Oranges

Orange are well known for being a good source of vitamin C, and are often recommended for the prevention and treatment of the common cold. However, oranges offer many more health benefits.

Cardiovascular health

The high vitamin C content of oranges is beneficial for cardiovascular health. The antioxidant properties of vitamin C can help to prevent changes in the blood vessels, that could lead to strokes and other vascular problems.

Oranges also contain folic acid, which can help to maintain good cardiovascular health. Folic acid can lower the concentration of the amino acid, homocysteine, high levels of which can damage blood vessels and lead to a heart attack.

The fibre and antioxidants contained in oranges can also help to lower cholesterol.

Digestive health

The fibre content in oranges can help to maintain a healthy digestive system, assisting with issues such as constipation.

The antioxidants in oranges, such as vitamin A and vitamin C, are also beneficial for digestive health. These vitamins can reduce the level of damage caused by eating harmful substances, such as fatty foods or alcohol.

Oranges are also a source of thiamine, which can maintain or improve digestive health for those who have deficiencies that may cause digestive problems.

Healthy skin

The antioxidant properties of oranges make them an excellent food for maintaining healthy skin. The free radicals that can cause wrinkles and general skin ageing can be removed by antioxidants, such as vitamin C.

Vitamin C can also assist in the wound healing process.

The oil found in the skin of oranges can be used as a natural skin moisturiser to keep it looking young. The orange peel can be used as a facial scrub or added to baths.

 

 

Bone health

Oranges are a good source of calcium, which is essential for healthy teeth and bones. Calcium intake is especially important for those who have osteoporosis, or those with a family history of the disease.

Whole oranges are a better source of calcium than orange juice, although some commercial orange juice has extra calcium added.

Cancer prevention

The compound, liminoid, which is found in oranges can help to prevent cancer. It is thought that liminoid can prevent the formation of certain cancers in areas including the mouth, stomach and colon.

The vitamin C contained in oranges can also help to prevent cancer, due to the antioxidant properties of the vitamin. Studies have found a link between high vitamin C intake and low occurrences of certain types of cancer. One orange can contain 100% of the recommended daily allowance of vitamin C.

Eating more oranges

Oranges easily be added to your diet. If you find peeling and eating a whole orange too time consuming, you can cut one or two in half and squeeze out the juices for a refreshing drink.

They can also be added to dishes such as salads and desserts, or used to make sauces for meat dishes, including duck, chicken and salmon.

There are many different ways to enjoy oranges, whether it’s a simple glass of juice or as part of a main meal.