A recent American study has suggested that regular consumption of mangoes may significantly reduce the risk of heart-related ailments, including high blood pressure and elevated cholesterol levels, particularly among older women struggling with obesity.
According to a report published on a renowned medical website, the study was conducted by a team of health experts in the United States aiming to assess the impact of daily mango intake on cardiovascular health in postmenopausal women.
The research included a group of women aged between 50 and 70 years, all of whom were classified as obese and had existing medical complications such as hypertension and high cholesterol. The participants were observed over a two-week period during which they were asked to consume 350 grams of mango daily.
Blood samples were collected from the participants both before the commencement of the study and after the two-week trial period. The researchers then analysed the results to determine any physiological changes linked to the fruit’s consumption.
Findings revealed a notable decline in systolic blood pressure within just two hours of mango consumption. The study also observed a significant reduction in arterial stiffness, an indicator of improved vascular health.
In addition, the cholesterol levels of the women dropped by an average of 13 points—a shift considered medically beneficial. The researchers attributed this change to the bioactive compounds and dietary fibre naturally present in mangoes.
Interestingly, a subset of participants were instructed to consume white bread alongside mangoes to compare results. While both foods caused a temporary spike in blood sugar levels, the increase was considerably less in the mango group than in those who consumed white bread alone.
“Mangoes contain a rich combination of fibre, antioxidants, and polyphenols, which may contribute to improved heart health,” the study noted.
While the findings are promising, the researchers cautioned that more extensive and long-term studies would be needed to validate the results across diverse populations and health profiles.
The study adds to the growing body of evidence suggesting that dietary habits, particularly the inclusion of natural fruits rich in antioxidants and fibre, can play a vital role in managing chronic health conditions.
Source: SAMAA
Bd-Pratidin English/ARK
