How To Eat Mangosteen? 6 Health Benefits Of Eating Mangosteen

How to eat mangosteen? Mangosteen is a tiny purple fruit that grows in Southeast Asia. In recent years, news reports and internet influencers have touted it for having a variety of health advantages. It has gained its reputation as a “superfood.”

This article will explain what a mangosteen is, look at the scientific evidence behind its health advantages, and show you how to consume it.

What is Mangosteen?

Mangosteen is a tropical evergreen tree that can reach up to 30 feet in height. Native to Southeast Asia, the mangosteens look like large wrinkled peaches and have a thick brown rind and white flesh inside.

The fruit has been around for centuries in Southeast Asian countries such as Thailand, Indonesia, Malaysia, and Singapore. It has only recently gained commercial popularity in the United States and Europe, where it is sold at grocery stores and online retailers.

Mangosteen has a unique taste. Descriptions liken it to apricot or peach combined with citrus fruits like orange or grapefruit, sour apples, pineapples, turpentine, and even menthol. Many people describe it as “deliciously unique.”

Health Benefits of Eating Mangosteen

Mangosteen is often marketed as a “superfood.” In recent years, it has been discussed in the media and on social networks for having a wide variety of health advantages.

Contains Antioxidants

One of the main reasons mangosteen is considered healthy is that it contains antioxidants. Antioxidants are natural chemicals found in plants that help protect them from damage caused by harmful substances known as free radicals, which cause aging and illnesses such as cancer.

Scientists believe that by eating antioxidant-rich foods, you can reduce your risk of illness and improve your overall health.

Anti-inflammatory Agents

Mangosteen contains several anti-inflammatory agents, such as xanthones and proanthocyanidins. These chemicals help reduce swelling and pain caused by conditions like arthritis, gout, and skin disorders such as psoriasis and eczema.

According to the research, these compounds may also help fight some diseases caused by inflammation, such as heart disease.

Weight Loss Benefits

Some mangosteen products are marketed for weight loss and reducing body fat. The research is limited on this topic, but some studies suggest that antioxidants may help increase metabolic rate and burn more calories than usual.

Mangosteen has also been anecdotally linked to improved digestion and reduced appetite, which may also contribute to weight loss.

Blood Sugar Control

Several studies show mangosteen may help control blood sugar levels. Scientists speculate that this is because mangosteen contains several anti-diabetic compounds.

However, further research is needed to determine how much of an effect the fruit has. Some preliminary studies indicate that mangosteen powder or juice may reduce fasting glucose levels and improve insulin sensitivity in people with type 2 diabetes.

Skin Benefits

Because mangosteen contains anti-inflammatory agents, it may help reduce swelling and redness caused by skin disorders like psoriasis, acne, and dermatitis. Research on this topic is limited, but one small study found that an extract of the fruit significantly reduced symptoms in people with psoriasis.

Healthy Immune System

The fruit is also high in powerful antioxidants that may fight inflammation and free radicals, both of which contribute to aging and illness. Preliminary studies suggest that mangosteen can boost your immune system, but further research is needed.

How to Eat Mangosteen?

Mangosteen is quite simple to prepare and eat, however, it may be difficult to come by depending on your location. The fruit’s season is limited, which means that it is occasionally unavailable.

Mangosteen is best found at specialty Asian shops, but be aware that fresh mangosteen may be pricey. Frozen or canned versions may be less expensive and easier to come by, although canned ones are frequently high in sugar.

The fruit is also available in liquid or powdered form. Choose fruits with a smooth, dark purple outer rind if you can get your hands on some fresh ones. The rind is inedible but may be cut away using a serrated knife.

When fully ripe, the inside meat is white and highly juicy. This portion of the fruit may be eaten raw or used in smoothies and tropical fruit salads for a tasty addition of flavor.

Does Eating Mangosteen Have Side Effects?

Mangosteen is considered safe to eat for most adults. However, because it contains a mild laxative called sennoside, it should not be consumed in large amounts. Some people may also experience mild side effects such as headache and nausea if they eat mangosteen with too much sugar.

If you are allergic to mangosteen, it may trigger an allergic reaction (contact dermatitis). People who have hay fever or pollen allergies may find that mangosteen can trigger or worsen their symptoms. Mangosteen extract supplements may contain fillers or other ingredients that could cause unpleasant side effects, so it is best to use the fruit itself.

You can also read: What If There Are Brown Spots On Steak? – The Health Risks.

Does Eating Mangosteen Have Any Interactions?

There are no known serious interactions associated with mangosteen. However, if you are taking prescription medications for diabetes, diuretics, blood pressure, or cholesterol issues, be sure to speak with your doctor before adding mangosteen to your diet. The fruit may alter blood sugar levels or the effects of other medications.

Pregnant or breastfeeding women should also speak with their doctor before consuming mangosteen, as the fruit contains a mild uterine stimulant called sennosides.

Eating mangosteen in moderate amounts is considered safe for most people. While the fruit is high in antioxidants, it may be wise to stick with one or two servings per day due to its laxative properties.

Final Thoughts

Mangosteen is one of the most delicious tropical fruits available. Native to Southeast Asia, it is also high in antioxidants and other nutrients that may promote health. However, because the fruit’s season is limited, enjoying mangosteen may be cost-prohibitive for some people. Fortunately, frozen or canned versions are easier to come by.

Mangosteen is also found in powdered or liquid extract form. Fresh mangosteens may be difficult to find, so look for frozen or canned versions instead. The fruit itself can be eaten raw as a delicious snack on its own.

Although more research is needed, preliminary studies suggest that this tasty fruit may have a wide range of health benefits. These include improved immune system function and reduced inflammation, as well as potential benefits for the heart, skin, and aging process.

If you are looking for a tasty tropical fruit that is high in antioxidants and other nutrients, mangosteen may be right for you!