BY CHISOM IBEMERE
Tangerine is a variety of citrus fruit with Orange colour. The name “Tangerine” was used in Tangier, Morcco which is descibed as a Mandarin variety. Tangerine are usually smaller in size and not perfectly rounded when compared with Oranges. It is more sweater, less acidic and has more water than Oranges. The peel are commonly removed by hand and eaten. They may be included in salad, dishes and in drinks.
Tangerine was first cultivated in America. The name “Tangerine” came about because it was first imported through a city called Tangier in Morocco.
Tangerine is a nutrient dense and water rich fruit. It contains 85% of water, calories, carbs, fibre, fats, vitamin A, B, C, potassium and lots more. They have lots of beta-cryptoxanthin which is an antioxidant that is converted into Vitamin A which is responsible for it’s unique colour and helps in keeping the skin healthy and Youthful.
Tangerine is an excellent fruit for the body especially for pregnant women. This is due to the presence of Vitamin B and folic acid. The presence of folic acid helps greatly in the synthesis of amino acids that produces red and white blood cells, facilitate cell growth and division.
Tangerine contains potassium in great amount that regulate blood pressure and fluids. The fibre contained in Tangerine helps to manage body weight by regulating how the body absorb cholesterol. It is good for the gut health and also improves proper bowel movement. It contains flavonoids, phenolics which are powerful anti-oxidants that give protection against cell damage, reduce inflammations and fights cardiovascular and heart related diseases. They are also great in Cancer prevention and control.
Vitamin C and A rich Tangerine are very beneficial for eye health. Vitamin A improves Retina and Cornea functions while Vitamin C is essential to prevent age related macular degeneration which causes the reduction of eye vision and other eye problems.
