Mango, “The king of fruits” is loved by all & favorite among kids. The juicy mango is the best retreat from the hot summers for adults and kids alike. This fruit not only hydrates the body but its rich taste has the power to soothe the taste buds. Also, the health benefits associated with mangoes can’t be ignored. Whether you eat it or gulp down in the form of mango shake, either way, it tastes delicious.

Benefits of Mango for Children-

Mango boasts of an abundance of nutrients, such as antioxidants, minerals, vitamins, and other vital nutrients, that are beneficial for kids. Here are some prominent health benefits of mangoes for kids.

1. Improved Vision: Just one cup of mango slices comprises 25% of daily recommended intake of vitamin A of kids. Vitamin A is highly beneficial for good eyesight.
2. Promotes Digestion: Mangoes are known to be a rich source of digestive enzymes that, in turn, help in breaking down of proteins. This boosted process further leads to better digestion in kids. Also, as an added benefit, mangoes thwart acidity or other digestive disorders that occur commonly in kids.
3. Memory Booster: Mangoes are rich in Glutamine acid which acts as a memory booster.
4. Prevents Cancer: Mangoes are rich in pectin, a soluble dietary fiber that helps minimize the risk of development of cancer of gastrointestinal tract in your kids.
5. Treats Anemia: High iron content in the mangoes helps cure anemia in kids.
6. Promotes Weight Gain: A moderate intake of mangoes is one of the simplest ways to enhance your kid’s weight effectively.

Below are some lip smacking & easy mango recipes for kids :

1. Mango Shake

Ingredients: Finely cut fresh mango, Sugar, A glass of milk, Ice cubes

Method: Mix finely cut mango, sugar, and milk in a big bowl. Use a blender to mix it well. Keep it blending until it turns into a complete liquid. Add ice cubes if needed and serve it chilled to your kids.

2.  Mango Popsicles: This is the easiest. You need mango pulp, fresh cream or yogurt and sugar on an optional basis. Mix all the ingredients above and put them into Kulfi moulds. Allow them to freeze for 1 hour. Take out the moulds and insert a stick inside. Further allow it to freeze for 3 to 4 hours. While you serve take it out of the freezer and unmold after few minutes.

3. Mango Salad:

Ingredients: 2-3 fresh and peeled mangoes, A lemon, Salt, Pinch of cayenne pepper, Chilli powder (optional)

Method: Peel and chop the mangoes and place them in a deep bowl. Mix salt, pepper, chilli powder, and lemon in another bowl. Now mix the prepared mixture with the mangoes and serve it to your kid.

4. Mango Lassi:

Ingredients: 1 cup diced mango, 1 cup plain non-fat yogurt, 1/2 cup milk, 2 tablespoons sugar, Dash of cinnamon (optional)

Method:  Add all of the ingredients to the bowl of a blender. Puree until smooth. Serve immediately!

5. Mini Mango Banana Cupcakes:

Ingredients:  1/2 cups self raising flour, 125 g softened butter, 3 eggs; light whisked, 1/4 cup milk, 1/4 cup honey, 2 mashed bananas, 1 finely sliced mango cheek

Method: Pre-heat oven to 180 C/350 F. Sift the flour into a bowl. Add the remaining ingredients except the mango. Beat on medium speed for 2 – 3 minutes. Fill mini pastry cases 3/4 full. Top with a slice of mango and an extra drizzle of honey if you like. Bake for 15 minutes.