Natural Compounds in Mango Peel Curb Obesity

ST. LUCIA, AustraliaTwo common mango varieties contain natural compounds that may help to fight against obesity, according to a new study published online in the journal Chemistry World. The findings suggest the mango peel itself demonstrates the biggest fat-reducing potential.

Researchers from The University of Queensland conducted a detailed analysis of three mango varieties as part of a collaborative research project between the Queensland Alliance for Agriculture and Food Innovation (QAAFI) and UQ School of Pharmacy as part of an Australian Research Council Linkage Projects grant with the Queensland Government.

We know mangoes have many excellent nutritional properties, but more work needs to done to understand the complex natural compounds found in these and other fruits," said lead author Professor Mike Gidley, heads of the QAAFI's Centre for Nutrition and Food Sciences. This research reminds us that we should be looking at the whole fruit when considering how to take advantage of natural goodness. Detailed chemical analysis of the skin and flesh is extremely valuable for mango growers and processors, who are always looking for new ways to value-add their fruit."

In laboratory models, the study found that the peel from Irwin" and Nam Doc Mai" mangoes contained high concentrations of bioactives that inhibit development of human fat cells. The researchers said a complex interplay of bioactive compounds unique to each peel extract is likely responsible for the difference, rather than just a single component.