New research suggests that fresh mangoes may help improve cardiovascular metabolic health.
A study published in Nutrients found that consuming two cups of mango daily—containing only about 100 calories—may help reduce insulin levels and improve insulin sensitivity in overweight or obese adults with low-grade chronic inflammation.
The findings highlight how simple dietary choices can help reduce the risk of chronic diseases—such as type 2 diabetes—which are closely linked to heart health.
A study conducted at the Illinois Institute of Technology with 48 adults aged 20 to 60 examined how consuming fresh mango—compared to an equivalent-calorie food, Italian gelato (a frozen dessert similar to sorbet)—affected inflammation and insulin sensitivity in overweight adults with low-grade chronic inflammation.
The results showed that participants who consumed mango experienced a significant reduction in insulin resistance, as measured by the Homeostasis Model Assessment of Insulin Resistance (HOMA-IR). Beta cell function—the pancreas’ ability to produce and release insulin to maintain normal glucose levels—also improved significantly, as measured by the Disposition Index (DI), a key indicator of how effectively the body regulates blood sugar levels.
After four weeks, participants in the mango group showed a significant reduction in insulin concentrations in response to an oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT) compared to baseline, while no changes were observed in the control group.
