Dieters have long sworn
that grapefruit and even pineapple can magically help people lose weight.
Now scientists have
added another fruit to the mix, claiming mangoes may also help to stop obesity
and type 2 diabetes, new research claims.
The superfood was found
to boost gut bacteria which can ward off the conditions.The study found eating
the fruit can prevent the loss of beneficial gut bacteria which can be caused
by a high-fat diet.
The research, published in the Journal of Nutrition, was commissioned by the
National Mango Board which promotes consumption of the fruit in the US.
It adds to a growing
body of evidence the tropical fruit, which is native to southern Asia, has
various health-boosting properties. Previous studies have
found compounds in mango exhibit anti-inflammatory activities with its high
fibre-content aiding digestion.
One cup of mango is
bursting with antioxidants and over 20 different vitamins and minerals and
provides a good source of fibre. But the effects of
mango on the gut microbiota have not previously been
investigated. Further research is
necessary to see if these study results can be replicated in humans,
researchers said. (Source: www.dailymail.co.uk )