Oranges must be good for you! After all, they are the only fruits which have a colour named after them! But is vitamin C all they have to offer?
Oranges are a part of the family of citrus fruits, the others being sweet lime and grapefruit. Oranges are bursting with goodness. Apart from vitamin C which helps the body ward off infections, oranges also contain an impressive list of other vitamins, minerals and anti-oxidants.
How to choose oranges in the supermarket
When choosing oranges, pick those that are heavier for their size, smoother in texture as they contain more juice while the deep pitted ones tend to be dry. What most people don’t know is that the albedo (white part of the orange under the peel ) is rich in bioflavonoids and other anti-cancer substances so remember to eat it the next time you have oranges on your table.
Health benefits of oranges
Building immunity: The high vitamin C content (one orange provides almost 100% of our daily requirement) stimulates the white blood cells to resist infection and give a boost to the immune system.
In the war against cancer: Oranges contain a compound called liminoids which helps fight cancers of the mouth, breast, skin, lung, stomach and colon (large intestine). Also due to the anti-oxidant properties, it fights free radicals associated with cell damage.
Antidote to constipation: Being high in fibre, oranges lead to easy passage of stools. Although they are considered to be acidic foods, they have an alkaline effect in the digestive system and help the secretion of digestive juices thereby avoiding constipation.
Giving a boost to male fertility: An orange a day promotes healthy sperm. The anti-oxidant properties of oranges counter sperm damage and lead to a reduction in birth defects due to genetic factors.
Lowering cholesterol: Anti-oxidants have been attributed to check LDL (low density lipoprotein) or in other words, bad cholesterol whereas the alkaloid synephrine present under an orange peel reduces cholesterol production by the liver.
Prevent kidney stones: A glass of orange juice is invaluable in preventing the formation of calcium oxalate stone in the kidneys.
Reduce risk of heart disease and thickening of artery walls: Regular and high intake of oranges halves the risk of heart disease and delays thickening of walls of arteries by virtue of vitamin C and flavonoids.
Lower high blood pressure: A study has reported that the flavonoid hesperidin in oranges lowers high blood pressure in sufferers.
Prevent peptic ulcers: People who suffer from stomach ulcers, also called peptic ulcers are advised to consume vitamin C rich foods as they help prevent ulcer formation.
A natural anti-aging elixir: Anti-oxidants in oranges neutralize the free radicals that cause skin damage leading to wrinkle formation and dull skin.
Surprising how many health benefits this commonly found fruit hides, right? So, what are you waiting for? Go grab one now!
