Who doesn’t love mangoes? Apart from its incredible taste, mango is a storehouse of nutrients, antioxidants and fibre. The fruit which has ample amounts of vitamins A and C can also work wonders for your skin and hair. Not only does this king of fruits bring back our childhood memories but also tingles our taste buds. Do you remember, grandmothers often advised you to soak mangoes in water for at least an hour before consuming? Is it just a matter of preference or tradition, or is there a scientific reason behind it, what do you think? In this post, I am going to answer all the queries that come to your mind while soaking mangoes.
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Soaking Mangoes Benefits
It Gets Rid Of Phytic Acid
As per nutritionists, mangoes contain a natural molecule known as phytic acid which is considered an anti-nutrient. Phytic acid which is also seen in several fruits, vegetables and even nuts blocks the absorption of minerals like iron, zinc and calcium, thereby promoting mineral deficiencies.
However, soaking mangoes in water for a few hours can help eliminate this anti-nutrient from the fruit, facilitating better absorption of nutrients and making it a complete delight.
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Helps Remove Toxins
Mango sap contains a mixture of substances called polyphenols, tannins, and terpenes, which can cause itching, redness, and even blisters in some cases.
Soaking mangoes in water for a few minutes or hours before eating can help remove some of the milky sap and sap oil that may cause skin irritation, especially for people with sensitive skin or allergies. By soaking the mangoes, the water can dilute and dissolve these irritants, making the fruit safer to handle and eat. It also removes toxins like pesticides and insecticides that are used on crops to protect them. These are poisonous and can affect the body causing different side effects like respiratory tract irritation, allergic sensitisation, headache, eye irritation, nausea and so on.
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Enhances Flavour
Do you know that soaking mangoes can also enhance their flavour and texture? Mangoes are rich in natural sugars, organic acids, and volatile compounds such as terpenes and esters- all these contribute to their aroma and taste. But these compounds may evaporate or degrade when the mangoes are exposed to air, heat, or cold, leading to a loss of flavour and aroma. We can bring back some of its natural sweetness and fragrance just by soaking the mangoes as the water helps in rehydrating and revitalizing the fruit.
Works As Fat Buster
Mangoes have a lot of phytochemicals which can be harmful in excess quantities, but beneficial in smaller doses.
Studies have shown that phytochemicals and bioactive compounds in mango may suppress fat cells and fat-related genes. After mangoes are soaked in water, the concentration of phytochemicals decreases making them act as natural fat busters. This way, it acts as a catalyst in your weight loss journey. Apart from weight control, phytochemicals also provide protection against inflammation and oxidative stress.
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Reduces Heat & Keeps It Cool
Mangoes are bad-mouthed for generating heat in the body resulting in the production of thermogenesis. Consuming it in large quantities can cause excessive heat and create a digestive imbalance in the body. Therefore, soaking mangoes in water for at least half an hour reduces their thermogenic properties — essentially their tendency to produce heat — which effectively keeps our body heat stable even after consuming mangoes.
Not only these, soaking mangoes has several other benefits. It helps to reduce the degree of flatulence caused due to undigested oligosaccharides. Soaking mangoes also helps prevent acne, skin issues, headaches, constipation and other gut issues. So, the next time you grab a basket of mangoes, consider soaking them before storing and relishing their juicy goodness.
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How To Soak Mangoes?
Simply fill a bowl with clean water and submerge the mangoes for 15-30 minutes if you are in a hurry. Otherwise, it is advisable to let them soak for 1-2 hours. Further, there is no harm in soaking them for a longer duration.
Some people also add salt, vinegar, or lemon juice to the water to enhance the soaking effect or add a tangy taste. After soaking, drain the water and pat dry the mangoes with a towel or paper napkin. Let them cool! And then you can peel, slice, or dice the mangoes as desired and enjoy them as a snack, dessert, or ingredient in various recipes.