Most people know that oranges are an excellent source of vitamin C, but they actually have various other benefits too. Here are 10 reasons why oranges are good for you.
10 Reasons Why Oranges Are Good For You
1. Anti-Inflammatory Properties
I bet you didn’t know that a single orange contains over 60 flavonoids and 170 phytochemicals with anti-inflammatory effects. Foods like oranges that are antioxidant-rich pack a more powerful punch than meditation to ward off long-term inflammation which is linked to diabetes, depression, heart disease, Alzheimer’s and arthritis.
2. Beneficial For Muscle and Nerve Health
Just like bananas, oranges contain large amounts of potassium which are beneficial for fuelling muscles and nerves, plus it helps to keep your heartbeat stable. Oranges are also helpful in putting back electrolytes into the body and warding off cramps after a workout.
3. They Are Folate-Rich
The body requires B vitamins to produce DNA along other genetic material for your cells to divide. It is particularly essential for pregnant women since folate combats birth defects in the spines and brains of infants.
4. Reducing Damage To The Body From Free Radicals
The reason for the bright orange colour in oranges is thanks to a pigment called beta carotene which is a potent antioxidant. This antioxidant is good for cell health, plus it reduces the damage inflicted to the body from free radicals.
Free radicals are molecules that produce additional oxygen when you workout and break down food. However, your body also produces them when you are exposed to radiation from UV rays, chemicals, and tobacco.
5. It Contains Thiamin
Thiamin, also called B1, is a fundamental vitamin in the body that transforms food into energy and assists the body with processing other nutrients. Each cell in your body needs thiamin, and it is usually found in foods like cereal, pasta, bread, rice, and oranges.
6. Raw Oranges Are More Beneficial
Even though orange juice is a favourite of many at the breakfast table and has its own benefits, whole oranges contain a healthy kick of fiber that is useful for meeting your daily quota. A whole orange contains about 3 mg of fiber of the 25-30 mg your body requires each day.
7. The Zest Contains Antioxidants
Orange zest brightens up dishes and is a good source of potassium, antioxidants, and calcium. You can add orange zest to dishes like cookies, vegetables, over pasta, roasted meats or desserts like lemon meringue pie.
8. Don’t Discard The Pith
The pith is the stringy white part that is located between the fruit and peel. Most people avoid this part because of the bitterness. However, it is packed with vitamin C, fiber, calcium and immune-fighting flavonoids. You can add the pith to your morning smoothie to enjoy all the benefits it offers and to avoid the bitter taste.
9. Vitamin C Enriched
Did you know you can get around 70% of the daily recommended quote of vitamin C from one orange? Vitamin C is essential for boosting the immune system, plus it assists the body with storing and absorbing iron. Your body also requires vitamin C to form cartilage, bone collagen, blood vessels, and muscles. In addition, vitamin C helps the body to heal.
10. Promoting Gut Health
The dietary fiber contained in one medium orange can help with warding off or easing constipation. Eating oranges can promote gut health, regular bowel movement, control blood sugar levels, and lower cholesterol. The fiber content makes you feel full for a longer period which means you will be less likely to snack in between and maintain a healthy weight. Subsequently, you will reduce the chance of developing heart disease, some types of cancers, and diabetes.
Conclusion
As you can see, there are many reasons why oranges are good for you. Not only are they packed with beneficial vitamin C, but they also offer plenty of other health benefits. So go ahead and add them to your smoothies or eat them whole.
Sending you much love, light, and wholesome goodness!
Anthea