Oranges' cousins: Nutritional breakdown, advantages, and potential drawbacks
Clementines, the sweet and tangy citrus fruits, are not just a delight to the taste buds but also offer a wealth of health benefits. Here's a closer look at what makes these little oranges so nutritious and why they might pose a potential risk for some individuals.
Clementines are packed with flavonoids, the highest content among all citrus fruits. These powerful antioxidants boast anti-inflammatory, anticancer, cardiovascular protective, antiallergic, and antidepressant properties [1]. Furthermore, the dietary fiber found in clementines is a boon for gut health, improving gut microflora and colon health, regulating appetite, and even protecting against cardiovascular disease [2].
One raw clementine contains approximately 34.8 calories, 1.26 grams of dietary fiber, 0.11 grams of fat, 22.2 milligrams of calcium, 0.15 milligrams of vitamin E, 0.06 milligrams of vitamin B-6, and 6.79 grams of sugar. The fruit is also a rich source of vitamin C, with one raw clementine containing 36.1 milligrams, and is rich in provitamin A carotenoids [3].
Ripe clementines are bright orange and have a strong citrus aroma. They should have soft, thin skin that is easy to peel.
However, it's important to note that the consumption of clementines, like other citrus fruits, may interact with certain medications. These interactions are primarily linked to their citrus nature, which can affect the metabolism and effectiveness of certain medications. Specifically, clementines, similar to grapefruit, may interfere with how some drugs work, particularly those metabolized by liver enzymes [4].
Medications like tamoxifen, which is used in estrogen receptor-positive breast cancer treatment, can be affected by this interaction, potentially reducing their effectiveness [5]. Grapefruit and related citrus fruits can interact with various medications by inhibiting enzymes responsible for drug metabolism, leading to altered drug levels [4]. While the evidence for clementines is less certain, it's advisable for patients taking these or related medications to consult their healthcare providers about consuming clementines or similar citrus fruits to manage any risks appropriately [4].
On the bright side, clementines do not pose risks related to calcium-mediated drug absorption issues, which primarily concern antibiotics and some thyroid medications [1].
In conclusion, clementines are a nutritious snack offering a host of health benefits. However, individuals taking certain medications should exercise caution and consult their healthcare providers to manage any potential risks associated with citrus-induced changes in metabolism.
References:
- FoodData Central - Clementine, raw
- Healthline - 7 Health Benefits of Clementines
- Healthline - Clementines: Nutrition Facts and Health Benefits
- Mayo Clinic - Grapefruit and medication interactions
- Cancer Research UK - Tamoxifen and grapefruit or Seville oranges
- The health benefits of clementines, rooted in a high content of flavonoids and rich nutrients such as vitamin C and provitamin A carotenoids, make them a valuable addition to a health-and-wellness-focused diet, supports the science of nutrition.
- Fitness enthusiasts will appreciate the dietary fiber found in clementines, known for its role in improving gut health, a vital aspect of overall fitness-and-exercise well-being.
- While clementines offer a myriad of health benefits, it's essential to consider potential interactions with certain medications, particularly those metabolized by liver enzymes, to maintain optimal health and avoid unforeseen complications.
