Amazing Nutritional and Health Benefits of Mangosteen

Photo by: Bigstockphoto
Photo by: Bigstockphoto

Mangosteen is a tropical evergreen tree native to South East Asia. The mangosteen tree is cultivated for its fruit. The fruit is similar in size to an average orange. It has purple rind and white flesh. The mangosteen fruit has a tangy, sweet taste and inedible seeds. As with most fruits from its genus, the mangosteen is a rich source of nutrients. And in today’s post, we are listing down all the amazing benefits you can get from eating mangosteen:

Full of Antioxidants

Various scientific studies show that mangosteen contains a class of occurring polyphenol compounds known as xanthones. Mangosteen has two types of xanthones – alpha mangosteen and gamma mangosteen – both of which are beneficial to the health. Xanthones are potent anti-inflammatory agents. These compounds protect from all types of cardiovascular disorders. Xanthones also repair damaged cells caused by free radicals. This slows down aging, combats degenerative diseases and prevent mental and physical deterioration!

Low in Calories, High in Fiber

If you’re on the lookout for a high-fiber, low-calorie snack, give mangosteen a chance! This fruit is extremely low in calories. It yields about 63 calories per 100 grams. It contains zero saturated fats or cholesterol. It’s loaded with dietary fiber. 100 grams of mangosteen satisfies 13% of your recommended daily allowance (RDA) of fiber! Mangosteen is perfect as a snack. Eat it on its own, as an ingredient in salads or as a smoothie!

Rich in Vitamin C

Eating 100 grams of mangosteen satisfies your RDA of vitamin C. Vitamin C is a water-soluble nutrient that strengthens the immune system and reverses the signs of aging. It also acts as antioxidants to protect from oxidative stress. This nutrient also scavenge harmful inflammatory free radicals and destroys them before they attack healthy cells! Vitamin C also keeps the teeth and gums healthy! Eating mangosteen also protects from atherosclerosis, boosts vision and cuts the risk of developing cataracts!

Promotes Better Circulation

Mangosteen promotes better circulation and prevents anemia. The fruit dilates the blood vessels, protecting the body from arterial and cardiovascular diseases. It improves blood flow, lowers cholesterol and prevents heart congestion. The fruit also regulates the level of triglycerides to keep the heart healthy and strong!

Mangosteen also contains a long list of nutrients – including copper, manganese, magnesium and potassium. These nutrients also keep the heart strong. Eating mangosteen regularly cuts the risk of coronary heart diseases and stroke. They also regulate the heart rate and blood pressure.

Protects from Viral, Fungal and Bacterial Infections

Did you know mangosteen contains powerful antifungal, antibacterial and antiviral properties? A diet rich in mangosteen prevents weakened immune system and most types of infections. The fruit is traditionally used to treat tuberculosis and inflamed joints. In some cases, mangosteen is given to those who suffer from severe sciatica pains that cannot be controlled by drug treatment.

Cuts the Risk of Cancer

Add mangosteen to our long list of cancer-fighting superfoods! The fruit is loaded with antioxidants and vitamins that cut the risks of certain cancers. These compounds reverse oxidative stress. Research shows that oxidative stress is the precursor to mutated, cancer cells. By inhibiting cell mutation, antioxidants protects from cancer!