People name Mangosteen as the queen of fruits because of its unique taste that have a mix of lychee, peach, strawberry and pineapple.
Nutritional Facts of Mangosteen
Mangosteen is a rich source of antioxidants because of xanthones in its pulp. In effect Xanthones have anti- carcinogenic and anti- inflammatory effects. Also mangosteen contains great amount of vitamins and minerals like vitamin A, vitamin B6, niacin, thiamin, potassium, folate.
10 incredible Benefits of Mangosteen
1. Anti- carcinogenic
Due to the anti- carcinogenic effect of xanthones, mangosteens helps in fighting the development and spreading of cancer cells for instance in lung, liver and colon cancer.
2. Anti- inflammatory
The anti-inflammatory properties of xanthones plays a role in prevention of inflammatory diseases, such as cancer, heart disease, and diabetes.
3. For healthy skin
Mangosteen can be used to battle aging as it is a strong antioxidant, capable of neutralising free radicals in the body. That is why eating enough mangosteen can boost your body’s ability to remove those free radicals, thereby slowing aging, appearance of wrinkles and age spots. Its anti- inflammatory, anti- bacterial, anti- fungal, anti- allergy properties also protects skin conditions such as skin inflammation, eczema, allergies, and bacterial infections.
4. Boost immunity
Fibre and vitamin C in the fruit play an integral role for a healthy immune system. The reasons are firstly, fibre is responsible for healthy gut bacteria, which is an important component of immunity. Secondly, in like manner, vitamin C is required for the normal function of immune cells and has anti- oxidant properties.
5. Treating and preventing diabetes
Given that fibre is present in mangosteens, this in particular helps to control and stabilise blood sugar level.
6. Weight loss
Mangosteen is low in calories, has zero cholesterol and saturated fats. Not to mention that mangosteen is also rich in dietary fibre, which is beneficial if you are struggling with weight gain and obesity.
7. Heart health
Mangosteen is found to reduce cholesterol level effectively by scraping off LDL (bad cholesterol) from bloodstream before it can do any harm to your cardiovascular system. Meanwhile, it can raise your HDL (good cholesterol) level.
8. Digestive health
The fruit is found to be effective in relieving stomach conditions such as diarrhoea and dysentery. If you are suffering from diarrhoea, try eating mangosteens to see if it helps!
9. Healing
Mangosteen plays a role in wound healing due to its anti- bacterial and anti-inflammatory effects. Apply the leaves and barks of the tree to the wound for a faster recovery.
10. Alleviates menstrual problems
Mangosteen root aids in regulating menstrual cycle in women. It can also relieve the symptoms of premenstrual syndrome.
Words of caution: Mangosteen is likely safe for most people and there is very few reported adverse effects. However, xanthones is found to slow the process of blood clotting. So avoid concentrated sources of mangosteen or consult your healthcare provider if you have blood clotting conditions.
Conclusion
Mangosteen is a highly nutritious fruit providing a variety of essential vitamins, minerals and fibre while low in calories. Not only are mangosteens nutritious, but they are a great source of xanthones with many health giving properties. So enjoy these delicious fruit and feel the boost in your body!
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References:
- Meenakshi N. 12 Powerful Benefits of Mangosteen [Organicfacts]. Organic Information Services Pvt Ltd. 2019. [Available from: https://www.organicfacts.net/health-benefits/fruit/mangosteen.html?fbclid=IwAR0mtj146iAUUG_quLar8mEZ47wA-Kp1zWHRyWwvemd1nPDq9zpoCowLwkQ; last updated on 2019 Mar 13; assessed on 2019 May 5]
- United States Department of Agriculture. Basic report: 09177, mangosteen, canned, syrup pack [Internet]. National Nutrient Database for Standard Reference Legacy Release. 2018. [Available from: https://ndb.nal.usda.gov/ndb/foods/show/09177; last updated on 2018 Apr; accessed on 2019 May 5]
by Chang Xian
View all articles by Chang Xian.
