The orange probably originated in China and southern Asia. During the 15th century, world explorers brought the fruit to Europe, where it became popular for medicinal applications and then for consumption. Today, the orange is the most popular fruit in the world. The United States grows more oranges than any other country, distributing 17 billion pounds annually.
Nutritional Content
The orange is a concentrated source of nutrients. The fruit provides 3.4 g of fiber, approximately 12 percent of the amount needed daily. Fiber lowers cholesterol and regulates the digestive system. An orange also provides 65 calories, 238 mg of potassium and 317 IU of vitamin A. One orange provides between 66 and 80 percent of the recommended daily amount of vitamin C.
Kidney Stone Prevention
Consuming a glass of orange juice daily prevents the formation of kidney stones, according to a 2006 study by researchers at UT Southwestern Medical Center. The researchers found that citrate, an ingredient in oranges, prevents the crystallization of minerals, such as calcium oxalate, and other chemicals, such as uric acid, that cause kidney stones.
Daily Produce Requirement
Consuming an orange helps meet the USDA's daily produce recommendation. The fruits and vegetables needed for health vary based on a person's age, weight and height, but the average number needed is five to seven servings. Consuming a variety of colors of produce gives you a wide range of phytochemicals and other nutrients needed for health. Orange fruits and vegetables, such as the orange, contain high levels of beta-carotene that the body converts to vitamin A. The vitamin supports skin and eye health.
Adverse Reactions
An orange tree's blossoms trigger allergic reactions in some people. The orange peel contains essential oils that sometimes cause skin reactions, such as dermatitis. People who eat large quantities of oranges may experience irritation around the mouth and blistering between the fingers from peeling the oranges.
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