WHAT IS TANGERETIN?
Tangeretin is one of the many flavones that can be found in plant based foods and is part of the phytonutrient family (a group of chemical compounds that occur naturally in plants and have multiple health benefits but are not considered essential to human health). In this article I will be discussing tangeretin in greater detail.
WHEN WAS TANGERETIN DISCOVERED?
Tangeretin was discovered in 1938 by the Hungarian biochemist Albert Szent-Györgyi as part of the flavonoid family. He initially referred to the flavonoids as vitamin P but it was later discovered that they are not essential to human health and therefore not technically vitamins.
HOW DOES YOUR BODY USE TANGERETIN?
Tangeretin is a phytonutrient which can reduce low density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol levels, fight cancer and more. The list below outlines the main benefits of tangeretin:
– Preventing cancer.
– Protecting the brain from damage.
– Protecting the nervous system cells from damage.
– Reducing blood levels of LDL cholesterol (a type of cholesterol which can cause blockages in the arteries and increase your heart disease risk).
HOW MUCH TANGERETIN DO YOU NEED?
Tangeretin is not considered essential for human health so no recommended daily allowance (RDA) has been established.
WHICH FOODS CONTAIN TANGERETIN?
There is little information available on the exact amounts of tangeretin in foods. The richest source of this phytonutrient is often the peel of citrus fruits. Oranges are believed to contain 0.3 milligrams (mg) of tangeretin per 100 grams (g) but other citrus fruits are also a good source.
WHAT ARE THE SYMPTOMS OF GETTING TOO MUCH TANGERETIN?
Currently there are no reported overdose symptoms associated with tangeretin consumption.
WHAT ARE THE SYMPTOMS OF NOT GETTING ENOUGH TANGERETIN?
Tangeretin is not classed as essential nutrient so there are no reported deficiency symptoms.
TANGERETIN SUMMARY
Whilst there has only been limited research performed on tangeretin, the early signs are very promising. It has been shown to be protective against brain damage, cancer and nerve damage. So if you do not currently eat citrus fruits and value your health, start making some changes to day. Oranges are a fantastic snack that can be eaten on the move and will provide you with adequate amounts of tangeretin.
Sources:
List of Phytochemicals in Food (Wikipedia)
Tangeretin (Phytochemicals.info)
What is Phytochemical? (Juicing For Health)