Meet the Mangosteen

HK BioTek Intern

When we talked about mangosteen, we will think of the catastrophic tropical cyclone Mangkhut (In Thai word) that struck Hong Kong in 2018.

Instead, mangosteen is a tropical fruit. It has been consumed as fruit, fruit juice and used as medicine. What are the benefits of taking mangosteen in diets or in supplements?

Mangosteen is relatively low in calories yet provides many essential nutrients including vitamin C, B1, B2, B9 and minerals as well. It is also a kind of powerful antioxidants. Antioxidants are compounds that can neutralize the damaging effects of potentially harmful molecules called free radicals, which are linked to various chronic diseases. Vitamin C, B9 and xanthones in mangosteen are responsible for the antioxidant function. Vitamin C is needed for the function of various immune cells and has antioxidant properties. The antioxidant activity of xanthones is also resulted in the effects of anti-inflammatory, anticancer and antiaging as well.

Skin damage from sun exposure is a common occurrence worldwide and a major contributor to skin cancer and signs of aging. Mangosteen can also help repair and maintain healthy skin.

Taking supplemental mangosteen can provide you a protective effect against ultraviolet-B (UVB) radiation in the skin.

A daily supplementation of mangosteen habits can increase the elasticity in their skin and less accumulation of a particular compound known to contribute to skin aging.

Mangosteen’s antioxidant and anti-inflammatory capacity is the main reason for these skin-protective effects. Mangosteen is also rich in fiber. Fiber supports your healthy gut bacteria — an essential component of immunity.

A suitable amount of mangosteen supplement consumption is definitely safe and provides you varieties of advantages.

References:

• https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0278691517304714