When winter comes around, there is nothing better than some good ‘ol citrus. Not only do these seasonal fruits keep well, they are brimming with good-for-you nutrients that help keep us healthy especially during these colder months when we are more prone to getting sick. These are the top 5 benefits that oranges provide us:
1. Immunity-Boosting
Citrus is easily a super-star among winter produce. Perhaps the most noteworthy benefit of citrus is its immunity-boosting properties. One serving provides nearly 100% of your daily vitamin C intake, a nutrient that has been shown to shorten the duration of an existing cold.
2. Rich in Cholesterol-Lowering Soluble Fiber
Citrus is a significant source of soluble fiber which helps lower cholesterol to healthy levels and keep blood sugar levels from rising too high after eating (providing an even-keeled energy).
3. Rich in Vitamin C and Antioxidants
Vitamin C is a power antioxidant with the ability to scavenge free radicals in the body and fight off potential damage to DNA which translates into potentially preventing onset of cancers. Flavanones, phytonutrients found almost exclusively in citrus, are widely coveted for their lipid lowering effects and anti-inflammatory properties.
4. Up-Regulate Skin Collagen Production
Citrus is rich in Vitamin C which is needed to produce collagen, a protein that promotes skin structure and elasticity.
5. Aid Plant-Based Iron Absorption
Citrus is a vegetarian’s best friend when it comes to the precious nutrient, iron. Vitamin C has the ability to prevent formation of insoluble and unabsorbable iron compounds and aid bioavailability of iron for our use. This is particularly important since many plant-based foods (that many vegetarians rely on) contain antinutrients like phytic acid that can chelate iron and create insoluble complexes that are excreted from the body intact and may contribute to mineral deficiencies longterm. Vitamin C (ascorbic acid) also has the ability to reduce iron to it’s ferrous form making it easier for your body to absorb and utilize. This again is important for individuals who are concerned about iron intake and who don’t consume animal products (which contain heme iron– the most readily utilized by the body).
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