Citrus is a class of fruits that includes oranges, lemons, limes and grapefruit, as well as many more varieties and hybrids. They are not only good for their favor and bright color, they can also render so many health benefits to your body. They have a bunch of health benefits, from boosting immunity to fighting cancer.
Here are 7 great reasons to eat citrus fruits.
1. Powerful antioxidant
Citrus fruits contain antioxidants that, defend the body from internal damage and diseases. Antioxidants have the ability to fight against harmful radicals, thus preventing conditions such as heart diseases, diabetes and also preventing cancer from developing inside your body. Antioxidants also prevent inflammation in your body making you healthier and stronger.
You can gain up to 5 times more antioxidants by consuming freshly squeezed oranges, lime etc.
2. They’re packed with potassium
Bananas aren’t the only fruit rich in potassium. Citrus is also a great source of potassium, which is important for fluid regulation, mineral balance and muscle contraction. Potassium also works to counter-regulate the amount of salt in your diet by helping your body flush out sodium. By eating plenty of potassium-rich foods, you can help to lower your risk of stroke as well as reduce your risk of heart diseases.
3. They are a good source of fiber
Citrus fruits are packed with fiber which helps to lower cholesterol. To absorb maximum nutrients, you should eat citrus fruits raw and not in juice form. The fiber from the fruit slows down digestion, so that your body can fully absorb the nutrients. With a constant influx of fiber, your body will maintain stable blood sugar levels and lower your risk of contracting certain diseases.
4. Citrus fruits are low in calories
Citrus fruits are low in calories, making them a good choice for people seeking to lose or maintain their weight.
5. Citrus fruits help to fight cold
Citrus fruits are an excellent source of vitamin C which produces the collagen that improves your skin’s elasticity and structure and also strengthens your immune system. High doses of vitamin C have been studied to reduce the effect of cold symptoms. Lemons also detox the body off any impurity and supports proper digestion. You can squeeze up some lemon into your tea or warm water to fill you up on vitamin C, heal up your cold and boost your immune system.
6. They are hydrating
Citrus fruits have high water content. Eating plenty of water-rich foods such as citrus can help you to stay hydrated, which is important for quenching your thirst as well as helping you consume to enough fluids throughout the day. This will help to prevent dehydration and help the body’s systems to function properly.
7. Skin and hair enhancer
Citrus fruits make you feel good and look even better. Citric acid kills bacteria on the skin, while leaving it fresh and clean. Lemon juice acts as a natural toner for the skin.You can mix one part of freshly squeezed lemon to half part of tea tree or coconut oil and 2 parts of clean water to create your own toner.
Citrus fruits make your skin glow while, battling wrinkles and smoothing the skin’s surface, lemon for example, fights acne and brightens the face. Citrus fruit juice can also combat dry, damaged hair and stimulate hair growth.
Image Courtesy by: thehealthsite.com, cdnds.net
