Tangerine, Satsuma, or 'Ponkan' - Source of Vitamin C and Antioxidants

With its orange peel and pulp, this Asian-originated fruit is not only delicious but also considered highly nutritious and, therefore, very beneficial for overall health. Among its nutrients, we can find vitamin A, B-complex vitamins, vitamin C, folate (similar to folic acid), bioflavonoids, as well as minerals such as calcium, magnesium, potassium, phosphorus, and others that are essential for proper body function. Want to know the main health benefits of mandarins (tangerines)? Discover what this tropical fruit can do for your body and well-being.

A fruit rich in vitamin C, capable of providing our body with at least one-third of the recommended daily dose. Since vitamin C possesses excellent antioxidant properties, by consuming tangerines, you can greatly care for the health and beauty of your skin.

The antioxidants present in the fruit can increase collagen production, meaning it can assist in wound healing, treat acne, and prevent the appearance of stretch marks.

These nutrients help fight free radicals, the main cause of cell death, which can prevent premature skin aging, keeping wrinkles, fine lines, spots, furrows, and other signs of aging at bay for longer. Furthermore, it helps reduce the incidence of serious diseases such as cancer, cardiovascular diseases, inflammation, cerebral dysfunctions, and retards premature aging.

Also, due to the Nobiletin present in its composition, several studies have proven that consuming tangerines can also help protect the heart from various ailments, including hypertension, atherosclerosis, strokes, heart attacks, and brain hemorrhages. This is because the fruit is rich in potassium, an essential mineral for lowering blood pressure and improving blood flow, which prevents the formation of dangerous blood clots.

Additionally, another benefit of the fruit in this regard is its power to prevent the accumulation of excess fat in the body, causing our liver to burn it instead of storing it. Therefore, by consuming tangerines, it is possible to reduce levels of bad cholesterol (LDL) and increase good cholesterol (HDL), preventing further problems for the heart.

It contains a good amount of fiber, a part of food that is not absorbed and passes directly through the intestine. Besides providing no calories, it reduces the absorption of cholesterol, fats, and sugars, which aids in weight loss. Fibers regulate intestinal transit and strengthen beneficial gut bacteria, which are essential in protection against infections. It prolongs the feeling of satiety due to the fibers remaining in the stomach longer, thereby delaying hunger. Plus, it has less than 60 calories per serving.

Studies prove that citrus fruits perform liver and intestinal detox functions, reducing inflammation and beneficially contributing to fat metabolism.

One of the responsible compounds, in this case, is naringin, a substance found in some citrus fruits, because it acts in the prevention of diseases that increase blood fat and cardiovascular diseases when combined with a healthy diet and physical activity.

Eating tangerines in season (in winter and early spring) ensures a tastier, more aromatic fruit, reaching its peak nutrient content more naturally – generally, the production of seasonal fruits requires less chemical and human interference in development.

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