Are Oranges Good for You?
Absolutely! Eat more oranges - oranges are good for you! They are undoubtedly one of the most nutritious fruits in the planet - and they’re available all-year round. Did you know that oranges contain over 170 different phytochemicals and 60 known anti-oxidants? These powerful ingredients in oranges are most essential in thwarting a wide variety of problems from common colds to life-threatening cancer.
What’s more is that most of these natural phyto-nutrients can’t be gotten by simply taking vitamin supplements - all the more reason to eat oranges!
But what really makes oranges good for you? You already know the answer-they contain a multitude of powerful nutrients that are necessary for a general healthy body. Here are the major compounds found in oranges:
Interesting Facts about Oranges
Did you know that Oranges provide 90% of recommended Vitamin C in just one serving?
Oranges are proven to prevent breast, lung, skin and colon cancers!
Oranges contain anti-inflammatory agents which are used in treating arthritis!
Want lustrous and shiny hair and nails? Eat more oranges. They'll help make your teeth & bones strong too!
Antioxidant compounds in oranges are used in anti-aging serums and other cosmetic creams.
Anti-oxidants and Phytonutrients in Oranges
Many citrus fruits are renowned for their natural package of powerful anti-oxidants and phyto-chemicals but oranges, in particular, are very nutritious as they contain as many as 170 identified phytonutrients and may be even more that we are yet to know about.
Oranges are rich in flavonoids containing natural anti-inflammatory agents that contribute in eliminating pro-inflammatory free radicals responsible for causing cardiovascular disease. Hesperetin and Narigenin are key flavonoids found in oranges. Narigenin is a type of flavonoid that has anti-inflammatory and anti-oxidant properties that not only help defeat free radicals but also promote metabolism of carbohydrates and boost immunity.
Oranges also contain carotenoids that are responsible for the fruit’s bright orange color. Beta-cryptoxanthin, a major carotenoid in oranges, contains anti-inflammatory properties that reduce the risks of lung cancer, arthritis and free radical damage to cells.
Time for a Citrus Poll!
Why do you eat oranges? Because...
Vitamin C in Oranges
A glass of freshly squeezed orange juice has been proven to be richer in Vitamin C than any vitamin c supplement. In fact, an 8 oz glass of orange juice contains 97 mg vitamin C! This is three times more than the Regular Dietary Allowance for both men and women.
Vitamin C is essential for forming a protein called collagen which acts as a sort of glue, binding cells together. Collagen is very potent in acquiring healthy tendons, ligament and joints.
Aside from boosting immunity, vitamin C also prevents hardening of arteries, combats the bad (LDL) cholesterol in our bodies, reverses the negative effects of free radicals and also averts respiratory illnesses including bronchitis, lung cancer, asthma and common colds and flu.
Fiber in Oranges
One medium sized orange-one that can comfortably fit in your hand-contains about 3.1 grams of dietary fiber.
Besides helping regulate bowel movement and preventing irritable bowel syndrome, dietary fiber also helps normalize blood sugar levels in the body by preventing the rise of blood sugar immediately after eating a meal. The fiber in oranges also helps bind harmful cancer-causing substances before they reach the colon, thereby helping avert colon cancer.
Calling all Orange Lovers!
Potassium in Oranges
When it comes to top 10 foods rich in potassium, oranges and orange juice are among the list. One small orange contains 237 mg of potassium and a 6 oz glass of fresh orange juice has about the same amount of potassium. Potassium is very necessary for a general healthy body. It helps normalize blood pressure, pump out excess sodium in cells and also balance fluid levels in and out of cells. Very low intake of potassium causes sodium levels to rise in the body thereby leading to various inflammatory conditions. An orange a day may help you conserve potassium in your body and also lessen the chances of acquiring kidney stones, osteoporosis, stroke and cardiovascular disease.
Additional Nutrients Found in Oranges
Oranges are not only packed with the above essential nutrients but also other significant compounds such as
Calcium, which is good for strong bones and teeth
Magnesium for healthy bones and teeth, normal functioning of the nervous system, maintaining proper circulation of blood in the body.
Phosphorus for repair and growth of tissues, strong skeletal system and facilitating DNA production.
Vitamin D, for strong bones, facilitates the absorption of calcium and phosphorus, stabilizes blood sugar levels in the body.
Precaution
Much as oranges are VERY good for you, don’t go hyper and start consuming tones of them. Oranges contain a lot of acidity and vitamin C in them. Don’t forget that too much acidity in the body can cause heartburns, gastritis, osteoporosis, heart disease, gout and even obesity. Additionally, oranges are very good for the kidney but high levels of vitamin c can damage the liver and kidneys beyond proper functioning. Lastly, remember that too much of anything is bad for you.
Now you know why oranges are good for you!
Read More on Orange Health Benefits:
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