Scientists at San Diego State University have found that mango consumption has a positive effect on the health of gut bacteria in overweight people. Research published in the journal Food Science and Nutrition.
Diet has a significant impact on microbial diversity and gut composition. Fiber and fresh fruit intake have been shown to increase microbial diversity, while sugary drinks and fried foods have been shown to decrease diversity. The health of the gut microbiome is associated with an increased risk of diseases from diabetes to cancer.
The new study included 27 people aged 18-55 years with a body mass index (BMI) ≥ 26 kg/m2, that is, overweight or obese. The mean weight of both groups was 94 kg.
Participants were divided into two groups: one ate mango and the other a low-fat cookie. Subjects received 100 kcal of fresh mango or low-fat biscuits for 12 weeks.
At the end of the study, the number of individual bacteria in the mango group decreased while the number of species stabilized, meaning each species was more or less equally represented in the community. The potential effects of such a change on human health should be investigated in future studies.
There were no significant differences in stool consistency, constipation, pain, or tightness between the groups.