Citrus fruits are more than refreshing
They’re power-packed with nutrients that provide a myriad of health benefits. They are the super heroes of fruit. Studies have shown that the healthy properties within citrus lowers cholesterol, reduces the risk of many cancers, diabetes, rheumatoid arthritis, and kidney stones. Can you imagine the market for a pill that could do everything an orange, tangerine or grapefruit can do?
The whole fruit and nothing but the fruit
It’s totally worth the time and effort it takes to cut or peel an orange. Research has shown that the benefits come from the whole fruit; fiber from the pulp improves digestion and lowers cholesterol, antioxidants in the juice and even more in the peel promote healing, protect against inflammation and certain cancers. So, you see, drinking a glass of EmergenC is not going to give you the same results. Plus, there’s probably a lot more good things going on in a whole piece of fruit than science has found. Every day, new research shows other benefits.
Natural is better
The brighter the skin, the more you should wash before using if you intend to use the peel. Some are waxed or dipped in chemicals to improve their appearance. There’s also evidence that eating organic fruit will provide a higher percentage of the vitamins than conventional. One thing I do know from experience, an organically grown orange that is harvested close to home sure tastes better!
Simple ways to enjoy them every day
~ Sauté onions and ginger, and then add orange juice. Use this liquid as a sauce for chicken or fish
~ Toss together orange segments, snap peas, jicama with olive oil & white wine vinegar for a refreshing salad
~ Simmer sweet potatoes, winter squash and orange segments in orange juice
~ Mix cilantro, olive oil, lime, orange juice, garlic together in a blender to make a great marinade
~ Add a wedge of lemon or orange to your water
~ Toss together orange segments and avocado slices together
~ Marinate your fish in lemon juice with onions, cilantro and garlic
~ Add a whole orange to your protein drink..yes, the peel too. Cut off the ends with the stem
~ Squeeze lemon into your soup broth to give it a tangy flavor
~ A beauty tip! The pulp left over after juicing is excellent for the skin
~ And a first aid tip! The pulp takes the pain away from insect bites too
Share the goodness of San Diego citrus this year with a gift basket! We’ve got the yummiest ones right here.
Health, happiness & good eating from our family to yours