Tangerines Nutrition

Tangerine is a type of Mandarin orange and is a member of the citrus family. To find out tangerines nutritional information and health benefits, read on.

Tangerines are a variety of Mandarin orange, or Citrus reticulata, and both look almost same, with the exception that tangerines are more orange in color. Tangerines are smaller than oranges, but their taste is less sour than that of oranges. Tangerines also have a loose peel and are quite juicy. Like any other citrus fruits, tangerines too, are loaded with vitamin C, along with many other nutrients. All these have made tangerines nutritious and delectable fruits to have around. Below, here, are some important tangerines nutrition facts.

Tangerines Nutritional Value

Like oranges, tangerines are one of the most significant sources of vitamin C. However, it is not the only nutrient found in these tasty fruits. Tangerines also contain many other nutrients, out of which the most important ones are, vitamin A, vitamin B, vitamin E, folic acid, carotenes, calcium, potassium, magnesium and phosphorus. About 100 g of tangerine can provide 53 calories, and contain about 13 g carbohydrates, 1 g proteins and 2 g dietary fiber. This citrus fruit contains co cholesterol and fats. In addition to these, the same quantity of tangerine can provide about 681 IU vitamin A, 26.7 mg vitamin C, 0.2 mg vitamin E, 16 mcg folate, 0.058 mfg thiamine, 0.037 mg niacin, 0.078 mg vitamin B6, 37 mg calcium, 166 mg potassium, 12 mg magnesium, 20 mg phosphorus, 0.15 mg iron and small amounts of zinc, copper and selenium. Find out more about tangerine calories.

Tangerines Nutritional Benefits

The nutritional profile and health benefits of tangerines are very similar to oranges. Like oranges, they can offer a number of health benefits, which are enlisted below

Tangerines are an excellent source of vitamin C, which is a potent antioxidant. Being an antioxidant, vitamin C can neutralize the free radicals, and prevent them from causing oxidative damage to the body cells and tissues. Cellular damage caused by the free radicals are associated with many health conditions including, cancer.

By neutralizing the free radicals, vitamin C can prevent oxidation of cholesterol. Free radicals are known to oxidize cholesterol, which then stick to the arterial wall and form plaques.

Tangerines can boost the immune system, and its ability to fight infectious agents. This in turn, can help you to lead a healthy life.

Tangerines contain a flavonoid, known as 'hesperidin', which has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. Studies have found that hesperidin can be beneficial for lowering cholesterol and blood pressure as well. This flavonoid can be found in higher concentration in the inner part of the skin or peel.

Tangerines are also a good source of fiber, which can prevent constipation by ensuring proper bowel movements. Fiber can also lower the level of cholesterol and help to regulate the blood sugar level.

Tangerines with their vitamin C and fiber content can prove immensely helpful for heart health. Both vitamin C and fiber can be helpful for reducing the risk for developing cardiovascular and heart disease.

Tangerines and tangerine juice can be very effective for lowering the risk of cancer, especially colon cancer.

The essential oil extracted from the peel of tangerine has anti spasmodic properties. It can help to control or relax the spasms of the muscles, digestive system, respiratory system and the nervous system, and thus prove beneficial in conditions like, diarrhea, asthma, cough and convulsions.

Tangerine can purify the blood by removing any kind of impurities and unwanted substances like, uric acid and pollutants.

These are some of the most important facts about tangerines nutrition and health benefits. Including tangerine in your diet can be an effective way to lead a healthy life, by keeping diseases at bay. Moreover, you can enjoy this fruit in several ways. It can be consumed raw, or as tangerine juice. You can also use them in salads, desserts and to add flavor to dishes. The most popular varieties available for this purpose are, honey tangerine, Fairchild tangerines, Dancy tangerines and sunburst tangerines.