The Unexpected Property of Tangerines Caught Scientists by Surprise

A new study has revealed an unusual effect of citrus fruits that could change the approach to disease prevention.

A team of scientists from the University of Tokyo discovered that tangerines contain a unique substance capable of slowing down cell aging and reducing the risk of developing neurodegenerative diseases, such as Alzheimer's disease. This effect turned out to be stronger than researchers had anticipated.

What exactly did they find?

In the peel and pulp of tangerines, flavonoid nobiletin was identified, which:

✔ Activates genes responsible for longevity;

✔ Reduces inflammation in the brain;

✔ Protects neurons from damage.

Previously, it was believed that the main benefit of tangerines was vitamin C, but it turned out that their antioxidant effect is much more powerful thanks to this rare compound.

Why is this important?

Until now, nobiletin was studied mainly in test tubes, but new experiments on mice showed:

• Rodents that received tangerine extract had improved memory;

• The accumulation of toxic proteins associated with dementia decreased in their brains.

Scientists admit: the effect was so pronounced that they double-checked the data several times. Clinical trials on humans are now being planned.

What to do right now?

• Eat tangerines whole (the peel contains more nobiletin, but it's bitter - you can make candied peels or add them to tea).

• Choose ripe fruits - they have a higher concentration of beneficial substances.