The African mango, also known as Irvingia gabonensis, is a fruit native to West and Central Africa. It has been traditionally used for centuries for medicinal purposes, including weight loss and blood sugar regulation. In recent years, it has gained popularity as a dietary supplement for weight management.
**How Does African Mango Work?**
African mango contains a number of bioactive compounds, including fiber, polyphenols, and a unique fat called IGOB131. These compounds work together to promote weight loss by:
* **Increasing satiety:** The fiber in African mango helps you feel full and satisfied, reducing your overall calorie intake.
* **Suppressing appetite:** African mango has been shown to inhibit the production of ghrelin, a hormone that stimulates hunger.
* **Boosting metabolism:** IGOB131 has been found to increase thermogenesis, the process by which your body burns calories.
* **Reducing fat absorption:** African mango may also help reduce the absorption of dietary fat, further promoting weight loss.
**Benefits of African Mango**
In addition to weight loss, African mango has also been shown to offer a number of other potential benefits, including:
* **Improved blood sugar control:** African mango may help regulate blood sugar levels, making it potentially beneficial for people with diabetes or prediabetes.
* **Reduced cholesterol levels:** Studies have shown that African mango can help lower cholesterol levels, including LDL (bad cholesterol) and triglycerides.
* **Enhanced liver health:** African mango may protect the liver from damage and improve its function.
* **Antioxidant effects:** African mango is rich in antioxidants, which can help protect your cells from damage caused by free radicals.
**How to Use African Mango**
African mango supplements are typically available in capsule or extract form. The recommended dosage varies depending on the product, but it is generally around 1-3 grams per day. It is important to follow the dosage instructions on the supplement label.
African mango can be taken with or without food, but it is best to avoid taking it with high-fat meals, as this can reduce absorption.
**Precautions**
African mango is generally safe for most people, but there are some potential side effects to be aware of, including:
* **Digestive upset:** Some people may experience mild digestive upset, such as nausea or diarrhea.
* **Interactions with medications:** African mango may interact with certain medications, such as blood thinners and diabetes medications. It is important to talk to your doctor before taking African mango if you are taking any medications.
* **Not suitable for pregnant or nursing women:** African mango is not recommended for pregnant or nursing women.
**Conclusion**
African mango is a promising natural supplement for weight loss and blood sugar regulation. It is important to talk to your doctor before taking African mango to ensure it is right for you.