A newly published study found that mangoes may reduce insulin resistance and help prevent the development of Type 2 diabetes.
Researchers examined how consuming fresh mangoes affects insulin sensitivity in overweight and obese adults with low-grade chronic inflammation. The impact was then compared to a group of adults who consume equivalent calories from Italian ice, a sugar-laden frozen treat.
The study, published in the journal Nutrients and conducted by researchers at the Illinois Institute of Technology, found that the group that ate mangoes had substantially reduced insulin resistance.
The small study included 48 adults aged 20 to 60. Depending on their group, the participants were required to eat a pre-portioned mango or Italian ice each day. Otherwise, they were asked to make no other changes and follow their typical diet and lifestyle.
In addition to lower insulin resistance, the researchers noted material improvements in beta-cell function in the mango-consuming group. This means their pancreas improved its ability to produce and release insulin to manage normal glucose concentrations.
Following four weeks on the new diet, the mango group showed significantly lower insulin concentrations than the start. The control group, however, did not show any changes over the same period.
“Managing blood glucose isn’t just about monitoring blood sugar levels — it’s about improving insulin sensitivity,” said study lead and professor Indika Edirisinghe, per SciTechDaily.
“Our study suggests that adding fresh mangos to the diet can be a simple, enjoyable way for people who are overweight or have obesity to support better insulin function and reduce type 2 diabetes risk.”