New research from the University of Western Ontario has discovered that tangerines may not only help to prevent obesity but may even have a protective properties against type 2 diabetes and atherosclerosis. The substance which is responsible for these effects is the flavonoid, Nobiletin.

The study was conducted in rats. They found that rats fed a diet rich in Nobiletin experienced no weight gain, no elevation in cholesterol, insulin or glucose and triglycerides compared to rats fed a 'western diet'.

The mechanism of action of Nobiletin was shown to prevent build up of fat in the liver and inhibited the genes responsible for manufacturing fat. These results are very promising.

Until further studies are conducted in humans, the jury is still out if tangerines will provide a protective effect against obesity, but the same researcher did discover the benefits of grapefruit and obesity.

Until such time this research is confirmed then we need to ensure that we aim for five a day of fruits and vegetables to obtain the goodness of flavonoids that they offer, and hopefully help to fight against obesity.