How Do Oranges Help Your Body?

Oranges Deliver Vitamin C

The best known benefit of fresh oranges is their vitamin C content. One orange provides 70 mg of vitamin C, which, according to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, helps fight fatigue, promotes wound healing, helps maintain the health of the circulatory system and promotes strong bones and teeth. Vitamin C is also a potent antioxidant, which fights off damage that is imposed upon the body by toxins.

Heart Protection

The Commonwealth Scientific and Industrialized Research Organization in Australia released a report that examined numerous studies on the health benefits of citrus fruit on the body. The report showed that folate and potassium, both found in oranges, help lower the risk of heart disease and stroke. In fact, the report states that consuming one citrus fruit or orange per day can reduce stroke risk by almost 20 percent.

Fiber Protection

Fiber doesn't just make you feel full and prevent constipation. According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, dietary fiber can help prevent the onset of diabetes, and manage diabetes if you already have it. It also helps control and lower levels of blood cholesterol. According to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, a medium orange has about 3 grams of fiber. UMMC's report also states that fiber protects against high blood pressure, cancer and heart disease.

Keep Inflammation Away

The Mayo Clinic posted a report on chronic inflammation that links it to cardiovascular disease, high blood pressure, arthritis and even gum disease. Eating oranges and drinking orange juice can help fight inflammation. A study released in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition states that consuming one glass of orange juice daily can reduce the risk of developing disorders caused by inflammation.
So the next time that you want a snack that will fill you up, lower your cholesterol, fight heart disease, inflammation and cancer, grab an orange.

References

Article reviewed by Renee Peterson Last updated on: Mar 28, 2011

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