Mango

What is a Mango?

• Mango fruit has a high nutritional value with a sweet taste and attractive scent. Studies suggest that some of its components are anti-inflammatory and work wonders for the gut.

• The mango is composed of three parts; the pulp (most commonly eaten), the kernel (seed) and the skin [2].

• Due to the different types of mangos, the sensory characteristics can change. Some of the changes can occur in the skin color, aroma, sweetness, size, shape and weight [4]. 

• Mango polyphenols are really good for the intestinal health leading to a happier, healthier gut and thus maybe a happier, healthier mind which will have a positive impact on behaviors [4]. 

• Mangos are rich in antioxidants, and the variation of mango will impact the particular antioxidant it contains. For example, yellow mangos have a higher carotenoid content compared to the red mangos which have a higher anthocyanin content [4].
  

Nutrient Breakdown

Mango is a great source of:

• Vitamin A

• Vitamin C

• Vitamin E

• Antioxidants

• Polyphenols

• Fiber

• Calcium

• Iron

• Phosphorus

• Magnesium

• Potassium

• Folate
  

Foods Containing Mango

• Smoothies/Juices

• Yogurts

• Desserts- cheesecake, pie, mango rice, cake

• Salsa or mango chutney

• Fruit salads

• Dried mango

• Ice-cream/sorbets

• Mango curries

• Jams/Purees/Nectar

• Baby food [2]
  

Mango Alternatives

If your child doesn’t like mango yet or they are sensitive to them, here are some alternatives that are similar in nutritional value:

• Melon

• Papaya

• Peach

• Nectarine

• Apricot

• Pineapple

• Kiwi
  

Food Reactions

The body can respond to foods in many different ways including food allergies, food sensitivities, or food intolerances. If you suspect a food reaction, you can either choose to avoid the food or seek food reaction testing. Click here more information on the difference in types of food reactions and testing options. 

DISCLAIMER: Always consult with your pediatrician and/or your Registered Dietitian to help you test for a food reaction or to aid you in making individualized dietary changes.

Mango & Autism in the Research

Although there is not any research on mango and autism, mango is on the ‘Optimal Food List for Autism’[1]. However, there is research on the nutrients found in mango and how they have different effects on the body. I’ll take you through these now.

Mango and Vitamin A

• Vitamin A is found in mango and this particular vitamin helps with normal growth and development [2].

• Vitamin A is also an antioxidant which helps keep the bad germs away, helping to create a good balance of good vs bad bacteria in the gut. This is a great thing for children on the spectrum. A happy gut may lead to a happy mind which may help with behaviors [2.]

• Vitamin A is also great for the immune system. 

• Please see the link below on the vitamin A note from the Autism Nutrition Library if you would like some more information on this vitamin - Vitamin A Note.

Mango and Leucine

• Mangos also contain leucine. Leucine is an essential amino acid which aids energy production and neurotransmitter balance [3]. Neurotransmitters are the signals which get sent to and from the brain.

Mango and Polyphenols/Prebiotics

• Mango contains a high quantity of fiber and polyphenols (specifically, gallic acid & gallotannins). Studies have shown that the polyphenols and the fiber contribute to reducing intestinal inflammation by increasing the beneficial bacteria. They also improve intestinal integrity [4].  

• Due to the polyphenols and anti-inflammatory effects in mango, the absorption of food is regulated and prompts regular bowel movements [4].

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• References

  Description text goes here[1] The Elemy Learning Studio. 2022. The Optimal Food List for Autism (& What to Avoid). [online] Available at: <https://www.elemy.com/studio/autism-and-diet/food-list/> [Accessed 15 August 2022].

  [2] Lebaka VR, Wee YJ, Ye W, Korivi M. Nutritional Composition and Bioactive Compounds in Three Different Parts of Mango Fruit. Int J Environ Res Public Health. 2021 Jan 16;18(2):741. doi: 10.3390/ijerph18020741. PMID: 33467139; PMCID: PMC7830918.

  [3] Thomas M. Maynard, M. Chiara Manzini, Balancing Act: Maintaining Amino Acid Levels in the Autistic Brain,Neuron, Volume 93, Issue 3, 2017, Pages 476-479, ISSN 0896-6273, <https://doi.org/10.1016/j.neuron.2017.01.015/> [Assessed 15 August 2022].

  [4] Kim H, Castellon-Chicas MJ, Arbizu S, Talcott ST, Drury NL, Smith S, Mertens-Talcott SU. Mango (Mangifera indica L.) Polyphenols: Anti-Inflammatory Intestinal Microbial Health Benefits, and Associated Mechanisms of Actions. Molecules. 2021 May 6;26(9):2732. doi: 10.3390/molecules26092732. PMID: 34066494; PMCID: PMC8124428.

Author

Brittyn Coleman, MS, RDN/LD, CLT