When it comes to our health, nothing could benefit us more than citrus. These fruits are rich in antioxidants and vitamin C, both of which are great for our health. Vitamin C is responsible for protecting us from infections, allergies and also helps in wound healing.
What fruits to choose from?
The fruit aisle at the grocery store can be overwhelming. Everywhere you look, there is a new type to try and they all claim to be the best for your health. Since we spend so much time eating these delicious fruits, it is important that we know exactly what they do for our bodies.
Top 8 Citrus Fruits That are Great for Health
Citrus fruits are without a doubt one of the most prominent superfoods that have been around for centuries. They are loaded with vitamin C which is great for the immune system, calcium for healthy bones and teeth, the pulp can be used to make jelly, juice, or jam.
As for us, we just love adding oranges, lemons, and limes to my salads, they taste great with a little feta cheese. Citrus fruits are also an excellent source of fiber, potassium, and aid indigestion.
Here is the list of the top 8 citrus fruits that are great for your overall health.
1. Clementines
Clementines are believed to be a cross between mandarins and oranges, according to the National Center for Biotechnology Information (NCBI). They are small with easy-to-peel skin that contains 11 essential nutrients per 100 grams.
The most abundant are dietary fiber, vitamin C, folic acid, and potassium. Folate can help reduce the risk of cancer, heart disease, and stroke, while potassium regulates blood pressure.
2. Grapefruit
Grapefruits are known for their sweet and tangy taste. They are loaded with vitamin A, which is great for your eyesight and preventing macular degeneration. The fruit also contains lycopene, which acts as an antioxidant by fighting free radicals in the body.
This powerful phytonutrient can help reduce the risks of cancer, heart disease, and stroke. Despite being high in sugar, grapefruits have a low glycemic index and can be a good snack for diabetics.
3. Oranges
Oranges are a great source of vitamin C and dietary fiber. An orange provides 100 percent of the recommended daily allowance of vitamin C, which keeps your immune system strong and helps your body absorb iron. Dietary fiber can help lower cholesterol and regulate bowel function, thus preventing constipation.
Oranges contain antioxidants called flavonoids, which reduce inflammation and can protect against cancer, heart disease, and diabetes. Look for oranges with brightly colored rinds that are firm to the touch; these will be the sweetest and freshest.
4. Kumquats
Kumquats are unique citrus fruits that often look like small oval-shaped oranges. They are native to China and can be eaten whole, including the skin and seeds. Just one kumquat has 10 percent of your daily value for vitamin C and 3 grams of dietary fiber. Both vitamin C and fiber can help suppress your appetite, making kumquats a great snack for weight loss.
5. Tangerines
Mandarins are small oranges that contain a sweet taste similar to that of a tangerine. They are loaded with vitamin C, folate, and dietary fiber. One tangerine provides 100 percent of your daily value for vitamin C, which is great for your eyes and skin because it acts as an antioxidant by fighting free radicals in the body.
Tangerines also have a low glycemic index and can be a good snack for diabetics. They are easy to peel and contain only 86 calories per 100 grams.
6. Lemons & Limes
Lemons and limes are excellent sources of vitamin C, dietary fiber pectin, calcium, manganese, potassium, thiamine B1, and iron. They also provide protection against Alzheimer’s disease, arthritis pain, and eye disorders.
Both lemons and limes aid digestion and add great flavor to salads or other dishes you make at home. They can also be used as a natural remedy for colds and coughs.
7. Pomelos
Grapefruit is rich in antioxidants that protect your body from the damaging effects of free radicals. Pummelos also provides protection against heart disease, reduces inflammation and pain caused by arthritis. These fruits are the largest of the citrus fruits and offer numerous benefits for the whole family.
8. Pineapples
Pineapples contain the enzyme bromelain which is helpful in relieving pain and swelling, as well as improving digestion. These fruits prevent liver damage due to their anti-inflammatory properties. It also contains thiamine B1, manganese, and vitamin C. They also provide protection against cancer and eye disorders.
All of these fruits are great when it comes to improving health and life expectancy. And the best thing about them is that you can eat them in any form and you can also add them to your salads.
