Tangerines, also known as Mandarin oranges, are a perfect snack for those looking to maintain a healthy lifestyle. With only 58 calories in one NLEA serving, tangerines make a great snack choice. These small, sweet fruits pack a big nutritional punch!
They're low in calories, high in vitamins and minerals, and a great source of fiber- all while being delicious and satisfying.
In this article, we'll explore some of the nutritional benefits of tangerines including their vitamin C content, their immune-boosting properties, and even their cancer-fighting potential. We'll also discuss how tangerines can be used in cooking and their convenience as a portable snack option.
Low in Calories, High in Nutrients
One of the greatest benefits of tangerines is their low calorie count. In just one NLEA serving, tangerines contain only 58 calories, making them a great snack option for those watching their weight. But it's not just their low calorie count that makes tangerines a healthy choice- they're also packed with important vitamins and minerals like vitamin C, folate, and potassium. Choosing tangerines as a snack can help you to feel full, while providing you with vital nutrients that your body needs to thrive.
Rich in Vitamin C
Tangerines are a great source of vitamin C, a nutrient that is essential for supporting a healthy immune system. Just one NLEA serving of tangerines contains 34% of the recommended daily allowance for vitamin C. Vitamin C is also important for promoting healthy skin and wound healing. Regular consumption of tangerines can help to boost your body's vitamin C levels, helping you to stay healthy and strong. Adding tangerines to your diet is an easy way to get more vitamin C in your day-to-day routine.
Boosts Immune System
As mentioned, tangerines are loaded with vitamin C, which is essential for a healthy immune system. But that's not all- tangerines also contain phytochemicals like beta-carotene and flavonoids, which have been shown to have powerful immune-boosting properties. Eating tangerines on a regular basis can help to support your body's natural defenses, protecting you from illnesses and infections. Next time you feel a cold coming on, try reaching for a few tangerines as a natural way to fight off the bug.
Improves Digestion
Tangerines are an excellent source of fiber, which is important for maintaining a healthy digestive system. The fiber in tangerines helps to promote regular bowel movements and can even help to lower cholesterol levels. Incorporating tangerines into your diet can help to improve your digestive health and prevent ailments like constipation and bloating. Plus, the high fiber content of tangerines can help you feel full and satisfied for longer, making them a great snack option to hold you over between meals.
Aids in Weight Loss
Because tangerines are low in calories and high in fiber, they're an excellent snack option for those looking to lose weight. Eating tangerines can help you feel full and satisfied without consuming excess calories, making them a great alternative to chips and other high-calorie snacks. With their low calorie count and high nutritional content, tangerines help to support a healthy diet and can even help with weight loss efforts. So the next time you're looking for a snack, reach for a few servings of tangerines to satisfy your cravings and support your weight loss goals.
Good Source of Fiber
In addition to their other nutritional benefits, tangerines are an excellent source of fiber. One NLEA serving of tangerines contains 3 grams of fiber, or about 12% of the recommended daily intake. Fiber is important for maintaining a healthy digestive system, regulating blood sugar levels, and even supporting heart health. By incorporating tangerines into your diet, you can help to increase your daily fiber intake and promote your overall health. So next time you're looking for a healthy snack, consider reaching for a few delicious tangerines to support your health and wellness goals.
Cancer-Fighting Properties
Tangerines contain compounds like limonene and beta-cryptoxanthin, which have been shown to have cancer-fighting properties. Several studies have linked a higher intake of citrus fruits like tangerines to a lower risk of certain types of cancer, including pancreatic and lung cancer. While more research is needed to fully understand the cancer-fighting potential of tangerines, adding them to your diet is a simple and tasty way to support your body's natural defenses against cancer and other diseases.
As mentioned earlier, tangerines are a great source of vitamin C, which is essential for healthy skin. Vitamin C is a key nutrient in collagen production, which helps to keep our skin looking youthful and firm. In addition, tangerines contain antioxidants which can help to reduce inflammation in the skin and protect against damage from environmental toxins. Incorporating tangerines into your diet can help support healthy, glowing skin, and can even help to prevent premature aging.
Convenient and Portable
One of the best things about tangerines is their convenience. They're small, portable, and easy to eat on-the-go. Whether you're packing them in your lunchbox or tossing a few in your gym bag, tangerines make a great snack choice for busy people. Plus, because they're already peeled and segmented, they're a mess-free snack option that won't leave your hands sticky or dirty. So the next time you're out and about and need a quick snack, reach for a tangerine to enjoy a healthy and convenient option.
Versatile Ingredient
Tangerines aren't just great as a snack- they're also a versatile ingredient in cooking and baking. The juicy, sweet flavor of tangerines can be used to add a burst of flavor to your favorite recipes, from salads and marinades to cakes and quick breads. You can also make your own tangerine juice or use them to infuse water with a subtle citrus flavor. By incorporating tangerines into your cooking and baking, you can enjoy their delicious flavor and reap their nutritional benefits in a variety of different ways.
Eating tangerines on a regular basis can help to support your body's natural defenses, protecting you from illnesses and infections.
Frequently Asked Questions about Tangerines (Mandarin Oranges)
1. What is an NLEA serving of tangerines?
An NLEA (Nutrition Labeling and Education Act) serving of tangerines is typically about 3.5 ounces or approximately 2 small tangerines.
2. How many calories are in an NLEA serving of tangerines?
An NLEA serving of tangerines contains approximately 58 calories.
3. What are the main health benefits of tangerines?
Tangerines are a great source of vitamin C, which supports immune system health and can help protect against chronic diseases. They also contain fiber, potassium, and other beneficial vitamins and minerals.
4. Are tangerines easy to peel?
Yes, tangerines are known for their thin, easy-to-peel skin. This makes them a convenient and enjoyable snack, especially for kids.
5. How should tangerines be stored?
Tangerines should be stored in a cool, dry place, such as a refrigerator. They can also be kept on the counter for a few days, but they will last longer and maintain their freshness better in the fridge.