New Research Suggests Mangoes Can Lower Diabetes Risk

Mangoes have emerged as a potential ally in lowering insulin resistance, a key factor in the prevention of diabetes. This finding comes from a fresh study published in the journal Nutrients, which highlights the fruit’s benefits for individuals at risk of developing the condition.

Study Overview and Methodology

Conducted by researchers at the Illinois Institute of Technology, the study aimed to assess how fresh mango consumption influences inflammation and insulin sensitivity among overweight and obese adults suffering from low-grade chronic inflammation. This research involved 48 participants aged between 20 and 60, who were divided into two groups.

One group was tasked with consuming two pre-portioned cups of mango daily, while the other group was asked to consume a similar calorie count of Italian ice, a sweet frozen dessert similar to sorbet. Other than these specific dietary changes, participants were instructed to maintain their regular dietary habits and lifestyle choices.

Impact on Insulin Resistance

The results were significant. Participants who consumed mangoes experienced notable reductions in insulin resistance, while improvements in beta-cell function were also recorded. Beta cells are essential for the pancreas’ ability to produce and manage insulin in response to glucose levels.

After four weeks of daily mango consumption, participants showed lower insulin concentrations compared to their baseline measurements. In contrast, no significant changes were observed in the control group consuming Italian ice.

Expert Insights

Professor Indika Edirisinghe, the study’s lead researcher, offered insightful comments on the findings. He stated that managing blood glucose levels goes beyond simply monitoring sugar levels, as it involves enhancing insulin sensitivity. He emphasized that integrating fresh mangoes into one’s diet could provide a simple yet enjoyable method for those facing obesity to improve their insulin function and mitigate type 2 diabetes risk.