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Citrus fruits such as oranges, lemons, tangerines and grapefruit are not only wonderfully refreshing, but also have a lot of health benefits. After all, they are rich in essential nutrients, which your body needs to function optimally. In this article we list all the benefits of citrus fruits for your health and well-being.
Read also: How healthy are tangerines?
Why are citrus fruits so healthy?
1. Strengthen your immune system with vitamin C
One of the most well-known properties of citrus fruits is their high dose of vitamin C. This powerful antioxidant is crucial for strengthening your immune system and protecting your body from harmful pathogens. So, adding an orange or a glass of freshly squeezed lemon juice to your diet every day can help keep colds and flu at bay. Of course it’s not a panacea either. A study by Cochrane, an international institute that researches health, shows that the extra dose of vitamin C will mainly affect the duration of your cold and will not help prevent the disease.
Read also: Why vitamin C is so important
2. Healthy heart function
Citrus fruits also contain potassium, an electrolyte that is beneficial for your heart health. Potassium helps regulate blood pressure and reduces the risk of heart disease. By eating citrus fruits regularly, you can give your heart a helping hand and keep your cardiovascular system in tip-top shape.
Read also: Heart-friendly food: which products are good for the heart and blood vessels?
3. Helps you maintain your weight
Citrus fruits can also be a valuable ally if you want to watch your weight. They are generally low in calories and high in fiber, which gives a long-lasting feeling of satiety. So, adding citrus fruits to your meals can help control your appetite and limit unhealthy snacking.
Read also: Are smoothies as healthy as a piece of fruit?
4. Radiant skin and healthy hair
Thanks to the high vitamin C content, citrus fruits contribute to the production of collagen, a protein that keeps the skin firm and youthful. In addition, these fruits contain antioxidants that fight free radicals – molecules that break down cells and cause wrinkles – thus contributing to radiant and healthy skin. The nutrients in citrus fruits can also stimulate hair growth and give your locks a natural shine.
Read also: What does a collagen supplement do for our skin?
5. Good Digestion
High-fiber foods are essential for digestive health, and citrus fruits are no exception. The fiber promotes healthy bowel function and can help prevent digestive problems such as target=”_blank”>constipation.
Also read: 10 possible causes of a swollen belly
6. Natural energy boost
If you’re in need of a natural energy boost, citrus fruits are the perfect choice. Instead of reaching for caffeinated drinks or sugary snacks, opt for a juicy orange or a refreshing grapefruit. The natural sugars and vitamins in the citrus fruits will boost your energy levels without the ill effects of a sugar spike. So only benefits.
7. Improved nutrient absorption
Finally, citrus fruits can also be beneficial to better absorb the nutrients from your diet. Vitamin C is known to promote the absorption of iron from plant sources. So, for example, if you eat a spinach salad with a little lemon juice on top, your body can get more iron from the spinach.
Read also: What are the symptoms and consequences of an iron deficiency?
This article was partly created with the help of ChatGPT.
Last updated: August 2023
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2023-08-12 20:23:56
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