Mandarin oranges and miso soup are healthy food choices for the body. Miso soup is made from a paste of fermented soy beans, a source of dietary protein and probiotics, which are beneficial to the gastrointestinal tract. Mandarin oranges are a source of vitamins that support the immune system. Although these foods are not a common combination, they are both healthy food choices and supportive of weight loss efforts if eaten while on a diet.
Vitamins
Mandarin oranges are an impressive source of vitamin C, with more than 100 percent of the daily recommended intake in just one orange, according to My Plate on LIVESTRONG.COM. Adequate vitamin C in the diet is vital for efficient immune function. Mandarin oranges also are a minimal source of vitamin A, with about 2 percent of the daily recommended intake per orange. Miso soup and its concentrated form, bean paste, are a rich source of vitamin B-12, supportive of brain function and metabolism.
Minerals
Mandarin orange is a source of some dietary minerals, but only in small amounts. One orange contains 4 percent of the daily value of calcium and 2 percent of iron. Miso soup and miso bean paste are not a dietary source of minerals.
Probiotics
Miso soup, and more importantly the concentrate, soy bean paste, are produced by fermenting soy beans. The fermenting process results in the presence of living bacterial cultures, also known as probiotics. These probiotics can colonize in the gastrointestinal tract, most importantly in the colon, to support proper digestive function. Probiotics are responsible for keeping unfriendly bacteria under control, which otherwise can result in a yeast overgrowth in the body.
Antioxidants
Mandarin oranges are considered to be a food high in antioxidants, namely vitamin C. The term antioxidant refers to an active nutrient that supports the reversal of the effects of oxidization in the body. Oxidization is the result of poor diet, pollution, toxins such as smoking or pesticide residues on non-organic food, and radiation from microwaves and the environment. All of these factors and more contribute to aging and increased susceptibility to degenerative diseases and conditions. Consuming antioxidants from fresh fruits, vegetables and especially berries can help combat the damage the body suffers on a daily basis.
References
- ''Healing with Whole Foods: Asian Traditions and Modern Nutrition''; Paul Pitchford; 2002
- ''The New Whole Foods Encyclopedia''; Rebecca Wood; 2010
- Livestrong.com: My Plate: Mandarin Orange
- Livestrong.com: My Plate: Miso Soup
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