Ushering into the New Year with Mandarin Oranges!
29 January 2022
As the Lunar New Year inches closer, blooming red festival decorations gradually populate homes. Believed to be an auspicious colour – denoting prosperity and energy, it is no surprise that RED is the main colour for the festival.
When we think about the Lunar New Year – with a rich history of about 3,500 years, we think of traditions! Beyond spring cleaning and decorating homes, another popular tradition that one cannot forget would definitely have to be 拜年 (pinyin: ‘bai nian’). 拜年 refers to the traditional exchange of a pair of mandarin oranges from children and unmarried adults, for a red packet from married family members and friends – literally the FIRST course of business when we go house-visiting! This act of traditional gift exchange signifies mutual blessing of good health and fortune. Hence, it is well expected to have an endless supply of oranges during this festive season – let us talk more about them today!
After all, what is a Lunar New Year without oranges?
Did you know? Aside from the luck and prosperity it signifies, oranges can also be harnessed for several health benefits as well!
A complete package of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants – mandarin oranges can provide:
Disease Resistance: PACKED with beta-carotene [P1] [P2] and beta-cryptoxanthin, the body turns these antioxidants into vitamin A – important for normal vision, the immune system, and reproduction.
Reduced cancer development and progression: LOADED with every class of natural cancer-inhibitor known ie. carotenoids, terpenes and flavonoids. Research[P3] has shown that beta-cryptoxanthin effectively prevented the development or progression of various cancers in animal models. Further studies [P4] in this area has also been conducted on human subjects.
Improved Cholesterol Levels: Since mandarin oranges are cholesterol-free and a good source of soluble fibre[P5] , it may act to help reduce LDL cholesterol (also known as the ‘bad’ cholesterol) levels. This can help to decrease postprandial blood glucose and modulate gut microbiota.
Stronger bones: Mandarin oranges contain calcium, magnesium, and potassium. Studies[P6] conducted to review osteoporosis (a bone disease that develops when bone mass decreases) prevention and nutrition revealed that these 3 minerals plays an important role in bone health.
With that being said, it is important for us to note that mandarin oranges remain delightfully sweet! To make sure you are reaping the only best health benefits, do watch out on your intake.
Remember, too much of anything can turn bad!
That’s all for our orange-talk! How are your preparations coming along?
As we stock up on all the yummy Lunar New Year goodies, let's not forget about its indulgent sugar content (high Glycemic Index)!
Considered as one of the most important get-together of the entire year, it is OKAY to want to immerse completely into the festive season, even with the calorie-loaded, sugar-packed goodies!
But this year, W0W ®️ is here to help you control your blood sugar spike! With the perfect 0 blood sugar spike noodles for your Lunar New Year dinners and hotpots, W0W®️ noodles help to leave more room for those festive goodies and drinks – Empowering Health, Restoring Pleasure!
Not sure how to incorporate W0W®️ into your Lunar New Year?
Here’s a novel recipe from Michelin Star Chef Emmanuel Stroobant to guide you along!
References:
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