Fruit has been recognized as a good source of vitamins and minerals, and for their role in preventing vitamin C and vitamin A deficiencies. People who eat fruit as part of an overall healthy diet generally have a reduced risk of chronic diseases. USDA's MyPlate encourages making half your plate fruits and vegetables for healthy eating. Fruit are important sources of many nutrients, including potassium, fiber, vitamin C and folate (folic acid).
Weight loss
The remaining fiber in the citrus insoluble, increases the amount of gastrointestinal tract and helps us stay balanced, Bazilian added. Foods that contain fiber like citrus also keep us feeling full and satisfy longer than low-fiber foods, making them an excellent snack for weight loss.
Good for the heart
Citrus seeds can promote cardiovascular health, according to Keri Gans, a nutritionist in New York and author of "Small Changes in Diet."
Research published in the Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry shows that red grapefruit is rich in antioxidants that help reduce "bad" LDL cholesterol as well as triglyceride levels. Vitamin C is also associated with a decreased risk of heart disease.
However, if you are taking cholesterol lowering statins, do not eat grapefruit, as they can interfere with these medications.
Low blood glucose index
Citrus fruits have a relatively low glycemic index, meaning they will not increase blood sugar as much as other foods.
Reduce the incubation period of the cold
The citrus fruit provides a very healthy amount of vitamin C (51 mg in oranges, 38 mg in grapefruit, and 30 mg in lemon). And although vitamin C can not prevent colds, research has shown that it can reduce the duration and severity of the disease, according to Marisa Moore, a spokeswoman for the American College of Nutrition and Diet. .
Studies have shown that vitamins can help shorten the duration of symptoms by about a day - this can make a big difference when you feel unwell.
Contains potassium
When you hear "potassium", you can think of bananas. However, citrus is also a very important mineral supply for regulating fluid, mineral balance and muscle contraction. Potassium also works to combat salt intake in the diet by helping the body to flush out sodium.
Eating more foods rich in potassium, they can reduce the risk of stroke by as much as 21 percent, while reducing the risk of heart disease.
Helps to absorb other nutrients
Bazilian adds citrus to the food plate that can help you get more out of the foods you eat. Vitamin C increases the viability of catechins, antioxidants in green tea.
Citrus also helps the body absorb iron, which is important for the immune system and helps the body to produce red blood cells. Bazilian recommends pairing citrus with iron-rich foods such as green leafy vegetables, fish, poultry and meat to maximize their nutritional benefits.
Moisturizing
Like citrus, watermelon and tomatoes, citrus fruit has a high content of water (87% orange and 88% orange). Eating more water-rich foods like citrus can help you keep water, which is important to quench your thirst as well as helping you consume enough fluid during the day to prevent dehydration and help your body's system function. normal. Water-rich foods also help fill, and less calories.
Skin is youthful
Another reason to eat more vitamin C? It can benefit your skin, says Bazilian. Vitamin C plays an important role in the production of collagen, so it can help keep the skin looking soft and smooth.