African Mango Fruit Extract
Also known as: African Mango, Bush Mango, Dika Nut, Irvingia gabonensis
Overview
African Mango, scientifically known as *Irvingia gabonensis*, is a dietary supplement derived from the seeds of a tree native to tropical Africa. It is primarily marketed for its potential benefits in weight loss and metabolic health. The fruit and seeds have a history of traditional use for various medicinal purposes. Current research focuses on its effects on body weight, cholesterol levels, and blood glucose regulation. However, it's important to note that the overall quality of evidence supporting these claims is considered low due to methodological limitations in many studies. African Mango is available in various forms, including capsules and powders, and is often taken as an adjunct to diet and exercise. While generally considered safe, more rigorous human studies are needed to fully understand its efficacy and safety profile.
Benefits
Some studies suggest that African Mango extracts may lead to statistically significant reductions in body weight and waist circumference, as well as improvements in lipid profiles and blood glucose levels. However, these findings are not consistently supported across all studies, and the evidence is often marred by methodological flaws. Potential secondary benefits include anti-diabetic, anti-inflammatory, and antimicrobial properties, though these are largely based on animal studies or traditional use. The available evidence primarily focuses on overweight and obese individuals, with limited data on other populations. While some studies report significant effects, the clinical significance is uncertain due to the low quality of evidence. Typically, observed benefits occur over short-term periods (4-10 weeks) in available studies.
How it works
The potential mechanisms of action for African Mango include altering leptin expression in adipocytes and increasing glucose uptake in muscle cells. However, these mechanisms are primarily based on *in vitro* studies and require further verification in human trials. It is believed that African Mango may affect metabolic pathways related to fat metabolism and glucose regulation. The known molecular targets include leptin and possibly insulin signaling pathways. The absorption and bioavailability of African Mango are not well-studied in humans, making it difficult to fully understand its effects on the body.
Side effects
African Mango is generally considered safe, but high-quality human toxicity studies are lacking. Common side effects reported in studies include headaches, sleep difficulties, and flatulence, although these have also been reported in placebo groups. Uncommon side effects have not been consistently reported. A rare case of renal failure was reported in a person with chronic kidney disease, but the causality is uncertain. Drug interactions are not well-studied. Caution is advised for individuals with chronic kidney disease. There is limited data on the safety of African Mango for pregnant or breastfeeding women. Due to the limited research, it is important to exercise caution and consult with a healthcare professional before using African Mango, especially if you have pre-existing health conditions or are taking medications.
Dosage
The minimum effective dose of African Mango is not well-established. The optimal dosage range typically falls between 150-3,200 mg per day, often taken with meals. The maximum safe dose is not well-defined. There are no specific timing recommendations for taking African Mango. It is available in various forms, including capsules and powders. Dietary fiber may enhance its absorption. There are no specified required cofactors for its use. Due to the limited research, it is important to adhere to recommended dosages and consult with a healthcare professional before starting supplementation.
FAQs
What are the practical usage concerns with African Mango?
Users should be cautious due to the variable quality of evidence supporting its benefits and the potential for side effects. It's important to manage expectations and consult with a healthcare provider.
Is African Mango safe for people with kidney issues?
While generally considered safe, individuals with kidney issues should consult a healthcare provider before using African Mango due to a reported case of renal failure, although causality is uncertain.
When is the best time to take African Mango?
There are no specific timing recommendations for taking African Mango. It is often taken with meals, but individual preferences may vary. Consistency in timing may help in assessing its effects.
What results can I expect from taking African Mango?
Weight loss and metabolic improvements are possible but not consistently supported by high-quality evidence. Results may vary, and it should not be considered a guaranteed weight loss solution.
Is African Mango a miracle weight loss supplement?
Overestimation of its efficacy as a weight loss aid is a common misconception due to marketing claims. It should be viewed as a potential adjunct to a healthy diet and exercise, not a standalone solution.
Research Sources
- https://examine.com/supplements/african-mango/ – Examine.com provides a general overview of African Mango, summarizing available research on its effects on weight loss, blood glucose, and lipid profiles. It highlights the mixed results and the need for more high-quality studies to confirm its efficacy and safety.
- https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/23419021/ – This systematic review and meta-analysis evaluated the efficacy of *Irvingia gabonensis* for weight loss. The review found statistically significant reductions in body weight and waist circumference, but noted methodological flaws in the included studies, suggesting caution in interpreting the results.
- https://www.cebm.ox.ac.uk/research/projects/african-bush-mango-effects-on-weight – The Centre for Evidence-Based Medicine project page discusses the effects of African Bush Mango on weight. It likely summarizes the available evidence and highlights the need for more rigorous research to determine its true efficacy.
- https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38395180/ – This comprehensive review highlights the ethnopharmacological significance and potential health benefits of African Mango. It emphasizes the need for further rigorous studies to confirm its efficacy and safety, suggesting that while promising, more research is required.
- https://www.jscimedcentral.com/public/assets/articles/publichealth-11-1130.pdf – This article likely discusses the potential health benefits of African Mango and its traditional uses. It likely emphasizes the need for further research to validate its efficacy and safety in various health conditions.
