Mangos

In a 2001 study at the University of Florida indicated that mangos do in fact have the ability to fight off cancer.

Two very potent antioxidants called carotenoids and phenolic compounds found in mangos can protect cells from being damaged by free radicals. When cells are damaged they can become cancerous, said Susan Percival, a University of Florida Nutrition and Immunity Specialist.

In her study a series of cancer tests were conducted in which mouse cells were exposed to a carcinogen, a substance that is capable of causing cancer, then treated with carotenoid or phenolic compounds. Both of these antioxidants resulted in fewer cancerous cells However, the phenolic resulted in less cells developing cancer than the carotenoids.

“We can’t say these compounds from mangos are going to prevent cancer in humans because those studies haven’t been done, but what we can say about the mango is that it contains potent antioxidants, and it would be a good part of a healthy diet," Susan said. “Every American has heard the message that five servings of fruits and vegetables a day are important to one’s health, this is some more evidence that a particular fruit has cancer-fighting capabilities.”

To Your Health!

John Hall NSCA-CPT