Mangoes are one of the most popular and beloved fruits around the world. Their sweet, creamy flesh and exotic flavors make them a tasty treat. However, eating unripe mangoes can cause several health issues.
Here are 5 key disadvantages of consuming unripe mangoes that you should know about:
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1. Gastrointestinal Problems
Unripe mangoes contain higher amounts of a substance called amygdalin. This compound can irritate your gastrointestinal tract, leading to symptoms like diarrhea, vomiting, nausea, abdominal pain, and bloating.
The high fiber content of raw mangoes can also aggravate digestion troubles. The unripe fruit has not yet developed its full complement of digestive enzymes that help break down fiber. This can result in cramps, gas, and loose stools if you eat too much of the raw fruit.
To avoid tummy troubles, allow mangoes to properly ripen before eating them. Ripe mangoes have lower amygdalin levels and higher concentrations of beneficial enzymes for better digestion.
2. Oral Inflammation
The acidic nature of raw green mangoes can erode tooth enamel and cause oral inflammation. Unripe mangoes have a higher concentration of acids that can irritate your gums, cheeks, palate, and tongue.
Eating the raw fruit may leave you with mouth ulcers, bleeding gums, and a burned sensation on your soft tissues. In the long run, the high acidity also destroys tooth enamel, leading to cavities, sensitive teeth, and other dental issues.
So for the sake of your oral health, wait until mangoes are ripe and sweet before biting into them. The ripe fruit’s sugar helps neutralize its acidity, making it gentler on your mouth.
3. Allergic Reactions
Some individuals may be allergic to chemicals present in unripe mangoes. Amygdalin, the compound responsible for the fruit’s bitterness, is one potential allergen. Other substances like urushiol can also trigger allergic reactions in sensitive people.
Symptoms of a mango allergy include rashes, itching, swelling, breathing difficulties, and anaphylaxis. The severity depends on your level of sensitivity and the amount consumed.
To avoid allergic responses, allow mangoes to ripen fully. Ripe fruits have lower concentrations of potential allergens due to changes during the ripening process. Introduce mango to your diet cautiously and discontinue consumption if you observe any adverse reactions.
4. Nutrient Loss
Unripe fruits are not at their optimal nutritional value. As mangoes ripen, they develop higher concentrations of antioxidants, vitamins, minerals, and beneficial plant compounds. Consuming mangoes prematurely means you miss out on this beneficial nutrition.
For instance, vitamin C levels are drastically lower in raw mangoes. Ripe mangoes contain nearly three times more vitamin C, which helps boost immunity and acts as an antioxidant. Similarly, unripe mangoes have only traces of vitamin A and carotenoids as compared to ripe fruit.
Waiting for mangoes to ripen ensures you get the full spectrum of nutrients, vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, and phytochemicals that benefit health in diverse ways. Don’t deprive yourself of mangoes’ nutrition by eating them prematurely.
5. Choking Hazard
The firm fibrous texture of raw mangoes makes them a choking risk, especially for children. Unripe fruit is harder to chew and properly masticate before swallowing. The chunks can get lodged in the throat, blocking the airway partially or fully.
This can lead to coughing, gagging, and difficulty breathing. In severe cases, it may even cause death by asphyxiation if the blocked airway is not cleared in time. Kids are at higher risk as they often swallow hastily without chewing properly.
To avoid this dangerous outcome, always peel and slice mangoes into thin slivers or small pieces before serving to children. Wait until mangoes ripen before giving them whole to kids for conspicuous reasons.
In summary, unripe mangoes can harm your digestive system, oral health, nutrient intake, and even block your airway. Allow mangoes to fully ripen for a sweet, nourishing treat that delights your taste buds without harming your body. Follow basic precautions and introduce mangoes gradually to avoid adverse reactions. With some care and patience, you can safely enjoy mango’s amazing flavors and health benefits.
