Fruits to fight diabetes: Know the best choices for blood sugar control

And now, according to a study, there is one fruit that could help keep diabetes risk at bay. Type 2 diabetes is a lifestyle disorder, and it is largely a consequence of a poor diet and obesity. When one starts to struggle with insulin resistance, blood sugar levels continue to rise exponentially, which can be potentially deadly if left unaddressed for too long. It can also lead to damaged kidneys, feet, and eyes, and a heightened risk of suffering from a heart attack or stroke. However, according to a new study, consuming two cups of mangoes daily could help combat this.

Fruits to fight diabetes:How do mangoes lower type 2 diabetes risk?

According to a study, eating mangoes daily can improve insulin sensitivity and lower its levels in obese or overweight people. The study’s findings, published in the Nutrients journal, highlight how simple dietary changes can reduce the odds of suffering from type 2 diabetes. The study was carried out at the Illinois Institute of Technology with 48 participants aged 20 to 60. Researchers evaluated the health effects of eating fresh mangoes and sorbet-like desserts on insulin sensitivity and inflammation in overweight adults.

Researchers found that eating mangoes helped with a significant reduction in insulin resistance. Beta-cell function also improves significantly. Four weeks later, the group that was asked to eat mangoes had lower insulin levels, but the other sorbet group showed no improvement. Experts also noted that blood sugar management is not just about monitoring blood sugar but also about boosting insulin sensitivity. The study further suggests that adding fresh mangoes to the diet is a simple and enjoyable way to help overweight and obese people reduce diabetes risk.

Fruits to fight diabetes:Nutrition profile of mangoes

The nutrient profile of mangoes is dense, contrary to popular belief that the sweet fruit is largely about flavour and less about nutrition. In the study, the group of participants who had mangoes did not notice a difference in body composition; the other group reported weight gain. Although there were not many differences in inflammation or glucose levels between the two groups, therefore, mangoes are highly recommended for people willing to switch to heart-friendly snacks.

Fruits to fight diabetes:Improvement in insulin sensitivity in the group that relied on mangoes without changes in body weight helped quash misconceptions about mangoes’ association with weight gain and obesity. The study’s findings show that eating mangoes does not lead to weight gain. On the contrary, this helps improve antioxidant levels in the body, thereby supporting glucose control. This study stresses why including fruits in the diet is a must for all, even people who are overweight or struggling with obesity.