Can Daily Mango Consumption Help Manage Type 2 Diabetes? Study Finds Out - Video

Fresh mangoes may offer more than just a sweet treat-they could also help manage blood sugar and reduce the risk of type 2 diabetes, according to a new study published in the Journal of Diabetes and Metabolic Disorders. The 8-week randomized controlled trial, conducted by Fortis C-DOC Hospital and the National Diabetes, Obesity, and Cholesterol Foundation (N-DOC), explored the impact of daily mango consumption on glycaemic control in adults with type 2 diabetes.

A total of 35 participants with T2D were enrolled and randomly divided into three groups: Safeda mango group (n = 10), Dasheri mango group (n=10) and a control group (n=15). The trial involved participants consuming 250 grams of Safeda or Dasheri mango each morning with breakfast, while a control group consumed an equal calorie amount of white bread.

Researchers found that those in the mango group experienced significantly better blood sugar control, including improved fasting glucose levels and enhanced insulin sensitivity. Reductions in HbA1c levels — a key marker for long-term glucose regulation — were also noted. The study highlighted the lower glycaemic index of mango (70–75) compared to white bread, reinforcing mango's potential as a diabetes-friendly fruit when consumed mindfully. Waist circumference showed a significant reduction in mango groups compared to bread group. High-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C) increased significantly in both mango groups.

Despite their natural sugar content, mangoes are rich in fibre, antioxidants like mangiferin, and essential vitamins A, C, and E. These nutrients support heart, gut, and metabolic health, aiding digestion, lowering cholesterol, boosting immunity, and reducing oxidative stress. Mangoes also help regulate blood pressure, triglycerides, and improve nutrient absorption.

However, experts caution against overconsumption. While mango offers many nutritional benefits, it should not be viewed as a cure for diabetes, the study authors stressed. Eating mango in moderation — paired with protein or healthy fats and not on an empty stomach — can help minimize blood sugar spikes. Whole, fresh mangoes are preferred over processed forms, which often lack fibre and contain added sugars.

To summarise, regular consumption of Safeda and Dasheri mangoes instead of bread in breakfast, in a measured and controlled manner as a part of calorie restrictive diet, improved glycemic control, weight, waist circumference, insulin sensitivity and HDL-C in T2D subjects.

Reference: Kehar S, Bhatt SP, Pandey RM, Ansari IA, Gupta V, Misra A. Glycemic, lipid, anthropometric and body composition responses to two Mango varieties versus white bread in people with type 2 diabetes: an 8-week randomised controlled trial. J Diabetes Metab Disord. 2025 Aug 2;24(2):183. doi: 10.1007/s40200-025-01690-w. PMID: 40761695; PMCID: PMC12317951.