Summer is a time for vacation, long drives, lazy trips, and other outdoor activities. However, it also brings different seasonal illnesses like sunburn, diarrhea, and heatstroke due to the heat that can also make us easily dehydrated. That is why it is important to include some citrus fruit like oranges on our diet during this summer season. Adding a water-rich fruit during summer helps us keep hydrated and it can make us feel fresh. Oranges are good source of Vitamin C which can boost your immune system. The acidic content of the fruit will help to flush out toxins from the bowel tract. It also contains a high amount of dietary fiber which can relieve constipation that is prone during summer season. The fruit is also rich in antioxidants and flavonoids which are known to have detoxifying and antibiotic properties. These are effective agents that can heal peptic ulcers. Orange juice is a healthy alternative to carbonated drinks. It will keep you hydrated and provide essential minerals and vitamins at the same time.
Aside from Vitamin C, it also provides several health benefits;
- Oranges are antioxidants –contain flavonoid antioxidants that provide anti-inflammatory, antiviral, and antimicrobial benefits to the body. The higher intake of flavonoids can lower the risk of depression.
- Improves cognitive function – study shows that higher intake of citrus fruit like oranges can improve the cognitive functions among adults.
- Maintain muscle mass – the potassium and folate content of the oranges can support proper heart function and muscle contraction. Folate also helps to protect against depression and memory problem.
- Helps fight cancer – vitamin C helps to lower the risk of cancer. Studies show that the high amount of vitamin C, folic acid, and antioxidants in oranges can prevent DNA mutation, therefore lowering the risk of cancer.
Oranges are good source of Vitamin C and other nutrients that can make our body healthy. Keep ourselves hydrated especially during summer to prevent serious health problems. Drinking enough water and eating the right amount of oranges along with other hydration foods can ensure the normal supply of water inside our body. It’s time for us to beat the heat!
NOI Kimberly Tanador, RND
Reference:
Oranges for Summer
https://www.webmd.com/food-recipes/health-benefits-oranges
Oranges: Nutrition, health benefits & risks
By, Ailsa Harvey
https://www.livescience.com/45057-oranges-nutrition-facts.html
7 Health Benefits of Oranges
