Counteracting The 'Heating' Effect
In Ayurveda, foods are classified by their inherent nature—either cooling (sheetal) or heating (ushna). Mangoes are considered to have a thermogenic effect, meaning they tend to increase heat in the body. For some individuals, consuming too many mangoes
can manifest as skin issues like acne and boils, or digestive discomfort. This is often linked to an aggravation of the 'Pitta' dosha. Soaking mangoes in water for a few hours before eating is believed to reduce this heating property. The water helps leach out compounds that contribute to this effect, making the fruit easier on the system. It’s a simple, traditional method to enjoy the king of fruits without the potential after-effects.
Neutralising An 'Anti-Nutrient'
Beyond tradition, there’s a compelling scientific reason to soak mangoes. They contain a natural substance called phytic acid, which is often referred to as an 'anti-nutrient.' Phytic acid is found in many plant-based foods, including nuts, grains, and fruits. While not harmful in small amounts, it can interfere with the body's ability to absorb essential minerals like iron, zinc, calcium, and magnesium. Soaking mangoes in a water solution helps activate the enzyme phytase, which breaks down phytic acid. This process effectively reduces the phytic acid content, allowing your body to get the maximum nutritional benefit from the delicious fruit. A pinch of salt in the water can help accelerate this process through osmosis.
A Cleaner, Safer Fruit
In today's world, it's wise to be mindful of what's on the surface of our produce. Mangoes, like other fruits, are often treated with pesticides and chemicals to protect them during cultivation and transport. While a simple rinse is good, soaking offers a more thorough cleaning. Submerging them in water, especially a mild saltwater solution, helps to dislodge and dissolve surface-level contaminants, dirt, and residual pesticides. The salt acts as a natural disinfectant and abrasive, providing a deeper clean than running water alone. This ensures that the fruit you are about to enjoy is as clean and safe as possible.
Avoiding The Sticky Sap
Have you ever noticed a sticky, milky fluid oozing from the stem of a mango? This is a latex sap that can be a nuisance. For most people, it's just sticky, but for those with sensitive skin, it can cause irritation or a mild allergic reaction around the mouth. This sap contains compounds that can also impart a slightly bitter taste if consumed. Soaking the mangoes helps to draw out and wash away this excess latex from the skin and stem end. This simple step not only prevents potential skin irritation but also ensures a purely sweet and flavourful eating experience, free from any astringent aftertaste.
The Perfect Mango Soak: A Simple How-To
Incorporating this step into your routine is incredibly easy. All you need is a large bowl, water, and some salt. Place your mangoes in the bowl and fill it with enough cool or room-temperature water to submerge them completely. There’s no need for ice-cold water. Add about half a teaspoon of salt (rock salt or regular table salt will do) and let the mangoes soak. The ideal duration is anywhere from 30 minutes to two hours. If you're short on time, even 20-30 minutes is beneficial. Once they are done soaking, give them a final rinse under clean running water before you peel, slice, and dive in. It's a small investment of time for a much-improved mango experience.
