Two clinical trials suggest moderate consumption may actually improve blood sugar levels in those with type 2 diabetes.
Mangoes and Diabetes: New Studies Uncover Surprising Benefits
Mangoes and Diabetes: New Studies Uncover Surprising Benefits
Recent Indian research challenges the notion that mangoes are detrimental for diabetics.
As summer descends upon India, a common inquiry among patients of Mumbai-based diabetologist Dr. Rahul Baxi is: "Can I eat mangoes?" This question, loaded with myths and misconceptions, ranges from strict avoidance to the belief that indulging might "reverse diabetes." However, recent research indicates that the answer is more nuanced.
Diabetes, particularly type 2, affects a staggering 77 million adults in India, according to the World Health Organization, and it remains a pressing public health challenge. As individuals grapple with their diets, especially in a season dominated by the popular mango, concerns about its impact on blood sugar levels loom large.
Two new studies are transforming the conversation around mangoes and diabetes. A pilot study set to be published in the European Journal of Clinical Nutrition involved 95 participants and found that consuming three popular Indian mango varieties—Safeda, Dasheri, and Langra—produced glycemic responses comparable to or even lower than those of white bread. Furthermore, continuous glucose monitoring showed that individuals with diabetes experienced smaller post-meal sugar fluctuations after consuming mangoes.
Dr. Sugandha Kehar, the lead author of both studies, emphasizes that these findings challenge the negative perceptions of mangoes. "These studies clearly indicate that within prescribed diets, mangoes do not have adverse effects on blood glucose and could even be beneficial," she noted.
A follow-up eight-week randomized trial from Delhi’s Fortis C-DOC further reinforced these findings. In this study, 35 adults with type 2 diabetes who replaced their regular breakfast bread with 250g of mango exhibited notable improvements in various metabolic health markers, including fasting glucose and HbA1c levels—suggesting enhanced control over diabetes.
Prof. Anoop Misra, who led the research, highlights the importance of moderation. "We demonstrated that small portions of mango can replace carbohydrates in breakfast without negative metabolic consequences," he explained, advising those interested in including mangoes in their diets to do so under medical supervision.
Dr. Baxi reiterates the importance of moderation, advising his patients to consume mangoes carefully—suggesting a half-portion that equates to about 15g of carbohydrates. He recommends pairing mangoes with protein or fiber and advises against consuming them alongside other sugary foods.
Culturally, mangoes hold a significant place in Indian society, celebrated in festivals and used as a symbol of diplomatic gestures. According to culinary historian Pushpesh Pant, the mango transcends mere food, equated with artistry and social currency in disputes and declarations alike.
Amidst the changing narratives surrounding this cherished fruit, one thing remains clear: the beloved mango, with over 1,000 varieties celebrated across the nation, continues to charm and surprise—even in the realm of health science. As the debate evolves, mangoes stand poised at the intersection of tradition and modern research, delighting those who seek to integrate pleasure within the parameters of health management.
Diabetes, particularly type 2, affects a staggering 77 million adults in India, according to the World Health Organization, and it remains a pressing public health challenge. As individuals grapple with their diets, especially in a season dominated by the popular mango, concerns about its impact on blood sugar levels loom large.
Two new studies are transforming the conversation around mangoes and diabetes. A pilot study set to be published in the European Journal of Clinical Nutrition involved 95 participants and found that consuming three popular Indian mango varieties—Safeda, Dasheri, and Langra—produced glycemic responses comparable to or even lower than those of white bread. Furthermore, continuous glucose monitoring showed that individuals with diabetes experienced smaller post-meal sugar fluctuations after consuming mangoes.
Dr. Sugandha Kehar, the lead author of both studies, emphasizes that these findings challenge the negative perceptions of mangoes. "These studies clearly indicate that within prescribed diets, mangoes do not have adverse effects on blood glucose and could even be beneficial," she noted.
A follow-up eight-week randomized trial from Delhi’s Fortis C-DOC further reinforced these findings. In this study, 35 adults with type 2 diabetes who replaced their regular breakfast bread with 250g of mango exhibited notable improvements in various metabolic health markers, including fasting glucose and HbA1c levels—suggesting enhanced control over diabetes.
Prof. Anoop Misra, who led the research, highlights the importance of moderation. "We demonstrated that small portions of mango can replace carbohydrates in breakfast without negative metabolic consequences," he explained, advising those interested in including mangoes in their diets to do so under medical supervision.
Dr. Baxi reiterates the importance of moderation, advising his patients to consume mangoes carefully—suggesting a half-portion that equates to about 15g of carbohydrates. He recommends pairing mangoes with protein or fiber and advises against consuming them alongside other sugary foods.
Culturally, mangoes hold a significant place in Indian society, celebrated in festivals and used as a symbol of diplomatic gestures. According to culinary historian Pushpesh Pant, the mango transcends mere food, equated with artistry and social currency in disputes and declarations alike.
Amidst the changing narratives surrounding this cherished fruit, one thing remains clear: the beloved mango, with over 1,000 varieties celebrated across the nation, continues to charm and surprise—even in the realm of health science. As the debate evolves, mangoes stand poised at the intersection of tradition and modern research, delighting those who seek to integrate pleasure within the parameters of health management.
