(P11-43-26) Effect of Mango Intake on Cognition and Mental Health in Young Adults: Outcomes of a Randomized, Controlled Trial

Objectives: Bioactive compounds in fruits may influence cognitive function and mental health. This study aimed to investigate the effects of mangoes, rich in polyphenols, carotenoids, and vitamin C on cognition and mental health outcomes in young adults.

Methods: This was a 12-week, controlled, parallel design trial on university students (18-30 y). Participants randomized to the mango group consumed 1.5 cups (250 g) fresh mango daily. The control group abstained from consumption of mango and other tropical fruits. Other than mango consumption, both groups maintained their habitual diet and lifestyle. Diet was assessed using ASA-24 diet recalls at baseline, and weeks 4, 8, and 12. Assessment of mood and cognition were completed at baseline and after 12 weeks. Depression and anxiety were assessed using the Beck Depression Inventory (BDI-2) and Beck Anxiety Inventory (BAI). Cognitive test results were standardized and then compiled into composite scores for working memory (WAIS-5 Digits Forward, Digit Sequencing), processing speed (Symbol Digit Modalities Test, Pattern Comparison Processing Speed), executive function (Dimensional Change Card Sort, Flanker Test) and memory (Face-Name Associative Memory, Picture Sequence Memory, Rey Auditory Verbal Learning Test). Between-group mean changes in individual test scores and cognitive composites from baseline to 12 weeks were analyzed using analysis of covariance, adjusted for baseline scores.

Results: Fifty-three participants (mean [SD] age, 24.8 [2.2]; 32 women [60.4%]) completed the study. Both groups were similar in age and education. After adjusting for baseline there was a significant decrease (p = 0.014) in self-reported anxiety (BAI) in the mango group compared to controls from baseline to week 12. Between-group estimated marginal mean change in anxiety was -2.09 (95% CI: -3.55, -0.64) for the mango group and 0.44 (95% CI: -0.94, 1.82) in controls. There were no other significant between-group differences in depressive symptoms or cognitive performance.

Conclusions: Daily mango intake for 12 weeks resulted in a significant decrease in reported anxiety in university students aged 18-30. These results suggest that mango consumption may be an effective part of lifestyle interventions aimed at improving mental health in young adults.

Funding Sources: National Mango Board, Orlando, FL