Oranges, the delightful summer fruit with a kick. With health benefits extending beyond 80% of your daily dose of Vitamin C, this energizing fruit is worth a second glance. Let’s look at five of the wonderful things an orange a day can do for you!
- 1. Hydrating with the sun’s fruit
Drinking water is easily one of the best ways to improve your overall health. In fact, it is recommended the average person get between 2.5 to 3.5 liters a day! But it need not come as a drink alone. Up to 20% of your daily water intake may come from food. Medium size oranges contain about half a cup of water and can help you feel hydrated all day.
- 2. Helpful fiber
In addition to water, fiber is a commonly missed nutrient in the modern diet. On average oranges contain three grams of fiber, which is roughly 12% of an individual’s RDA. Moreover, two of those grams are soluble fiber, which has been shown to lower cholesterol and improve blood circulation. Fiber also does wonders for the digestive system, reducing bloating and keeping things moving regularly.
- 3. Vitamins and minerals
As well as Vitamin C, oranges provide a healthy dose of several other key vitamins and minerals. Two, in particular, are potassium and folate, which help to protect against high blood pressure and depression, respectively. Potassium can also help reduce water retention and bloating in individuals. Worth mentioning, too, are those vitamins and minerals in slightly lower, but still prevalent concentration: calcium, magnesium, and both A and B vitamins.
- 4. Antioxidants
As a member of the citrus family, oranges are loaded with immune loving antioxidant flavinoids. These biochemical superstars act with anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and antibacterial properties. Not only does this make fighting off a cold easier, but it also improves our overall mental health and even promotes healthy weight loss.
- 5. Orange peels
Whether raw or in herbal teas, orange peels can provide numerous health benefits. In particular, they reduce a cell’s ability to undergo apoptosis, inhibiting cancer cell formation. Just be sure to opt for a pesticide-free orange and wash it before consumption!
