Naringenin is a flavonone, a natural compound in several types of citrus fruits. According to a paper published by Dr. Erlund in "Human Nutrition and Metabolism" in 2000, naringenin is an antioxidant that has anticarcinogenic properties; it may also help lower levels of blood lipids such as cholesterol. Traditional Chinese medicine uses dried citrus fruits to treat several diseases, including heart disease. A recent study published in the journal "Phytotherapy Research," concluded that naringenin in citrus fruits may block the deposition of plaque that contributes to atherosclerosis and ultimately to heart disease. Certain fruits are good sources of this compound. Always consult a doctor before changing your diet to determine what is most appropriate for you.
Grapefruit
Grapefruit is very rich in naringenin, which is responsible for its somewhat bitter taste. The compound is found in the juice, so fresh grapefruit juice is also a good source of naringenin. Grapefruit juice may interact with some commonly prescribed drugs. If you take prescription medications, consult a doctor before adding grapefruit to your diet.
Sweet Orange
Sweet oranges, which are popular as fresh fruit or used to make juice, also contain naringenin. In these fruits, the bitter taste of the compound is masked by abundant natural sugar. Mandarin oranges, often eaten as canned fruit packed as individual segments, also contain naringenin.
Chinese Bitter Orange
Chinese bitter orange, or Citrus aurantium, is an ingredient in Chinese and Japanese cuisine and an good source of naringenin. A small, orange-colored citrus fruit, it has a slightly sour and very bitter flavor. Although it may be difficult to find as the fresh fruit, dried bitter orange is usually available at specialty stores.
References
- PubMed.gov: Mechanisms of naringenin-induced apoptotic cascade in cancer cells: involvement of estrogen receptor alpha and beta signalling
- PubMed.gov: Naringenin from Citrus junos has an inhibitory effect on acetylcholinesterase and a mitigating effect on amnesia
- PubMed.gov: Naringenin and hesperetin, two flavonoids derived from Citrus aurantium up-regulate transcription of adiponectin
- Human Nutrition and Metabolism: Plasma Kinetics and Urinary Human Nutrition and Metabolism, Plasma Kinetics and Urinary Excretion of the Flavanones Naringenin and Hesperetin in Humans after Ingestion of Orange Juice and Grapefruit Juice; Erlund, I. et al; 2000
- MayoClinic.com: Grapefruit Juice: Can It Cause Drug Interactions?
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