Citrus fruits are fruits that belong to the Rutaceae family native to tropical and subtropical regions. These fruits are relatively large, fleshy, juicy, acidic and contain good amounts of citric acid and vitamin C. They are mainly characterized by a rough and bright color that ranges from yellow to orange.
They are amazing fruits that contain healthy nutritional content. These fruits include lemons, oranges, grapefruits, mandarins, leeches etc. Citrus fruits not only do they contain large amounts of vitamin C but are also rich sources of antioxidants, vitamin A and potassium. They are best and healthier substitute to sugary sweets as most citrus fruits are sweet to taste. It is said that probably citrus fruits might have domesticated in southern China and Southeast Asia around 1000 BC, have been introduced by Arab traders in the Mediterranean.
Citrus fruits have become an important agricultural product in the Mediterranean Sea, Southern United States, Mexico and South America. All citrus fruits contain citric acid hence has a sour lemon juice but some citrus fruits, sulfurous acid is overcome by the sweetness of sugar in fruits.
Citrus fruits contain ascorbic acid (vitamin C) which is an important food for health. Since citrus fruits are acid fruits they the best detoxifying and excellent types of foods taken. It is very important to include citrus fruits in your daily diet as they are rich in key vitamins and minerals that enhance immunity and boost energy levels.
They also contain a variety of plant based chemical compounds called phytochemicals that aids warding off various chronic diseases. Some of the nutritional and health benefits that you could acquire from eating citrus fruits as part of a balanced diet is that it helps with weight control, improves immunity system, it is rich in folate and potassium.
Citrus fruits are one of the best food choices for any weight loss program as they are extremely low in calories and high in dietary fibre especially pectin. Pectin slows the intestinal absorption and digestion of food which leads to an increased sense of fullness and reduces the risk of overeating during meals.
Citrus fruits top the list as it contains good amount of folate than other fruits. Folate is an important water soluble vitamin that supports a variety of processes in the body. Most citrus fruits contain substantial amounts of essential mineral potassium as potassium is important for maintaining fluid and electrolyte balance in the body.
This fluid and electrolyte balance is important for proper functioning of the muscles, nerves, kidneys and heart. They are incredible fruits that add additional value to a healthy nutritious diet. They are power packed with full of nutrition and are versatile enough to include in any meal.
Citrus fruits are nutrient dense foods and excellent sources of carbohydrates including dietary fibre and various vitamins and minerals. They are very valuable fruits and we should consume to overcome and prevent micronutrient deficiencies as well as people suffering with obesity and diet related chronic diseases. In addition, citrus fruits are fat free, no sodium and cholesterol free.
Oranges: Oranges have numerous health benefits. They are rich sources in vitamins A and C, flavonoids, antioxidants, calcium, magnesium, potassium, dietary fibre etc.
They are known to have anti-inflammatory, anti-tumour and anti-oxidant properties. Some of the health benefits include, Relieve constipation as they are good source of dietary fibre, Regulates high blood pressure as magnesium helps to maintain blood pressure, The high amount of vitamin C and flavonoids protects against heart diseases, Iron and vitamin B6 in oranges help in purify the blood, Calcium in oranges help in keeping the bones and teeth strong, Beta-carotene, a powerful antioxidant protects the cells from being damage etc.
Lemons: Lemon is one of the super foods that come with a myriad health and cosmetic benefits. Lemons are used widely is used various dishes to season rice, meat and vegetables. Lemon juice adds flavor to tea or even freshen breath. It makes your tea healthier as tea is rich in a class of antioxidants called flavonoids.
Lemon juice is also used to remove stains and odors from clothes and cutting boards. Lemon being a citrus fruit fights against various infections. Some of the health benefits from lemon are: Lemon juice is said to give a amazing glow to the skin. Lemon lowers blood pressure and increases the levels of HDL (good cholesterol).
Few drops of lemon juice added in hot water are believed to clear the digestive system and purifies liver as well. Lemon juice helps in relieving colic pain and gastric problems. Lemon juice is an excellent and traditional treatment for dandruff and greasy hair. Lemon juice helps to prevent and cure osteoarthritis.
The detoxifying properties of citrus fruit can do wonders to purify the body. Having abundant nutritional and medicinal properties found in citrus fruits is an excellent remedy for many diseases that are harmful. The use of this plant is less than essential oils that are an integral part of perfumes and cosmetics are not known.
Do include citrus fruits in your daily diet and enjoy its benefits to stay healthy and fit. You could always reach me at my website for more amazing nutritious and healthy recipes at: www.vahrehvah.com You could also follow this campaign to gain knowledge on some special features and advices from eminent doctors from AAPI (American Association of Physicians of Indian Origin) and also get to know of healthy recipes and diets from popular Chefs that you and your family can relish and enjoy staying fit and strong.
To follow, do click on: https://www.facebook.com/AAPIChildhoodObesity
Enjoy healthy eating and Be Fit. Be Cool!