5 Surprising Health Benefits of Eating Citrus Fruits

This morning I bounced from the bed, with a jolly step as I donned my running gear. The sun is shining and the sky ocean blue. This isn't a common site in central and northern China throughout the winter months, so when such conditions occur one feels blessed.

From the bedroom, I progressed to the kitchen to prepare my one and only coffee of the day. I wrote recently to consider the benefits of quitting (or at least drastically reducing) one's coffee intake. Since limiting my coffee consumption, I now savour every single moment of that morning delight. After this, I grabbed my running shoes and strapped myself into my mobile phone holder, preparing the running application at the same time.

The morning run was pleasurable, totalling an unexpected 15 kilometres. This was more than I expected this morning but given the beautiful weather conditions who'd want to come home sooner than necessary?

When I did arrive home, however, I had a lunch composing of various citrus fruits (and some protein, never fear) - my reason for writing today. For the past few months, it has been the citrus fruit season. When one enters the supermarket, local food market or browses the ample number of street fruit vendors, bright fruits of all kind adorn displays.

Individual sellers are a common site in China. In most cases these sellers are the farmers too, making a living from growing and then selling. Often one can get a good deal when the fruit is in season, not least because the sellers are excited to communicate with travellers - whether you can speak the language or not!

I don't envy them carrying that fruit all day, especially throughout the summer months.

What citrus did I have awaiting my consumption? I had a choice of pomelo, grapefruit or orange. All citrus fruits are known for their juicy sourness. The pomelo is an unusual member of the citrus family, known to fewer people than others.

I’m sure you could find pomelos if you look hard enough. Just like a larger grapefruit, the pomelo can come with either light yellow or deep red meat. The price is usually between 3-8 RMB per kilo for the white and 10-20 RMB for the red.

I have been eating many citrus fruits recently, urging me to investigate the health benefits. So, what are the advantages of eating citrus fruits? The following five benefits appear the most appealing.

• Immune System

  • Many of us are aware of the immune boosting impact of Vitamin C. All citrus fruits have a large quantity of this vitamin so are a good choice if you have been feeling under the weather. Surprisingly, an entire pomelo (go on, I'm sure you could manage an entire fruit) has more than 600% of the daily VC requirement.
    
    

• Digestion

  • If you're suffering from uncomfortable digestion problems such as diarrhoea or constipation, citrus fruits could be your cure. With an increased amount of fibre in your diet, food is able to move through the bowel with few problems. Luckily citrus fruits are high in fibre.
    
    

• Potassium Content

  • The high potassium content of citrus fruits is beneficial in three different ways. First, potassium can aid in reducing blood pressure by allowing blood to traverse your arteries with ease. Second, potassium ensures balanced fluid levels within the body, particularly in the muscles preventing cramping. Third, potassium can help to keep bones strong by helping to increase density.
    
    

• Anti-aging

  • The Vitamin C content in citrus fruit can help to combat those wrinkles by seeking out free radicals. The healthy feeling on the inside after eating citrus will seep out into the skin.
    
    

• Weight Loss

  • Both pomelos and grapefruits have a fat-burning component called Carnitine pamitoyl-transferase. If you are trying to lose weight, these fruits could be for you.

There we have it, five core reasons to stock up your fruit bowl with citrus fruits. The bright colours and summery glow won't only make you feel happy when devouring but also contribute to your health in the long term.

If you are trying to decide what to do with your day today, I urge you to go to the store or local market to hunt out some citrus fruits. You won't regret it!

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