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Losing weight is a challenge that’s all too familiar to so many. If you are currently take part in a weight-loss plan, you understand the struggle. Although nothing beats a a healthy diet and exercise, there are plenty of natural supplements that can assist your efforts, like African mango.
You know those people that can eat anything and not gain weight? Well, they more than likely have a fast metabolism. Don’t think you’re doomed if you suffer from a slow metabolism, as you can speed it up. This is where African mango comes into play because it works by boosting your metabolism.
History of African Mango
African mango, also known as bush mango, has been a staple for many tribes within Nigeria and Cameroon for years. One of the key characteristics of these tribes if their slim build and low rates of cardiovascular disease. It comes from the Irvingia gabonensis tree which is indigenous to west Africa.
There are a number of treatments which utilize the bark, kernels, leaves, and roots of this plant. The bark has been used to treat diarrhea when mixed with palm oil and for reducing the breast-feeding period. Also in areas of Africa, the stem bark is used to treat yellow fever, dysentery, hernia, and the effects of poison.
The Mende tribe in Sierra Leone uses the bark, grinding it into a paste to apply to the skin. This is a natural pain reliever which is also commonly used to treat toothaches and heal scabby skin. In certain parts of Africa, it’s also consumed to produce analgesic effects.
It wasn’t until the 1990s when scientists tapped into the key health benefits enjoyed today through supplementation. Since then, researchers have been focusing on the potent weight-loss capabilities of this fruit, aiding in metabolism, hunger, and fat burning.
How Does It Work?
The weight-loss properties of African mango have been attributed to the hormone known as leptin. This hormone plays a key role in regulating metabolism, appetite, body weight, and more. Researchers have discovered that the main functions of leptin are appetite suppression and increased calorie burning.
When individuals are overweight, they tend to have less leptin, further contributing to their weight problem. Leptin normally signals the brain when someone is full, letting them know it is time to stop eating. By aiding in the regulation of this hormone, African mango could boost weight-loss efforts.
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Uses and Related Studies
Although weight-loss is the main use for African mango in recent years, it does have other pharmacological and nutritional benefits. The seed of this fruit is packed with beta-carotene which is known to protect individuals from high blood pressure, infertility, cancer, heartburn, and mental health conditions. African mango also offers iron, B-vitamins, and calcium.
Here are a few of the key benefits regarding this fruit and supplement in general:
Diabetes
Of course, by losing weight you already reduce your risk of developing diabetes. However, there’s also been positive effects observed to balance blood sugar as well. In one study, rats were fed fiber over the course of four weeks, African mango was found to be more effective than cellulose when altering digestive enzymes to reduce the absorption of glucose.
In a similar study, fiber from this plant were shown to lower not only glucose levels in plasma but also cholesterol and triglyceride levels. This promotes more positive cardiovascular health, reducing one’s risk of heart disease or strokes.
Obesity
The African Mango has an inhibitory effect on the enzyme known as glycerol-3-phosphare dehydrogenase. This is what converts glucose into fat. It’s also believed to support the protein hormone adiponectin, enhancing insulin and leptin sensitivity. In turn, this reduces calorie intake and promotes thermogenesis.
In one study, rats were fed a normal diet and 1 mL of African mango or their normal diet and water. After four weeks, those that ate African mango experienced reduce abdominal fat, lowered cholesterol levels, and more balanced glucose readings. It’s also believed that African mango also promoted anti-inflammatory and anti-diabetic properties.
In another study, subjects took 150 mg of African mango extract twice daily. The results were significant improvements in body weight, body fat, and waist circumference. They also experienced improved heart health, lower levels of LDL cholesterol, more stable glucose levels, and more stable hormone regulation. Similar studies have shown that individuals can lose 8-10 pounds without changing their lifestyle.
Cholesterol
As mentioned in weight-loss studies, cholesterol levels were positively affected when consuming African mango. In one 2005 study, there were significant reductions in both LDL cholesterol and triglycerides. Also, good or HDL cholesterol levels improved. When analyzing the placebo group, no improvements were reported.
Possible Side Effects
When consumed in high doses, there have been some adverse effect reported. It’s important to avoid use if you have a known sensitivity or allergy to the components of African mango. The most common side effects include dry mouth, GI issues, lack of sleep, headaches, and flu-like symptoms.
When studies in rats, 1,600 mg/kg of African mango was administered. Within 24 hours to 7 days, no deaths occurred. There is currently limited information regarding interactions, which is why you should discuss usage with your doctor. This supplement may also enhance medications used for high cholesterol or diabetes so please be aware of you suffer from one of these conditions.
Recommended Dosage
In clinical studies, doses of 150 mg of African mango extract were administered 30 minutes before lunch and dinner. In some cases, this dose was 1,050 mg, three times daily before meals. You can find this supplement in liquid, capsule, or powder form.
Based on the average commercial manufacturer, a common dose if 150 mg, twice daily with food. Remember, always follow the instructions on the label of the supplement you’re personally consuming. Start with the lowest recommended dose to better understand how your body reacts.
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