African mango, also known as Irvingia gabonensis, is a fruit native to West and Central Africa. It has been used for centuries in traditional medicine to treat a variety of ailments. In recent years, African mango has gained popularity as a natural supplement for weight loss and blood sugar control. Here are 10 surprising health benefits of African mango:
**1. May Aid in Weight Loss**
African mango contains a fiber called pectin, which can help promote a feeling of fullness and reduce appetite. Studies have shown that people who take African mango supplements may lose more weight than those who do not.
**2. May Help Lower Blood Sugar Levels**
African mango has been shown to lower blood sugar levels in both diabetic and non-diabetic individuals. It is believed to work by improving insulin sensitivity and increasing glucose uptake into cells.
**3. May Improve Lipid Profile**
African mango may help improve lipid profiles by lowering LDL (bad) cholesterol and triglycerides. It may also help increase HDL (good) cholesterol.
**4. May Reduce Inflammation**
African mango contains antioxidants that may help reduce inflammation throughout the body. Inflammation is linked to a number of chronic diseases, including heart disease, cancer, and arthritis.
**5. May Boost Energy Levels**
African mango is a good source of vitamins and minerals, including vitamin C, potassium, and magnesium. These nutrients can help boost energy levels and improve overall well-being.
**6. May Improve Mood**
African mango has been shown to improve mood and reduce symptoms of depression. It is believed to work by increasing serotonin levels in the brain.
**7. May Support Healthy Skin and Hair**
African mango is a good source of vitamin A and vitamin E. These nutrients are essential for healthy skin and hair. Vitamin A helps to repair and regenerate skin cells, while vitamin E protects against damage from free radicals.
**8. May Promote Digestive Health**
African mango contains fiber, which can help promote digestive health. Fiber helps to bulk up stools and promote regularity. It may also help to reduce symptoms of constipation and diarrhea.
**9. May Support Immune Function**
African mango is a good source of vitamin C, which is an important nutrient for immune function. Vitamin C helps to protect against infection and promote wound healing.
**10. May Have Anti-Cancer Properties**
Some studies have shown that African mango may have anti-cancer properties. It is believed to work by inhibiting the growth of cancer cells and promoting apoptosis (cell death).
African mango is a safe and effective natural supplement that offers a variety of health benefits. If you are considering taking African mango supplements, be sure to talk to your doctor first to discuss the potential benefits and risks.