If you’re looking to lower your cholesterol and improve your overall health, you might want to reconsider tossing out a commonly discarded part of a popular fruit. Family nurse, Eva García, shared on Canal Sur’s Salud al Día program that orange peels offer numerous little-known health benefits.
Often thrown away, the peel surprisingly contains properties that aid digestion, strengthen bones, and help reduce cholesterol. Far from being mere waste, this overlooked part of the fruit is actually a powerful superfood that supports digestive, bone, and heart health, according to abc.es.
Is orange peel good for me?
Oranges are among the most widely consumed citrus fruits worldwide, valued for their high vitamin C, antioxidant, and fibre content. One notable benefit of orange peel is its ability to help regulate digestive pH.
According to García, its alkaline compounds can neutralise stomach acidity when consumed as an infusion, offering relief from conditions like reflux and gastritis. Additionally, orange peel is rich in magnesium, an essential mineral that supports bone and tooth health and may help prevent conditions such as osteoporosis.
Another significant benefit is its effect on kidney stones. Studies indicate that its magnesium content may help reduce the risk of excessive calcium oxalate accumulation in the kidneys. It also supports heart health by assisting in cholesterol management. Its flavonoids and fiber contribute to the elimination of LDL cholesterol, thereby lowering the risk of cardiovascular diseases, according to research from the United States Department of Agriculture.
One study published in the Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry reads: “In an effort to address the abundance of leftover orange peel waste from orange juice manufacturers in Florida, researchers explored the potential chemical benefits of orange peel extract.
“Their findings showed that orange peels contain certain chemicals that help inhibit the production of TMAO in male mice, suggesting potential applications in human medicine.” TMAO stands for trimethylamine-N-oxide which is produced in our gut.”
How can I add orange peel to my diet?
Although orange peel is rarely consumed on its own due to its bitterness and tough texture, there are various ways to incorporate it into your diet. One approach is to prepare an infusion by boiling a few strips in water, which may aid digestion and help alleviate stomach acidity.
Grating and adding it to desserts, salads or sauces enhances flavor while offering nutritional benefits. You can also blend it into smoothies and juices or utilize its essential oil in cooking or aromatherapy to benefit from its antioxidant and calming properties.