Mangos Help Prevent Breast, Colon Cancer

COLLEGE STATION, TexasA diet rich in mangos may help prevent colon and breast cancer, according to a new study conducted by Texas AgriLife Research food scientists.

Researchers tested mango polyphenol extracts in vitro on colon, breast, lung, leukemia and prostate cancers. Although the mango created some difference against lung, leukemia and prostate cancers, it was most effective on common types of breast and colon cancers.

"Mangos are rich in fiber, nutrients and antioxidant secondary plant compounds. However the concentration of antioxidant compounds is somewhat lower compared to blueberries, acai and other so-called superfruit," said Susanne Talcott, who conducted the cancer cell research with her husband Stephen Talcott. "We identified two varieties which were more effective against cancer cells compared to the other varieties. Secondary plant compounds from mango were effective against all tested cell lines; however, the selected colon and breast cancer cells seemed most sensitive in the selected model."