Raw Mango Side Effects

Raw mangoes offer several health benefits, including improved digestion, immune system support, and antioxidant properties. However, excessive consumption can lead to various side effects, including:

Throat Irritation and Indigestion: The tartaric, malic, and citric acids in raw mangoes can irritate the throat and cause indigestion, especially when consumed in large quantities.

Allergic Reactions: Some individuals may be allergic to raw mangoes, experiencing itching, swelling, or difficulty breathing due to the presence of certain compounds that can trigger allergic reactions.

Dental Erosion: The high acid content in raw mangoes can contribute to dental erosion if consumed excessively, wearing away the enamel and increasing the risk of cavities.

Gastrointestinal Problems: Eating large amounts of raw mango may lead to gastrointestinal issues, such as bloating, gas, and stomach cramps, particularly in those with a sensitive digestive system.

Contact Dermatitis: Handling and cutting raw mangoes can cause skin irritation for some people, known as contact dermatitis, and the skin around the mouth and lips may also become inflamed if sensitive to the juice or peel.

Increases Blood Sugar Levels: Although raw mangoes have a relatively low glycemic index, consuming them in large quantities can increase blood sugar levels due to their natural sugar content, which is particularly important for people with diabetes to consider.

Risk of Pesticide Exposure: Mangoes, like many fruits, may be treated with pesticides during cultivation. Eating them without properly washing the skin, even if you don’t eat the peel, can lead to ingestion of trace amounts of pesticides.

May Trigger Allergies: Mangoes can cause allergy in people suffering from latex allergies, especially if someone is sensitive to synthetic material as mango proteins are similar to latex and may cause discomfort for people with underlying allergies.

Spike in Blood Sugar: Mangoes can instantly spike sugar levels due to the presence of high natural sugar, which can be a concern for those with diabetes or lifestyle disorders.

Low in Fiber: Several varieties of mangoes are low in fiber as the seeds and peel have the maximum amount of fiber, which is not usually consumed. Thus, eating mangoes may not help in the process of digestion.

Weight Gain: Eating too many mangoes at a time can lead to weight gain due to their low fiber, high natural sugar, and high calorie content compared to other foods.

May Cause Stomach Issues: Excessive intake of mango may lead to GI distress as it has fermentable carbohydrates, which may trigger IBS irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) and upset the digestive system.

To minimize these side effects, it is advisable to consume raw mangoes in moderation, wash them thoroughly before eating, and peel them if you have sensitive skin or are concerned about pesticide exposure. If you experience any adverse reactions after consuming raw mangoes, it may be best to limit your intake or consult with your doctor.