In the family of Rutacea in Asia is a shrub that bears the fruit of mandarins. Mandarin bears a spitting semblance to an orange, albeit smaller with a thin peel. The variety of mandarin includes Clementine, Tangor, Owari and Satsuma. Tangerine is a kind of mandarin and is the more popular mandarin. Mandarin is favorites for use as salads and can be eaten raw as well. Other uses include flavor for candies, bubble gums and ice cream.
1. Vitamins and minerals
Mandarins are like oranges, rich in vitamins such as vitamin A and B. The vitamin c found in mandarin is useful in combating unstable molecules otherwise known as free radicals. This is because it is an anti-oxidant. The work of anti-oxidants is to destroy the free radicals hence prevent damage on the They are also rich in minerals like iron, magnesium, potassium, phosphorus and calcium.
2. Fiber and Fat Content
Mandarins are rich in fiber, supplying 14% per 1 cup of orange section. They are low in fat. They contain both soluble and insoluble fiber like hemicelluloses and pectin both of which are useful in preventing absorption of cholesterol in the body. This is due to the presence of synephrine which regulate the production of Low Density Lipoprotein (LDLs) in the body. Bad cholesterol or LDL is responsible for cholesterol which lodges itself on the artery walls, leading to cardiovascular diseases such as heart attack.
3. Cancer Prevention
It has been found in a research that mandarins help to combat liver cancer to a great deal. This is due to the presence of Vitamin A .The juice extracted from mandarin contains a high content of beta cryptoxanthin,the substance responsible for combating hepatitis C.The substance limonene found in mandarin is known to contain anti-cancer properties and hence useful in preventing breast cancer.
4. Blood Pressure regulation
Mandarins are useful in helping to reduce blood pressure. This is because they contain minerals such as potassium which is useful in lowering blood pressure. They ensure smooth flow of blood along the arteries and help to regulate normal blood pressure.
5.Weight Loss
Due to its high fiber content, it gives you a ‘fullness’ feeling in your stomach for long, hence you eat less. This is useful in controlling your weight. Doctors have also found that mandarins lower insulin which ensures that you burn the stored fats instead of storing sugar. More insulin production leads to storage of more fat in the body.
6. Immune System
The vitamin C is useful in fighting cold and ensuring proper functioning of the immune system. Mandarins contain microbial properties that prevent bacterial functions. Over and above that, they prevent disorders of the digestive system such as spasm, cramps and vomiting. They purify blood and remove toxins from the body.
7. Healthy Skin
Mandarins reduce ageing signs like wrinkles, fine lines and blemishes. This is due to the presence of anti-oxidants which protect the skin from UVA rays hence prevent damage caused by the sun as well as free radicals.
Image Credit : Joe Ravi
