Tangerines may hold key to fighting obesity and diabetes
Although available year-round, the true citrus craze kicks off in the fall and winter. We treasure tangerines as rich sources of vitamin C, but scientists reveal that our beloved oranges and tangerines may also help combat obesity, atherosclerosis, and diabetes.
Scientists from the Robarts Research Institute at the University of Western Ontario tested mice, revealing that nobiletin—a compound found in tangerines and oranges—effectively counteracts the symptoms and conditions associated with obesity, including arterial atherosclerosis.
Tangerines and oranges for obesity, diabetes, and atherosclerosis
Researchers placed the mice on a high-fat, cholesterol-rich diet. The animals that received nobiletin (a polymethoxylated flavone present in large amounts in citrus fruit peel) gained less weight, exhibited less insulin resistance, and had lower serum lipid levels compared to the mice that did not receive this compound.
"The mice given nobiletin were essentially protected from obesity. In long-term studies, the flavone also shielded the animals from atherosclerosis, which involves degenerative and proliferative changes in the arteries that could lead to a heart attack or stroke," emphasized Prof. Murray Huff, who led the research.
Experts acknowledge that the mechanism by which nobiletin works isn't fully understood, but Prof. Huff explains that the results of these tests should be considered significant. Notably, two years ago, Prof. Huff's team discovered the flavonoid naringenin in grapefruits. This compound protects against obesity and metabolic syndrome, yet nobiletin is 10 times more effective in these areas. Additionally, as demonstrated by Prof. Huff's team, nobiletin also aids in protecting against atherosclerosis.
Why eat tangerines and oranges?
Research indicates that nobiletin showcases other health-promoting properties, including neuroprotective effects, which may prevent the development of neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer's disease, as well as anti-cancer, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant effects.
Tangerines and oranges, sources of nobiletin, offer a wealth of other valuable properties. Consuming one orange or two tangerines can fulfill the daily requirement for vitamin C. Moreover, the essential oils in citrus fruits have relaxing properties that positively affect our mood. Even though they taste acidic, citrus fruits have an alkaline effect on the body, helping to maintain acid-base balance.
Source: mediarelations.uwo.ca/2020/03/02/molecule-found-in-oranges-could-reduce-obesity-and-prevent-heart-disease-and-diabetes/
