Alphonso Mango - Health Benefits, Uses and Important Facts

Alphonso Mango, a variety of mango that is particularly popular in India, becomes a national preoccupation there every year around mango season. It is a source of great pride in the region where it is produced, and it is also included in the list of the 1000 finest foods to eat before you die. If you prefer melon, apricot, nectarine, and peach, you'll probably enjoy the Alphonso Mango.

When the Alphonso Mango season first begins, it becomes national news because of the public's insatiable need for the fruit. The availability and cost of these items are also constantly updated in the media. People are willing to pay a premium for the greatest taste during its brief season.

Alphonso mangoes are at least 20% more expensive than other types of mango. Although the Alphonso mango can be somewhat expensive, the quality and uniqueness of the fruit ensure that it is well worth the investment. Alphonso has more flavorful pulp and thinner, more resilient peel. As a result of its smaller seed compared to other mango cultivars, there is more pulp to enjoy.

Origin of Alphonso mango:

Alphonso travelled to India around the same time as the Portuguese in the fifteenth century. Alphonso was initially shown to the globe at the Colombian Food Exchange, where he was featured alongside other innovative products. To honour the Portuguese general who conquered Goa and founded the Portuguese colonies in India, the name "Alphonso" was given to the baby.

Taste of Alphonso mango: 

The pulp of an Alphonso is silky smooth and its flavour is sweet and creamy. In addition, it has a unique fragrance compared to its competitors. Myrcene, a substance present in plants, gives it its distinctive aroma.

Alphonso mango season: 

Summer is when you may find Alphonso mangoes in stores. The months of April and May tend to be the busiest. The window of availability is anywhere from 6 to 8 weeks.

Nutritional value of Alphonso mango: 

Vitamins A, C, K, and others are present in Alphonso mangoes, as are minerals like Magnesium, Manganese, Phosphorus, and others, making them a very healthy fruit. Use Alphonso as a part of your weight loss and digestion routine to get results faster.

Ways to eat Alphonso mango:

The fresher and rawer, in whatever form (purée, juice, sliced), the better. Mangoes can be dried and used as a salad ingredient at a later time. Mango puree can also be used as a sweetener in baked goods.

Fun facts about Alphonso mango: 

1. Alphonso is derived from the name of a Portuguese general, Afonso de Albuquerque.
2. Former U.S. President George W. Bush said the Alphonso mango he had on his first trip to India in 2006 was the best fruit he had ever eaten.
3. An agreement was reached between the United States and India to trade Harley motorcycles for Alphonso mangoes.
4. In terms of mango prices, Alphonso is the costliest.
5. On the day the new monarch was crowned in 1953, Britain received its first shipment of Alphonso products.
6. Vitamin E, Vitamin A, Carotene, etc. can all be found in Alphonso, making it an extremely nutritious food choice.

Health benefits of Alphonso mangoes: 

Promotes weight loss:

The polyphenols found in Alphonso mango have been demonstrated to diminish fat cells and fat-related genes.

Protects against cancer and lowers risk:

Mangoes' nutrient content has been shown to aid in the body's battle against cancerous cells. Animal studies have shown that this method can effectively lessen tumour size. Similarly, a different study demonstrated that mango may be helpful in treating breast cancer in its early stages.

Promotes healthy digestion:

Alphonso might be a helpful addition to the routine of those who suffer from constipation. Mangoes are beneficial because their high fibre content aids digestion and makes bowel movements less painful.

Promotes general well-being:

Vitamins A and C, along with a plethora of minerals and antioxidants, may be found in abundance in Alphonso mangoes. Mangos have been shown to improve the health of a wide variety of body systems, including bones, muscles, the immune system, skin, and eyes.