It’s mango season, and every year, this eagerly anticipated seasonal fruit finds its way to the supermarket, delighting people with its juicy and delicious pulp. Mangoes are used in a variety of ways during the summer, including in smoothies, desserts, shakes, and more.
Each variety of mango has its own unique flavor and is grown in different parts of the country. Not only are they tasty, but mangoes also offer essential vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants that help hydrate the body and protect against diseases during the hot months. However, as much as we love this incredible fruit, excessive consumption can have harmful effects on the body and even cause stomach infections. Doctors and health experts warn that overeating mangoes can lead to bloating, diarrhea, abdominal pain, ulcers, and indigestion.
“Mangoes are rich in phytonutrients that are important for the body. They are healthy, but due to the use of pesticides and artificial ripening processes, they should be consumed only after being soaked in water for at least 2 hours. Wash the mangoes thoroughly before consumption,” advises Dr. Edwina Raj, Head of Clinical Nutrition Dietetics at Aster CMI Hospital, Bengaluru, as reported by IndiaToday.in.
While mangoes are packed with nutrients and essential vitamins, they also contain carbohydrates, specifically fructose, which can cause a spike in blood sugar levels.
“The issue lies in how mangoes are handled. This can have an impact on health. Many people are allergic to mangoes, which can result in inflammation in their throat. It’s not that everyone can digest them properly,” explains Dr. Edwina Raj. Additionally, artificial ripening methods and the use of pesticides can disrupt blood glucose and triglyceride levels. Therefore, while mangoes are healthy, they should be consumed in moderation.
How many mangoes can one have in a day?
“It is better to have half a mango split into two portions and consume them at different times of the day rather than eating one whole mango in a single sitting. It’s preferable to treat it as a snack rather than having it with a meal. Since mangoes are rich in fructose, they can cause a spike in blood sugar levels,” advises Dr. Raj. If you have consumed too many mangoes and experience a negative reaction, it is advisable to consult a doctor or healthcare professional immediately. Including more probiotic foods like yogurt and buttermilk in your diet, staying hydrated, and limiting high-fiber foods and fruits are recommended to ease symptoms of diarrhea and stomach infections.
