Limited evidence suggests that introducing mangoes into the diet may help reduce constipation. As mangoes contain a good amount of dietary fiber, they may help encourage bowel movements.
Constipation is when a person has difficulty passing stool. This may result in pain, bloating, and other symptoms.
Treatment of constipation often involves lifestyle changes, such as adjusting the diet and increasing physical activity. Over-the-counter and prescription medications can also help a person pass stool.
This article reviews how mangoes may help reduce constipation, the possible downsides of consuming mangoes, other helpful fruits, and other constipation remedies. It also answers some frequently asked questions.
A common cause or risk factor for constipation is a lack of dietary fiber.
Mangoes contain a good amount of dietary fiber. One fruit weighing about
In a
The researchers found that those who ate the mango had better treatment outcomes and adherence than those who consumed an equivalent amount of psyllium fiber supplements, suggesting that mango may be more effective.
Mangoes also contain polyphenols that may have an anti-inflammatory effect inside the colon.
However, the study only involved 37 people. More research is needed to determine whether mango reliably improves constipation in a larger population.
While mangoes may help treat constipation, some people will need to use caution when consuming them.
Mangoes contain high amounts of natural sugars, including glucose, fructose, and sucrose, with
Some people also have difficulty digesting fructose, which mangoes contain. In these cases, mangoes may cause more bloating, gas, or constipation, rather than less.
Dried mango may contain higher levels of sugar, and manufacturers often preserve canned mango in syrups. When buying mangoes, look for fresh or frozen mangoes, or canned mangoes in juice if other options are unavailable.
All whole fruits contain fiber, but some appear to have more of a benefit for constipation than others. A 2025 review notes that the following fruits also have evidence to show they can alleviate constipation:
- kiwi
- prunes, which are dried plums
- figs
Other fruits
The United Kingdom’s National Health Service (NHS) says that some simple changes can help with constipation in a matter of days. They suggest:
- exercising regularly
- drinking more water
- avoiding alcohol
- gradually increasing fiber intake either through diet or dietary supplements
- not delaying bowel movements, if possible
If diet or lifestyle changes do not help, a person can ask a pharmacist for over-the-counter products that may help, such as:
- laxatives
- stool softeners
- fiber supplements
People should only use laxatives as a short-term measure.
If routine care does not help with constipation, or it keeps coming back, it is important to speak with a doctor, particularly if a person also experiences:
- blood in the stool
- consistent bloating or fullness in the abdomen
- an urge to have a bowel movement when there is no need
- pain
- unexplained weight loss
Seek emergency help if a person has signs of a bowel obstruction, such as:
- an inability to pass gas
- severe pain or cramping
- nausea
- vomiting
Below are answers to some commonly asked questions about mangoes and constipation.
No studies look specifically at using mangoes to treat constipation in children. However, mangoes are generally safe to eat, so as long as a child can eat solid foods and does not have a medical reason to avoid them, they may be able to try mango.
Some people refer to mangoes as the “king of fruits” for constipation, but other options with a reputation for easing constipation include prunes and kiwi.
Mangoes provide a large amount of fiber, which may help with constipation. However, there is not much evidence that they reliably work for everyone.
Other strategies people can use to relieve constipation include drinking more water, increasing overall fiber intake, and exercising. If this does not work, there are over-the-counter products that may help.
If constipation persists despite home remedies, it is important to speak with a doctor.