African Mango: A Fruit With Health-Promoting Properties
The African mango (Irvingia gabonensis) is a fruit that has been used for centuries in traditional African medicine to treat a variety of ailments. In recent years, the African mango has gained attention as a potential weight loss supplement, but it offers a range of other health benefits as well.
**What is African Mango?**
The African mango is a large, sweet fruit that is native to West and Central Africa. The fruit is typically green when unripe and turns yellow or orange when ripe. The flesh of the fruit is juicy and fibrous, with a sweet and sour flavor.
**Nutritional Value of African Mango**
The African mango is a good source of several nutrients, including:
* Fiber
* Vitamins A, C, and E
* Minerals such as potassium, magnesium, and calcium
* Antioxidants
**Health Benefits of African Mango**
The African mango has been linked to a number of health benefits, including:
* **Weight loss:** The African mango contains a compound called Irvingia gabonensis seed extract (IGSE), which has been shown to promote weight loss. IGSE works by inhibiting the absorption of fat and carbohydrates from the diet.
* **Cholesterol reduction:** The African mango has been shown to reduce cholesterol levels, both in animals and humans. This is likely due to the fruit's high fiber content, which helps to bind to cholesterol and prevent it from being absorbed into the bloodstream.
* **Blood sugar control:** The African mango may help to control blood sugar levels. The fruit's fiber content helps to slow down the absorption of sugar into the bloodstream, which can help to prevent spikes in blood sugar levels.
* **Antioxidant protection:** The African mango is a good source of antioxidants, which can help to protect the body from damage caused by free radicals. Free radicals are unstable molecules that can damage cells and DNA, contributing to aging and disease.
**How to Consume African Mango**
The African mango can be consumed in a variety of ways, including:
* Fresh
* Dried
* Juice
* Supplement
The fruit is most commonly consumed fresh, but it can also be dried and powdered for use in supplements. African mango supplements are typically available in capsule or tablet form.
**Safety Considerations**
The African mango is generally considered safe for consumption. However, people who are taking blood thinners or diabetes medications should consult with their doctor before taking African mango supplements. The fruit may also interact with certain medications, such as statins and ACE inhibitors.
**Conclusion**
The African mango is a fruit with a wide range of health-promoting properties. The fruit is a good source of fiber, vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. It has been linked to several health benefits, including weight loss, cholesterol reduction, blood sugar control, and antioxidant protection. The African mango can be consumed in a variety of ways, including fresh, dried, juice, or supplement.
