Many of us consume oranges regularly for their known benefits associated with vitamin C. However, oranges have many other significant benefits beyond just being a fruit that helps strengthen immunity. The website "Vegetarian Times" has identified 5 major benefits of oranges that may not be widely known and are not solely related to obtaining "vitamin C."
**Heart Health**
Consuming oranges and orange juice is linked to numerous heart health benefits, thanks to the nutrients they naturally contain. There are two types of flavonoids found in oranges, hesperidin and naringenin, which are responsible for many amazing benefits of eating oranges. Studies show that among women, higher intake of flavonoid compounds is associated with a lower risk of coronary heart disease and stroke.
**Immunity**
Oranges naturally contain carotenoids like beta-carotene and beta-cryptoxanthin, which support immune health. Of course, "vitamin C" helps stimulate the production of white blood cells, which can help fight infections in the body.
**Skin Health**
Oranges can help keep skin fresh in a natural way. Support comes from vitamin C, which promotes collagen production, and the carotenoids that fight harmful radicals for the skin, providing nutrient support from the inside out.
**Inflammation**
Chronic inflammation is linked to several adverse outcomes, including increased risk of certain types of cancer, stroke, and type 2 diabetes. Oranges are among the foods that may help combat this condition. The flavonoid hesperidin found in oranges and orange juice may play a role in this anti-inflammatory action.
**Orange Peel**
For maximum benefit, orange peel offers tremendous advantages. Incorporating orange peel into your diet can provide additional health benefits since this part of the fruit is rich in nutrients such as vitamin C, fiber, and calcium. Additionally, the peels are a rich source of "d-limonene," a compound with unique anti-inflammatory and anti-cancer benefits.