We’re all about helping you add more wonderful fruit, veggies and superfoods to your diet, but sometimes, it’s worth remembering that there’s a lot of value in the basics. Take ORANGES for instance: They’re like that reliable friend who always shows up, brings snacks, and never makes a fuss. Meanwhile, avocados are out here being glorified on toast, and kale’s still trying to convince us it tastes good.
So let’s give this citrusy legend its moment in the sun!
1. Vitamin C
We all know that oranges are high in Vit C – which is great for immune function – but did you know that the Vit C also helps our bodies to absorb iron? And iron enables the body to use oxygen better, lessening fatigue and improving concentration.
Thanks to their vitamin C content and antioxidant powers, oranges can help your skin look brighter, firmer, and less like you’ve been sleeping on sandpaper.
2. Fibre
Oranges have fibre. And yes, we’re talking about the kind that helps you stay, shall we say… (no, let’s not say). Eating an orange a day can help keep your digestion smooth and drama-free. It’s nature’s gentle nudge to your intestines.
3. Heart Health
Oranges contain flavonoids, potassium, and fibre, all of which play a role in keeping your heart happy and ticking like a Swiss watch. Potassium helps control blood pressure, fibre lowers cholesterol, and flavonoids are basically the tiny warriors fighting inflammation and plaque.
Not only does this mean reduced oxidative stress (and therefore a reduced risk of diabetes, heart disease, and certain cancers), but interestingly a study of 82,000 women in 2018 found that a high flavonoid intake also lowered the risk of depression, especially among older women.
4. Cognitive Boost
A study published in 2015 found that a high intake of citrus juice improved cognitive function in older adults. And at the other end of the scale, another study on healthy young adults found that drinking moderate quantities of citrus juice could enhance blood flow to the brain. Now where did I put my phone?
5. Healthy Snack
Oranges are sweet, satisfying, and—even better —low in calories. You can snack guilt-free, feeling smug about peeling it in public without squirting juice in your eye (you’ll only do that once, trust me).
And finally, here’s a zesty little historical nugget for you: In the 17th century, European aristocrats didn’t just eat oranges—they wore them. Wealthy people carried around special devices called pomanders, which were perforated metal balls filled with dried oranges, cloves, and other spices. These were basically the medieval version of air fresheners, used to mask the stench of, well… other medieval things. A time when oranges were so exotic and expensive, they were more perfume than produce!