13 Health Benefits of Mangosteen and What It Can Treat

Mangosteen is a purple fruit that looks like a small round or oval-shaped grape. The health benefits of mangosteen include that it is rich in nutrients, fiber, antioxidants, and other healthy substances.

Southeast Asia and typically grows in tropical climates. The fruit is often used in traditional medicine for its purported health benefits.

Mangosteen is rich in antioxidants and vitamins, which are thought to boost immunity, fight inflammation, and protect against diseases like cancer. The fruit is also a good source of fiber and has been shown to provide some other health benefits, such as improved gut health and lower blood sugar levels.

1. Low in calories

Mangosteen is low in calories and fat, making it a good fruit for people trying to lose or maintain weight. Despite being low in calories, the fruit contains many essential nutrients, such as proteins, manganese, copper, magnesium, and fiber.

2. Highly nutritious

One cup (196 grams) of mangosteen contains 143 calories. It has the following nutrients:

• 35 grams of carbs
• 3.5 grams of fiber
• 1.14 grams of fat
• 0.804 grams of protein
• 23.5 milligrams of calcium 
• 0.2 milligrams of manganese 
• 5.68 milligrams of Vitamin C
• 25.5 milligrams of magnesium 

These minerals and vitamins are essential for maintaining your health. For example, Vitamin C is an antioxidant that can help protect your cells from damage, while B vitamins are necessary for energy metabolism.

3. Rich in fiber

Fiber helps regulate bowel movements and keeps you feeling full after eating. It's also beneficial for heart health, as it can help lower cholesterol levels.

One cup of mangosteen contains 3.5 grams of fiber. Since most people's diets lack fiber, eating mangosteen can be an excellent way to increase your intake.

4. Rich in antioxidants

Antioxidants are compounds that can prevent or slow cell damage by neutralizing free radicals in the body. Free radicals are molecules with an uneven number of electrons and can damage cells, causing inflammation.

The body makes some antioxidants, and others are found in foods. Vitamin C, vitamin E, and folate are examples of antioxidants. Mangosteen contains folate and Vitamin C, two essential antioxidants.

The fruit also contains xanthones. These antioxidant plant compounds have been linked to various health benefits, such as reduced inflammation and boosting heart health, and are believed to fight cancer cells.

5. Has anti-inflammatory properties

Inflammation harms the body by causing damage to tissues and organs. Excess inflammation can lead to chronic diseases such as heart conditions, arthritis, and diabetes.

Animal studies reveal that xanthones have anti-inflammatory properties. They can also help reduce the risk of diabetes, cancer, and heart problems. Since mangosteen contains xanthone compounds, this fruit may provide some of the same benefits.

6. May help in weight loss

Although the research is limited, there are some claims that mangosteen can help with weight loss. For example, one study showed that mice given mangosteen extract gained less weight than the control group when given a high-fat diet.

However, more human studies are required to confirm these findings.

7. May have cancer-fighting properties

The xanthones in mangosteen may offer some cancer-prevention benefits. Many test-tube studies have shown that xanthones inhibit the growth of cancer cells in the lung, stomach, and breast tissue.

Population studies have also revealed that people who eat diets rich in fruits and vegetables containing xanthones are at a lower risk of cancer. While the results seem promising, future human research will determine if mangosteen can be used as a cancer-fighting agent.

8. Improve gut health 

Our gut bacteria are responsible for much more than we give them credit for. These little guys greatly influence our overall health, mood, and energy levels.

Since mangosteen is rich in fiber, it can promote the growth of healthy gut bacteria. Likewise, some studies show that mangosteen has antibacterial compounds that can kill off harmful bacteria in the gut.

Mangosteen may also improve gut health by reducing inflammation. Inflammation is a common gut issue caused by various factors, including a poor diet, stress, and certain infections.

Mangosteen's properties may help reduce inflammation and improve gut health.

9. Boost immune system functioning

A 30-day study revealed 59 participants who took a mangosteen supplement had more healthy immune cells than the other group who took a placebo.

Our immune system requires multiple nutrients to function properly. Mangosteen contains various immune-boosting nutrients. These include Vitamin Bs, Vitamin C, and minerals.

10. May regulate blood sugar levels

Irregular blood sugar levels can lead to serious health problems like diabetes. Mangosteen may help regulate blood sugar levels and prevent these complications.

A 26-week study showed that obese women taking 400 milligrams of mangosteen supplement had reduced insulin resistance (a diabetes risk factor) than the control group that did not take the supplemental mangosteen. The effect is likely due to the presence of fiber and xanthones in mangosteen.

These nutrients have been shown to improve blood sugar control and stabilize sugar levels.

11. May improve skin health 

Skin health is vital for maintaining a youthful appearance and preventing severe skin problems. A study showed that mice administered supplemental mangosteen exhibited a protective effect against UVB (ultraviolet-B) radiations. UVB rays are the leading cause of sunburn and are also linked to skin cancer.

The anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties of mangosteen are likely responsible for its skin-protective effects.

12. May improve digestive health

Since mangosteen is rich in fiber, it may promote regularity and help prevent constipation. In addition, the prebiotic effects of mangosteen fiber could also enhance gut health by promoting the growth of beneficial bacteria.

13. May improve brain health

Cognitive decline becomes a major concern as you age. Some research suggests that mangosteen supplements may help keep your mind sharp as you age by reducing inflammation and oxidative stress in the brain.

Animal studies show that mangosteen extract helps decrease inflammation in the brain and prevent mental decline. 

While many test tube and animal studies show the benefits of mangosteen, there are very few studies on humans. Future research in this area will likely provide more information on the potential health benefits of mangosteen.