HIGHLY NUTRITIOUS
The vitamins and minerals in mangosteen are important for maintaining many bodily functions, including DNA production, muscle contraction, wound healing, immunity, and nerve signaling
Fiber: 3.5 grams
Fat: 1 gram
Protein: 1 gram
Vitamin C: 9% of the Reference Daily Intake (RDI)
Vitamin B9 (folate): 15% of the RDI
Vitamin B1 (thiamine): 7% of the RDI
Vitamin B2 (riboflavin): 6% of the RDI
Manganese: 10% of the RDI
Copper: 7% of the RDI
Magnesium: 6% of the RDI
RICH IN POWERFUL ANTIOXIDANTS
Perhaps one of mangosteen’s most significant attributes is its unique antioxidant profile.
Mangosteen contains several nutrients with antioxidant capacity, such as vitamin C and folate. Plus, it provides xanthones — a unique type of plant compound known to have strong antioxidant properties
In several studies, the antioxidant activity of xanthones has resulted in anti-inflammatory, anticancer, anti-aging, and antidiabetic effects.
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28842267/
Thus, xanthones in mangosteen may be responsible for many of its potential health benefits. Still, more human research is needed before definitive conclusions can be drawn.
MAY HAVE ANTI-INFLAMATORY PROPERTIES
The xanthones found in mangosteen may play a role in reducing inflammation.
Test-tube and animal studies suggest that xanthones have an anti-inflammatory effect and may reduce your risk of inflammatory diseases, such as cancer, heart disease, and diabetes.
Mangosteen is also rich in fiber, which offers various benefits. For instance, some animal research indicates that a higher-fiber diet may help reduce your body’s inflammatory response.
MAY HAVE ANTI-CANCER EFFECT
Population studies show that diets rich in vegetables and fruits like mangosteen are associated with reduced incidences of cancer.
Specific plant compounds in mangosteen — including xanthones — have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects, which may help fight the development and spread of cancerous cells.
Multiple test-tube studies reveal that xanthones can inhibit cancer cell growth, including in breast, stomach, and lung tissue.
Similarly, a small number of studies observed that this compound may slow the progression of colon and breast cancer in mice.
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/21902651/
MAY PROMOTE WEIGHT LOSS
In the health and wellness industry, one of mangosteen’s biggest claims to fame is its potential to aid weight loss.
One study found that mice on a high-fat diet who received supplemental doses of mangosteen gained significantly less weight than mice in the control group. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/26452017/
Similarly, in a small, 8-week study, people who supplemented their diets with 3, 6 or 9 ounces (90, 180, or 270 ml) of mangosteen juice twice daily tended to have a lower body mass index (BMI) than the control group. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/19843321/
SUPPORT BLOOD SUGAR CONTROL
Both test-tube and animal studies show that xanthone compounds in mangosteen may help you maintain healthy blood sugar levels. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28656594/
A recent 26-week study in obese women found that those receiving 400 mg of supplemental mangosteen extract daily had significant reductions in insulin resistance — a risk factor for diabetes — compared to the control group. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29747432/
The fruit is also a good source of fiber, a nutrient that can help stabilize blood sugar and improve diabetes control. The combination of the xanthone and fiber contents in mangosteen may help balance blood sugar.
PROMOTES A HEALTHY IMMUNE SYSTEM
Fiber and vitamin C — both of which can be found in mangosteen — are important for a healthy immune system. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30487459/
Fiber supports your healthy gut bacteria — an essential component of immunity. On the other hand, vitamin C is needed for the function of various immune cells and has antioxidant properties. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/19263912/,
Additionally, some research suggests that certain plant compounds in mangosteen may have antibacterial properties — which could benefit your immune health by combating potentially harmful bacteria. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/25229510/.
Your immune system requires many different nutrients to function optimally. Mangosteen may be a healthy choice to include alongside other nutrient-dense foods as part of a balanced diet.