Mango And Diarrhea: Does Eating Mangoes Cause Diarrhea?

Mangoes are one of the most popular fruits worldwide, known for their sweet, tropical taste and smooth, creamy texture. However, some people report experiencing diarrhea after eating mangoes. So what’s the deal – can mangoes really cause diarrhea?

How Mangoes May Contribute to Diarrhea

There are a few reasons why mangoes might contribute to diarrhea in some people:

1. High Fiber Content

Mangoes are high in fiber, containing about 2-3 grams of fiber per 100 grams. While fiber is healthy for digestion, suddenly increasing your fiber intake can lead to bloating, gas, and loose stools in some individuals as the digestive system adjusts.

2. Fructose Malabsorption

Mangoes contain the natural sugar fructose. Some people are sensitive to fructose and unable to properly absorb it, leading to osmotic diarrhea when they consume high amounts. This condition is known as fructose malabsorption.

3. Contamination

Like other fresh produce, mangoes may become contaminated with bacteria, viruses, or parasites from unsafe handling practices, leading to infectious diarrhea. Proper washing and preparation of mangoes can help minimize this risk.

4. Individual Sensitivity

Some people may have a personal sensitivity or allergy to mangoes that triggers diarrhea symptoms after eating them. An allergy test can determine if a mango allergy is present.

Other Factors That Contribute to Diarrhea

While mangoes can certainly cause diarrhea in some cases, there are other factors that may also be at play:

5. Underlying Digestive Issues

People with conditions like IBS, IBD, or lactose intolerance may experience diarrhea after eating mangoes due to an exacerbation of their existing condition.

6. Other Dietary Components

Something else in the meal, like dairy, spices, fat, or other produce, could be the culprit behind diarrhea, rather than the mango itself.

7. Overeating

Consuming too much of any food, including mangoes, can overwhelm the digestive system and lead to diarrhea. Moderation is key.

Tips to Prevent Mango-Related Diarrhea

If you experience diarrhea after eating mangoes, there are some precautions you can take:

1. Start with Smaller Portions

Gradually introduce mangoes to allow your body to adjust to the dose of fiber. Steadily increase mango intake as tolerated.

2. Limit Fiber from Other Sources

Reduce high-fiber foods for the rest of the meal to prevent overloading your system.

3. Look for Ripe, Unblemished Mangoes

Riper mangoes contain less acid and may be better tolerated. Inspect mangoes for damage and signs of spoilage.

4. Peel and Cut Properly

Thoroughly wash mangoes. Use a clean knife and cutting board to avoid cross-contamination.

The Bottom Line

For most people, mangoes are a nutritious food that can be enjoyed in moderation as part of a healthy, balanced diet. But some individuals seem prone to developing diarrhea after eating mangoes due to individual intolerances. Paying attention to serving sizes, food combinations, ripeness, and proper storage and handling can help minimize unwanted symptoms. Those with chronic digestive conditions should take especial care introducing mangoes. By applying some caution and care in mango consumption, most people don’t have to miss out on these tasty tropical treats.

While mangoes are a delicious and healthy fruit, they do contain compounds like fiber and fructose that may provoke diarrhea in susceptible individuals or when overconsumed. Practicing moderation, choosing ripe mangoes, proper handling, and gradually introducing mangoes can help prevent adverse reactions.