The Why of Oranges Are Good For You

Did you know an orange has over 170 different phytochemicals and more than 60 flavonoids, many of which have been shown to have anti-inflammatory properties and strong antioxidant effects?

Oranges are highly beneficial for your body. A medium, 2 1/2-inch orange offers lots of vitamins, minerals and fiber, all for a measly 60 calories. While orange juice is also full of nutrients, you'll miss out on fiber, so it is better to consume the whole fruit. Oranges are easy to tote around, since the thick skin protects them from bruising. Toss one in your bag for a quick mid-morning snack, add orange wedges to a grilled chicken salad or find other ways to add more oranges to your diet.

One medium orange (approximately 154 grams) contains 80 calories, 0 grams of fat, 250 milligrams of potassium, 19 grams of carbohydrate (14 grams of sugar and 3 grams of dietary fiber) as well as 1 gram of protein.

One orange provides 130 percent of your vitamin C needs for the day, 2 percent of vitamin A needs, 6 percent of calcium and 0 percent of iron.

Oranges also contain thiamin, riboflavin, niacin, vitamin B-6, folate, pantothenic acid, phosphorus, magnesium, manganese, selenium and copper. Because of their high vitamin C content (over twice the daily need) oranges are associated with boosting the immune system.

Oranges also contain choline, zeaxanthin, and carotenoids.

Choline is an important nutrient found in oranges that helps with sleep, muscle movement, learning and memory. Choline also helps to maintain the structure of cellular membranes, aids in the transmission of nerve impulses, assists in the absorption of fat and reduces chronic inflammation.

Oranges are full of soluble fiber, which is especially beneficial for lowering cholesterol levels. Soluble fiber attracts water in your gut, forming a slow-moving gel. As this gel substance travels through your intestinal tract, it picks up some of the excess cholesterol compounds and pushes them out through fecal waste. Your cholesterol levels will go down over time, decreasing your risk of suffering from heart disease. You need 14 grams of total fiber for every 1,000 calories, explains the Colorado State University Extension website. Having an 1,800-calorie-per-day diet means that you need 16 grams of total fiber. A medium, 2 1/2-inch orange has approximately 3 grams of fiber, more than half of which is soluble fiber.

There it is oranges by the numbers. We think that we need to change the old adage to “an orange a day keeps the doctor away.” Oranges are chock-full of vitamin C. One of the roles of vitamin C is to protect cells by neutralizing free radicals. When free radicals build up in your body, they cling to healthy cells, causing permanent damage.

If you are looking for the perfect wholesome gift for a business associates, family or friends? A quick visit to http://sunburstoranges.com can solve all of your fresh gift giving adventures. We sell only the finest selections and the freshest citrus you can buy.

Presented By:
Sunburst Oranges
180 South “E” Street
Porterville, CA  93257
559-561-3391