Honeybell Oranges

All citrus fruits are known for their refreshing aroma and juiciness. Honeybell oranges belong to the group of citrus fruits only. But they are not 'oranges' though they are called oranges. They look like oranges and therefore they must have got this name. A honeybell orange is also known as 'tangelo'.

Characteristic Properties of Honeybell Oranges

Though honeybells look like oranges, their shape is different from that of oranges. They are not perfectly round as oranges are. They are slightly oblong and can be easily differentiated from oranges or tangerines, as they have a typical knob at the top. Though they are generally listed under types of oranges, they inherit the properties of tangerines as well as grapefruits. They are slightly smaller than oranges but are less sour and much sweeter than oranges. Honeybells you get in the markets are products of human efforts. Instead of pulp, they supply abundant juice. Though they are popular, they are not easily available in market. So they are usually priced higher than oranges. Only two average sized honeybells are enough to get a full glass juice.

Minneola tangelo (developed in 1931) and Orlando tangelo (developed in 1911) are some of the most popular varieties of tangelos. If you are thinking of planting honeybell orange trees in your garden, then you should choose the specific breeds so that you would be able to enjoy bountiful harvests. You need to take proper care of the trees, for which you need to consult an expert. The crop is harvested in the months of January and February. Tangelo trees are commonly grown along the Indian River in Florida. Studies show that tangelos are low in calories and hence can be included in weight loss diets.

Origin
Honeybell oranges are believed to be developed as a hybrid of the tangerine (often called mandarin orange) and the grapefruit (cousin of pomelo), about 3000 years before. Unbelievable, isn't it? But it is a fact that like animals and human beings, plants also adapt and continue to live in a challenging environment. Honeybell orange is believed to be the resultant fruit of such adaptation. These fruits are native to southeast Asia. These days, they are produced as a hybrid or cross between the Darcy variety of tangerine and either the Duncan or Bowen variety of grapefruit.

Nutrition Facts
One medium-sized (about 131 g) honeybell orange contains 60 calories. A medium-sized Minneola honeybell (about 109 g) contains 70 calories. 1 small-sized honeybell with about 32 calories contains:

Nutrient	Daily Value
Total Fat	0%
Cholesterol	0%
Total Carbohydrates	3% (7.99g)
Dietary Fiber	6% (16 g)
Potassium	0% (123 mg)
Protein	0% (0.64 g)
Sugars	2% (6.36 g)
Vitamin C	60% (160 mg)
Calcium	3% (7.99 g)

A honeybell contains ample vitamin C and dietary fiber. The dietary fiber helps prevent constipation and improve the overall health. The fruits thus help strengthen your immune system and improves your digestive system. It actually helps improve your overall health in several ways. These oranges do not contain fat and cholesterol. You get flavonoids and vitamin C from these juicy fruits which help prevent common cold, bronchitis, throat infections, asthma and several other health problems. As the fruits contain antioxidants, they do not allow free radicals to cause damage to the body.

Consumption of fruits like honeybell oranges helps slow down the process of aging. These fruits promote healthy aging. There is no need to use anti-aging creams which are likely to cause side effects. Vitamins, minerals, antioxidants from honeybells help prevent infections and diseases, even cancers. They strengthen your bones and teeth. They are often included in the diets designed for diabetics and heart patients. So, what are you waiting for? Get some tangelos and enjoy the sweet juice. They are incredibly nourishing and good for health.