Health Benefits of Oranges

Oranges are some very popular fruits among North Americans and Europeans. Orange juice in particular is pretty common and massively consumed. Americans drinks about 2.5 times more orange juice than apple juice. But have you ever thought what exactly the health benefits of oranges are?
One orange contains all the daily requirements of Vitamin C. It is rich in fiber, folate, calcium and vitamin B6. So, we could say that oranges are packed with nutrients…but wait, there’s more.

Here’s a list of top 13 health benefits of oranges:

1. Oranges are rich in fibers

The fibers in oranges are good for the digestive system and relieving constipation. Fibers also reduce cholesterol which is helpful in preventing atherosclerosis. Fibers are also good in keeping the blood sugar levels in control. So, fibers in oranges are definitely in the list of top health benefits of oranges.

2. Cardiovascular health

The high content of Vitamin C, flavonoids and phyto-nutrients in citrus fruits reduce the risk of heart disease.

3. Blood pressure

Magnesium and a flavonoid called hesperidin in oranges help regulate high blood pressure.

4. Blood and oxygen

Oranges are rich in Iron and Vitamin B6, essential in the production of red cells in the blood, which carry oxygen from lungs to cells. Oranges also help prevent lung cancer.

5. Bones and teeth

Oranges are also rich in calcium, associated with a healthy bone structure and teeth.

6. Skin health

Skin health is one of the most important health benefits of oranges. Antioxidants in oranges protect the skin from cell damage and free radicals, having anti-aging actions.

7. Lower cholesterol

Besides the fiber intake, oranges also help in reducing cholesterol through synephrine, an alkaloid found in orange’s peel. Antioxidants also contribute to the reduction of cholesterol.

8. Folate intake

One orange provides about 10% of the necessary daily folate intake. Folic acid is helpful in skin health and brain development.

9. Immune system

Vitamin C stimulates the production of white cells in our body, thus improving the immune system.

10. Kidney health

A lot of people don’t know that among the top health benefits of oranges is also kidney health. Regular consumption of oranges significantly can significantly reduce the risk of developing kidney stones.

11. Prevent ulcer

Vitamin C is efficient in preventing stomach ulcer.

12. Viral infections

Mostly due to the abundance of the flavonoid polyphenols, oranges protects against viral infections. So, try to eat as much oranges in the flu season (like now)!

13. Preventing other diseases

Oranges are helpful in preventing several other diseases, like: arthritis, asthma, bronchitis, tuberculosis, pneumonia, rheumatism and diabetes.