7 Health Reasons to Eat Oranges Now
Oranges are the crowning jewel of winter. Bright, tangy, and bursting with nutrients, this beloved fruit is best known for its high vitamin C content. But did you realize that oranges are also a great source of vitamin A, B vitamins (including pantothenic acid and folate), calcium, copper, potassium, and fiber?
Most oranges reach their peak season in January and February. (Valenica oranges are an exception — they are best March through September.) So now is the time to enjoy this superfruit! Here are 7 reasons to add more oranges to your diet:
1. Oranges Support Immune Function and Healthy Collagen Production
One of the primary health benefits of oranges is their remarkable vitamin C content. A powerful antioxidant, vitamin C plays a crucial role in supporting the immune system and fighting off infections. It has been shown in studies to enhance the production of white blood cells, which handle fighting off harmful bacteria and viruses.
Furthermore, vitamin C acts as an antioxidant, protecting the body's cells from damage caused by free radicals. This antioxidant activity not only supports overall health but also helps reduce the risk of chronic diseases such as heart disease and certain types of cancer.
A lesser-known benefit of vitamin C is collagen synthesis. When you consume foods rich in vitamin C or take supplements, your body uses this nutrient to convert proline and lysine, amino acids, into collagen. This vitamin also acts as a cofactor for enzymes involved in collagen synthesis.
Without sufficient vitamin C, collagen production is impaired, and your body is unable to repair and replace damaged collagen fibers. This can lead to a breakdown in the structure of your skin, resulting in dullness, fine lines, and a loss of elasticity.
To reap the benefits of oranges, it is recommended to consume them fresh rather than in juice form. Fresh oranges have more fiber and are less processed, ensuring that you obtain the maximum amount of vitamin C and other beneficial compounds.
2. Oranges Are Packed with Key Antioxidants
Oranges are packed with antioxidants, which help protect the body against oxidative stress and inflammation. They work by neutralizing harmful free radicals, unstable molecules that can damage cells and contribute to the development of chronic diseases.
One of the key antioxidants found in oranges is hesperidin, a flavonoid that has been shown to have anti-inflammatory effects.
Oranges also have other antioxidants such as beta-carotene, lutein, and zeaxanthin, which have been linked to improved eye health, as they help protect against age-related macular degeneration and cataracts.
3. Oranges Protect the Heart
Oranges are rich in potassium, a mineral that helps regulate blood pressure and counteracts the effects of sodium in the body — both of which are essential for cardiovascular wellness. High blood pressure, for example, puts strain on your arteries and heart.
Potassium also supports proper heart rhythm and helps prevent the development of cardiovascular diseases such as heart attacks and strokes.
Additionally, the soluble fiber called pectin found in oranges can contribute to lower cholesterol levels. Pectin binds to cholesterol in the digestive tract, preventing its absorption into the bloodstream. This mechanism can help reduce the risk of heart disease and improve overall cardiovascular health.
4. Oranges Promote Digestive Health
The high fiber content in oranges, both soluble and insoluble, aids in maintaining regular bowel movements and preventing constipation.
The soluble fiber in oranges, such as pectin, acts as a prebiotic, providing nourishment for beneficial gut bacteria. These bacteria help break down food, absorb nutrients, and support a healthy gut environment. This translates to improved digestion and nutrient absorption.
Oranges also have natural enzymes that stimulate digestive juice production, enhancing the digestive process. These enzymes promote the breakdown of food and facilitate nutrient absorption.
5. Oranges Improve Skin Health
In addition to their internal health benefits, oranges can also contribute to improved skin health. Oranges are rich in antioxidants, such as vitamin C, which help combat free radicals and protect the skin against oxidative stress and damage.
The antioxidant properties of oranges can help reduce the signs of aging, including wrinkles, fine lines, and age spots. And as mentioned above, vitamin C is essential for collagen production, a protein that keeps the skin firm and elastic. By promoting collagen synthesis, oranges can help support a youthful and radiant complexion.
Also, the high-water content in oranges helps hydrate the skin, keeping it moisturized and supple. Proper hydration is crucial for maintaining healthy skin and preventing dryness and dullness.
6. Oranges Help Enhance Metabolism
If you're looking to manage your weight or boost your metabolism, oranges can be a beneficial addition to your diet. They are low in calories and high in fiber, making them a satisfying and filling snack choice.
The fiber content in oranges helps promote feelings of fullness, reducing the likelihood of overeating. Additionally, the natural sugars in oranges provide a steady release of energy, preventing blood sugar spikes and crashes.
Also, the vitamin C in oranges plays a role in fat metabolism. Vitamin C is involved in the synthesis of carnitine, a compound that helps transport fatty acids into the cells to be used as energy. By supporting this process, oranges can potentially aid in weight management.
7. Orange Pith Is Found in PectaSol for Total-Body Health
PectaSol Modified Citrus Pectin is a natural supplement that comes from the pith of oranges, lemons and limes. It helps rejuvenate every part of your body by revitalizing your cells, defending against pro-aging proteins in the body, and supporting healthy inflammation and immune responses.*
The pectin fiber in PectaSol, the only researched form of Modified Citrus Pectin, is reduced to a tiny, absorbable size, giving it the ability to enter the bloodstream to bind and block galectin-3, a naturally occurring protein in the body that, when overexpressed, can fuel inflammation, speed up aging, fuel abnormal cell behavior, harden tissues and organs, and wreak havoc throughout the body.*
PectaSol
Formulated by award-winning Integrative Medicine expert and best-selling author, Isaac Eliaz, MD, PectaSol is clinically-proven and backed by over 80 studies and 6 patents. It has been recommended by thousands of doctors for 30 years to support inflammation responses, immune health and detoxification.*
Oranges offer a wide range of health benefits. From boosting the immune system and supporting heart health to promoting a healthy digestive system and improving skin health, oranges are a valuable addition to a well-balanced diet.
So, the next time you reach for a snack, consider grabbing an orange and enjoy the multitude of health benefits this vibrant fruit has to offer.