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| fight cell-damaging free radicals that can lead to cancer, dangerous levels of LDL cholesterol, heart disease, and stroke. It also helps fortify the immune system, warding off infection and spurring the healing process. |
| But that's not all. Oranges also contain a variety of other compounds that are believed to have even stronger antioxidant powers. Researchers believe that antioxidant flavonoids such as hesperidin may be up to six times as potent as vitamin C in fighting high cholesterol and other disease risk factors. Hesperidin also has been shown to help stop inflammation without irritating the stomach (as aspirin can). |
| Cancer Protection |
| Many studies show that people who eat more oranges and other citrus fruits have lower rates of stomach cancer. Citrus fruits may help prevent nitrates and nitrites, which are found in smoked meats and other foods, from becoming cancer-causing nitrosamines. |
| Another compound, called limonene, appears to help prevent breast and lung cancers. Researchers believe limonene, which is found in orange and other citrus oils, reduces the growth of tumors and prevents the formation of new tumors. |
| Double Dose of Fiber |
| Oranges are a good source of both soluble and insoluble fibers. Pectin, the soluble fiber that's found mainly in the skin around each orange section and in the peel, helps trap and eliminate cholesterol from the bodyespecially dangerous LDL cholesterol. Try to eat a little of the white part of the orange peel as well as the fruit; it contains half of the fruit's pectin supply. |
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