As summer rolls into India, the iconic mango—often dubbed the "king of fruits"—sparks heated debates among diabetics. Many are uncertain about whether they can still enjoy this sweet treat without jeopardizing their health. Dr. Rahul Baxi, a prominent diabetologist, notes the confusion surrounding mango consumption, with some patients fearing they must completely avoid the fruit while others overindulge during the season.
However, new Indian clinical trials are shifting this narrative. The pilot study, soon to feature in the European Journal of Clinical Nutrition, involved 95 participants testing the effects of three popular mango varieties—Safeda, Dasheri, and Langra. Surprisingly, these mangoes produced similar or even lower blood sugar responses than traditional white bread over a two-hour glucose test period. Continuous monitoring further showed that mango-eaters experienced decreased blood sugar fluctuations post-meal.
A separate eight-week study confirmed these findings. In it, participants with type 2 diabetes who swapped out bread for 250 grams of mango at breakfast reported significant improvements in key health indicators like fasting glucose levels and insulin resistance.
Experts emphasize moderation, advising that if a patient’s daily caloric intake is 1,600, mango calories must fit within that total—not as an addition. For most diabetics, consuming about half a mango, paired with protein or fiber, is ideal. Beyond their health perks, mangoes also flourish in India’s cultural landscape, often seen as symbols of friendship and prosperity, evidenced by the practice of "mango diplomacy."
As mango festivals bring communities together, their cultural impact is undeniable, making this beloved fruit a cherished part of Indian identity—one that now boasts an intriguing new health twist thanks to scientific findings.
