About Oranges

Oranges were first mentioned in Chinese literature ~300 BC.  Most of the oranges today are cultivated in Brazil and the United States.

Nutrition Benefits of Oranges

Oranges are well known as a good source of Vitamin C.  They also contain a wide range of phytochemicals (antioxidants) including beta-carotene, lutein, flavonoids, anthocyanins, polyphenols, and others.

Some additional research has been linking oranges to lowing blood pressure and cholesterol.  This research is based on a phytonutrient called, “herperidin”, which is found in the peel and white pulp of the orange.  Orange Juice essentially removes all the herperidin from the orange during processing.

Other research has shown some links between oranges and ulcer prevention, anti-cancer, kidney stone prevention, respiratory health, and rheumatoid arthritis.

Smoothie Tip

Keep as much of the white pulp around the orange as possible when doing smoothies to maximize the nutrition value of the smoothie.