Although many people associate oranges primarily with fresh juice, experts suggest that it's healthier to eat them whole, because that's how you get all the vitamins, minerals and dietary fiber they contain.
Their extremely rich vitamin and mineral content is a good enough reason to make oranges a regular dish on the table.
But why is it important to eat oranges every day in winter?
1. To strengthen the immune system
Oranges are rich in vitamin C – one fruit contains about 50 mg of it. Vitamin C strengthens the immune system and can shorten the duration of a cold. In addition, this vitamin acts as an antioxidant that promotes the production of white blood cells and has antiviral and antiseptic properties.
2. To control your body's weight
In winter, we inevitably start eating more, which can lead to weight gain. Oranges, like tomatoes, cucumbers or watermelons, contain a lot of liquid – more than 80%. 100 g of pulp of this fruit contains only 43 calories, but thanks to fiber, a snack of one orange is hearty, which allows you to reduce the total daily calorie intake and improve the digestive system.
3. To reduce the risk of heart disease
The cause of heart disease in elderly people is the clogging of blood vessels and arteries. Oranges are very rich in fiber and antioxidants. They play an important role in controlling cholesterol levels, increase the elasticity of blood vessels and normalize blood pressure. All these are very good for the cardiovascular system and prevent clogging and narrowing of arteries.
4. To benefit from their anti-inflammatory properties
Due to their rich content of antioxidants, vitamins and minerals, oranges reduce overall inflammation in tissues, which not only reduces the risk of chronic diseases and cancer, but also helps protect the body from infections and viruses.
5. To protect your liver
Vitamin A found in oranges protects the liver from damage, stimulates its functions, helps to eliminate toxins, and promotes the synthesis of liver cells and enzymes. It also reduces inflammation, which protects against liver diseases. The beneficial effects of oranges on the liver are especially important during the winter holidays, when heavy eating and drinking negatively affect it.
6. To improve eye health
As people age, their vision begins to deteriorate, but that's not the worst problem. There's also an increased chance of developing yellow spot degeneration, a condition that can lead to partial vision loss or blindness. A 15-year study found that eating oranges regularly can reduce the risk of developing yellow spot degeneration by 60%.
7. To keep your skin looking young
The high water content of oranges helps maintain hydration, which is so important in winter. In addition, oranges are rich in vitamin C, a powerful antioxidant that helps fight free radicals, maintain healthy skin and promote the production of collagen, which is essential for skin elasticity and firmness.
What's more! If you eat an orange a day, after a while you can achieve a rejuvenating effect – the skin will become fresher.
8. To make you happier
Orange, more specifically its flavor, helps fight stress by relieving it. In addition, vitamin C stimulates the production of the happiness hormone serotonin. Therefore, oranges also improve your emotional well-being.
No matter how tasty and healthy oranges are, however, they should not be overused. One fruit a day is the optimal dose to get all the vitamins, minerals and antioxidants you need without risking an unwanted reaction from your body.
And, of course, don't forget to eat other fruits. Each fruit is healthy and delicious in its own way.