Tangerine Dreams

Tangerines: the perfect tangy little fruit snack. But what sets this delightful and picturesque little orange apart from the wide and extensive orange family? Tangerines are derived from the mandarin family, and are a small and thin-skinned variant of the Rutaceae mandarin family. Tangerine trees are quite beautiful, with glossy green leaves and perfumed white flowers. Besides their delectableness, here are a few reasons you should consider snacking on these little mandarins:

• Tangerines are very refreshing, being nutrient and water rich. They are about 85% water, and contain vitamin C, vitamin B, and potassium.
• The beta-cryptoxanthin antioxidant which gives tangerines their vivid orange color is converted to vitamin A in the body!
• The vitamin C in tangerines helps boost the immune system. Thus, tangerines can reduce duration and severity of the common cold. Also, tangerines can help reduce the severity of allergic reactions.
• Healthy antioxidants that tangerines contain can help protect the brain against conditions like schizophrenia and Parkinson’s disease.
• Yet another benefit of vitamin C is its ability to reduce the risk of some cancers.
• Eating tangerines regularly may help support wound healing after surgery.
• Vitamin C in tangerines helps our bodies make collagen, which is what keeps skin feeling and looking youthful.

Don’t waste overripe tangerines- put them in marmalade! Happy snacking!