Mandatory Dishes during Chinese New Year, Here are the Benefits of Mandarin Oranges for Health

JAKARTA - Mandarin oranges have long been synonymous with Chinese New Year celebrations. This bright orange fruit is often present as a gift, table decoration, and a treat for guests. In addition to symbolizing luck, prosperity, and happiness, mandarin oranges also have many benefits for the body's health.

Not only sweet and fresh, Mandarin oranges are citrus fruits that are rich in vitamins, minerals, and important antioxidants. Its relatively small size, easy to peel, and taste are liked by all ages, making this fruit suitable for healthy snacks during celebrations.

Here are the benefits of eating Mandarin oranges for the body, as reported by the WebMD website on Tuesday, February 17, 2026.

1. Rich in antioxidants that help maintain body resistance

The orange color of Mandarin oranges comes from beta-carotene and beta-cryptoxanthin compounds. Both are antioxidants that help protect body cells from damage caused by free radicals. These antioxidants also play a role in reducing the risk of several chronic diseases.

Inside the body, beta-carotene is converted into vitamin A which is important for maintaining the immune system, eye health, as well as supporting the growth and development of the body.

In addition, Mandarin oranges are also known as a good source of vitamin C. Vitamin C helps increase the body's resistance, maintain skin health, and speed up wound healing. The intake of vitamin C from fresh fruit is generally easier to be absorbed by the body than from supplements.

2. Good for Heart Health

Mandarin oranges are cholesterol-free and low in fat, so they are safe to eat as part of a healthy diet. The soluble fiber content in it helps provide a longer feeling of fullness while also playing a role in lowering LDL cholesterol or bad cholesterol levels.

Too high LDL levels can build up in the blood vessels and increase the risk of heart disease, heart attacks, and strokes. By eating fibrous fruits such as mandarin oranges, the risk can be suppressed.

3. Controlling Blood Pressure

In addition to fiber, Mandarin oranges also contain potassium. This mineral helps control blood pressure by balancing the sodium levels in the body and helps relax the walls of blood vessels.

Consuming potassium-rich fruits and fiber regularly can help keep blood pressure stable, especially if it is balanced with a healthy lifestyle such as reducing fatty foods, quitting smoking, and limiting alcohol consumption.

4. Supports Bone Health

Mandarin oranges also contain calcium, magnesium, and potassium which play an important role in maintaining bone density. The intake of these minerals helps make bones stronger and reduces the risk of fragility or fractures later in life.

5. Healthy Natural Sweetness

Naturally, Mandarin oranges have a sweet taste so they don't need extra sugar. This fruit is also low in calories, fat-free, and low in sodium. This makes it a healthy snack choice in the midst of various Chinese New Year dishes that tend to be high in sugar and fat.

In order to maximize the benefits, it is best to choose fresh Mandarin oranges. If you buy canned Mandarin oranges, pay attention to the packaging label and choose those without added sugar or packaged in juice, not syrup.

It's no wonder that Mandarin oranges are always present in the Chinese New Year celebration. In addition to its good meaning as a symbol of luck and prosperity, this fruit also provides many real benefits for health.

When enjoying Mandarin oranges with your family during the Chinese New Year, you are not only keeping a tradition, but also providing good nutrition for the body.