Health Guide

Tangelo

Meet the Tangelo: a vibrant, honey-sweet hybrid of a tangerine and a pomelo (or grapefruit). Often recognized by its distinct 'nipple' at the top, this citrus fruit is a nutritional powerhouse often overlooked in the produce aisle. Far more than just a tasty snack, the Tangelo packs a serious punch of Vitamin C, fiber, and flavonoids like naringenin. It is a natural, whole-food supplement that supports your immune system and skin health without the need for pills or powders.

Evidence BasedDietary Supplement

VERIFIED SOURCE

Bio-Activity Analysis

Vitamin C Bioavailability: Whole Fruit vs. Synthetic

SCIENTIFIC DATA VISUALIZATION

Y-Axis

Absorption Rate (%)

Source Type →

Health Benefits & Sources

Why You Need It

Immune System Armor: One Tangelo can provide over 100% of your daily Vitamin C, essential for fighting off infections.
Glowing Skin: The high antioxidant content fights free radicals, helping to reduce wrinkles and improve skin texture naturally.
Better Digestion: It contains both soluble and insoluble fiber, which regulates blood sugar and keeps you feeling full longer.

Deep Dive

The magic of the Tangelo lies in its unique blend of flavonoids. While many citrus fruits offer Vitamin C, Tangelos are particularly rich in beta-cryptoxanthin, a pigment that your body converts into Vitamin A. This specific compound is linked to reduced inflammation in the body. Unlike processed supplements, the fiber matrix in the whole fruit slows down sugar absorption, preventing the energy crash associated with fruit juices.

Natural Food Sources

The Tangelo is the source! Unlike synthetic nutrients, you get the whole package—fiber, water, and micronutrients working together.

Food Source	Amount	% DV (Vitamin C)
Tangelo	1 medium (140g)	~100%
Orange	1 medium	~90%
Kiwi	1 medium	~70%
Strawberries	1 cup	~100%

Supplementation

Do you need a supplement? No. The Tangelo is a whole food. If you cannot find fresh Tangelos, a high-quality whole-food Vitamin C complex is the next best thing, but eating the actual fruit is superior due to the synergistic enzymes present.

Top Food Sources

Tangelo

Honey-sweet, high fiber, peak winter season

Kumquats

Eat whole skin and all for extra fiber

Red Bell Pepper

Surprisingly high in Vitamin C

Broccoli

Great source of fiber and C

Guava

Extremely high Vitamin C density

Frequently Asked Questions

While 'superfood' is a marketing term, the Tangelo is nutrient-dense. It offers more Vitamin C than an orange and contains unique antioxidants not found in other citrus fruits.

The skin is edible and rich in essential oils, but it is very bitter. It is best used for zest or tea, rather than eating raw.

It contains natural sugar (fructose), but because it is high in fiber, it has a moderate glycemic index. It is safe for most diabetics in moderation.

They are a winter fruit, typically available from January through April in the Northern Hemisphere.

Safety & Side Effects

Safety Profile

Tangelos are generally recognized as safe (GRAS) for the vast majority of people. However:

Acidity: If you suffer from acid reflux (GERD) or sensitive teeth, the citric acid may cause irritation.
Medication Interaction: Like grapefruits, Tangelos contain compounds that can interfere with enzymes breaking down certain drugs (like statins or blood pressure meds). Consult your doctor if you are on prescription medication.

Scientific References

[1]USDA FoodData Central: Tangelos nutrient profile.
[2]Journal of Nutrition: 'Citrus Flavonoids and Cardiovascular Health'.
[3]National Institutes of Health: 'Vitamin C and Immune Function'.