in cooking and can be cooked with the skin intact. The ripe fruit is generally eaten raw, and the skin is discarded. Mangoes are used in various recipes, particularly in Pakistani and Indian cuisine. They can be used in pickles, chutneys, side dishes, curries and other savory dishes. Apart from being eaten as they are, ripe mangoes can also be made into smoothies, juices, ice creams, pies and fruit bars. They can also be dried and preserved. The flesh of mangoes contains many vitamins and minerals. This includes Vitamin A, Vitamin B6, Vitamin C, dietary fiber, fat, protein, beta-carotene, niacin, riboflavin, folate, thiamine, iron, calcium, pantothenic acid, iron, magnesium, potassium, zinc and phosphorous. Mango peel, on the other hand, contains antioxidants and carotenoids including lutein, alpha-carotene, quercetin and xanthone. Note that mangoes can lead to allergic reactions in some people. This is because the mango peel contains urushinol, a toxic resin that causes dermatitis. This substance is also found in poison ivy. However, if the peel is removed and only the flesh is eaten, mangoes should not cause any problems at all. Many nutritionists recommend adding mangoes to an individual's diet because of the health benefits. Benefits of Mangoes
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