Changes in the Body from Regular Tangerine Consumption: Vascular Health and Heavy Metal Detoxification
Seasonal tangerines are a representative winter fruit and are loved by many people for their taste and benefits. Thanks to their refreshing and sweet flavor, tangerines are one of the most commonly consumed fruits. Known by various names, most people are more familiar with the term "tangerine" in everyday life. The origin of tangerines is believed to be Indochina in Southeast Asia, and in Korea, they have been cultivated since before the Samhan era, having a deep historical background. Especially during the Joseon Dynasty, tangerines were considered a precious fruit, so much so that they were offered as royal tribute, indicating their high value. This long history of tangerines has continued to this day, making them a cherished fruit for many people.
However, tangerines are not just a refreshing fruit consumed in winter; they offer a wide range of health benefits. Many people may not be aware of the positive changes that occur in the body from regular tangerine consumption. In this article, we will take a deep dive into the various health benefits tangerines provide, especially focusing on how they affect vascular health and heavy metal detoxification. Let’s discover the significant changes that consistent tangerine consumption can bring.
Various Tangerine Varieties and Their Differences
Tangerines, commonly referred to as "citrus" in Korea, come in numerous varieties, each differing in taste, aroma, and size depending on their characteristics and harvest time. The most common variety is 'Onju tangerine,' which is cultivated throughout Jeju and harvested from October as an early-season crop. Onju tangerines are small, with a subtle fragrance, but they are highly popular for their tangy yet sweet flavor. Additionally, they are easy to peel, making them convenient to eat.
Other varieties include Red Hyang, Cheon Hye Hyang, Hallabong, and Golden Hyang, each having its own unique features. Red Hyang is a crossbreed of Hallabong and Onju tangerine, larger and flatter than typical tangerines, with thick flesh. It has a very high sweetness and soft texture, making it popular. Cheon Hye Hyang, a hybrid of tangerine and orange, has almost no sourness and a very sweet, refreshing taste. The wide variety of tangerines offers different flavors, making it enjoyable to find a variety that suits your preference.
The Impact of Tangerine Consumption on Blood Pressure and Vascular Health
Tangerines contain a powerful flavonoid called 'hesperidin,' which positively impacts blood pressure regulation and vascular health. Hesperidin, known as vitamin P, strengthens blood vessels, helping to prevent high blood pressure. The white stringy part of the tangerine flesh, called 'albedo,' is rich in hesperidin, so consuming this part along with the flesh enhances the benefits. Albedo also contains dietary fiber and minerals, making it more effective to eat tangerines whole rather than just the flesh.
Additionally, tangerines are rich in nutrients that strengthen blood vessels, improve circulation, and reinforce the vessel walls, which helps prevent cardiovascular diseases. As people age, it becomes increasingly important to maintain vascular health, and tangerines are a natural and nutritious option. The flavonoids in tangerines facilitate smooth blood flow and prevent arterial stiffness, thereby helping to prevent atherosclerosis and similar conditions.
Tangerine's Role in Heavy Metal Detoxification
Modern individuals are exposed to heavy metals through various sources, such as air pollution, water contamination, and food. When these metals accumulate in the body, they can lead to various health issues. Fortunately, tangerines are a natural food that helps eliminate heavy metals from the body. The vitamin C and citric acid found in tangerines play a vital role in detoxifying heavy metals by preventing their accumulation and promoting their excretion from the body.
Regular consumption of tangerines can effectively eliminate accumulated heavy metals. Vitamin C, a potent antioxidant, prevents oxidative stress caused by heavy metals, and citric acid inhibits their absorption, facilitating their removal. These components are essential for maintaining modern health, and tangerines offer an easy way to gain these detoxifying benefits.
Tangerine's Dietary Fiber and Colon Health
The white inner peel of tangerines is rich in a soluble dietary fiber called 'pectin.' Pectin stimulates bowel movements, helping to prevent constipation, especially in winter when the digestive system can be sensitive. Pectin absorbs water in the intestines, increasing stool bulk and making it easier to pass, thus supporting healthy bowel movements.
Dietary fiber also plays a crucial role in improving colon health. Tangerines promote the growth of beneficial bacteria in the gut and inhibit the growth of harmful bacteria, maintaining a healthy gut environment. The various nutrients in tangerines help eliminate toxins from the colon and improve overall colon function, reducing the risk of diseases like colon cancer.
The Benefits of Vitamin C and Citric Acid for Fatigue Recovery and Skin Care
Tangerines contain 85-90% water, making them an excellent way to replenish moisture in the body, especially during the dry winter months. Eating tangerines helps quench thirst and maintain fluid balance. Furthermore, tangerines are rich in vitamin C and citric acid, which offer excellent benefits for fatigue recovery and skin care. Vitamin C promotes skin cell regeneration and collagen production, helping to maintain skin elasticity.
Citric acid breaks down lactic acid, a substance responsible for fatigue, aiding in faster recovery and restoring energy when the body feels tired. Together, these two components help improve both fatigue and skin condition, and by regularly consuming tangerines, one can maintain vibrant skin and an active lifestyle.
How to Store Tangerines Fresh for Longer
Tangerines are delicate fruits, easily damaged if stacked or bumped against each other. After purchasing, it’s best to individually wrap them in newspaper or paper and store them in a well-ventilated area to prevent moisture from collecting between the fruits and causing them to rot. Storing tangerines at a cool temperature of around 5°C will keep them fresh, and it’s essential to monitor moisture levels to ensure they don’t dry out.
Since tangerines are difficult to store for long periods, it's best to consume them within two weeks to enjoy their freshness and nutritional benefits. Proper moisture management is key to maintaining their freshness, and wrapping them individually in paper can help slow down the spoilage process.
