Food of the Week [Part I]: Meet the Mango at Her Active Life

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Food of the Week [Part I]: Meet the Mango

Posted May 29, 2008 at 02:00 PM by Katie Drummond

Section: Her Health, Her Nutrition, Healthy Eating, Recipes, Special Features, Food of the Week

mango

Although the wild mango can be traced back to 4,000 BCE, and was consumed by those living in the foothills of the Himalayas for thousands of years, you might not have enjoyed this early version of this springtime fruit. Apparently, the wild mango has a taste like turpentine and a texture like fibrous rope – hardly bears any similarity to the sweet and juicy taste we’ve come to know and love from this luscious treat.

Mangoes are in their prime between May and September, so enjoy them in-season for the best taste. These fruits contain a lengthy list of enzymes, many of which are reputed to stimulate metabolism and cleanse the intestinal tract. Mangoes also contain phenolic compounds, which research shows to be a powerful antioxidant and anticancer compound.

This is the perfect fruit for the athletes among us. Mangoes are high in potassium and magnesium, which will help with muscle cramps and bodily stress, and also give a quick hit of easy-to-digest carbohydrate for a post-workout snack.

Relax and imagine a tropical breeze after your next sweat session with this restorative, rejuvenating mango protein shake. With 15 grams of protein in one serving, it’s the perfect way to repair your muscles and energize your day.

Recipe Profile

Perfect For: A post-workout snack

Prep Time: 5 minutes

Servings: 1

Ingredients

1 cup soy milk (plain or vanilla)
½ scoop protein powder
½ cup frozen mango chunks
3 strawberries
1 tsp vanilla extract (optional)

Combine ingredients in a blender and go crazy!