The citrus family of fruits is a genus of plants and trees in the Rutaceae flower family. Citrus fruits are the world’s most traded horticultural commodity.
Citrus fruits are potent nutritious food sources that are portable and delicious. Furthermore, they include vital vitamins like as C and B6, carbs, fibres, potassium, calcium, and many other nutrients.
There is a frequent misconception that citrus fruits are only high in Vitamin C, but they have much more to offer. They provide several health benefits in both large and little ways. They’re also an excellent method to add more healthful foods into your diet.
Citrus fruits, which originated in South Asia and Australia, are today grown all over the world. So much so that the annual production of oranges alone is over 70 million tonnes! During the winter, we all see orange citrus fruits, especially during the months when most of us are sick with a cold or the flu.
Oranges, tangerines, pomelos, grapefruits, lemons, and limes are some of the most well-known members of this family. These fruits are grown in large quantities all over the world. Not only for their fruity and juicy qualities, but also for their unrivalled health benefits. They are abundant in flavonoids, which hinder the growth of cancer cells. They are also high in phytochemicals and vitamins.
So, if you want to go past the myths surrounding citrus fruits and find a quick and easy approach to become healthier, this article will give you ten reasons to do so.
The Citrus Fruits Group
Citrus fruits are grown in a variety of areas around the world. As a result, there is no specific location. Because the seeds of these fruits do not have limited development conditions, they can grow anywhere.
As a result, they lack a long history of cultivation and commercial sale. Their origins can be traced back to certain regions, but their benefits quickly spread. Before anyone knew it, they were common in markets all across the world.
The citrus family is large, but scientists commonly divide it into six subgroups to make data easier to understand. These six subgroups are as follows:
- Oranges that are sweet
- Oranges that are sour
- Lemons, limes, and grapefruit
- Kumquats, yuzu, citron, pomelo, and Buddha’s hand are some of the other kinds.
Oranges
The orange, which has its origins in the Indian subcontinent, is the king of citrus fruits and has been commercially cultivated for millennia. Oranges are high in vitamin C and fibre, as well as beta-cryptoxanthin. They help to circulate blood and eliminate waste from the body.
The nutritional values of a 100g portion of oranges are as follows:
- 51 calories
- 86 percent water
- Carbohydrates: 13 g
- 3 g dietary fibre
- 9 g natural sugar
Lemons
Lemons, which were originally grown in Iran and Egypt, are now used in almost every household. They have always kept their allure as a delightful yet nutritious addition to food as a staple to make a dish that is a little bit zestier. Lemons, like oranges, are high in vitamin C. They are distinct in that they contain antioxidants and have a long shelf life!
The nutritional content of a 100g serving of Lemons are as follows:
- 29 calories
- 89 percent water
- 1.1 g protein
- Carbohydrates: 9.3 g Sugar: 2.5 g
- 2.8 g of fibre
- 0.3 g fat
Limes
They are the basic sibling of lemons. Many times, Limes have been mistaken for someone else. Limes, which originated in Southeast Asia, contain more sugar and citric acid than lemons and have long been used as a food dressing. They alleviate inflammation and hasten recuperation.
The nutritional content of a 100g serving of Lemons are as follows:
- 30 calories
- 80 percent water
- 0.2 g fat
- Carbohydrates: 10.5 g
- 1.6 g sugar
- 2.8 g of fibre
- Protein content: 0.7
Grapefruits
Grapefruits, which originated in the early 17th century somewhere around Barbados, are undoubtedly among the most beautiful and healthy citrus fruits to consume. Grapefruits are unusual in that they contain flavonoids that help prevent diabetes and protect the liver.
Grapefruits have the following nutritional contents per 100g serving:
- 42 calories
- 88 percent water
- 0.1 g fat
- Carbohydrates: 10.6 g Fibre: 1.6 g
- 6 g sugar
- 1 gramme protein
- Citrus fruits are healthy, delicious, and easy to transport and enjoy. We simply cited a few of the numerous health benefits it provides, both mental and physical.
Citrus Fruits Health Benefits
Cancer
One of the best benefits of citrus fruits is their anti-carcinogenic qualities.
Citrus fruits, in essence, serve an important role in limiting cancer cell activity and decreasing tumour formation.
Citrus fruits, such as oranges and limes, contain Cardiovascular and Hyperglycemic components, which means they improve blood flow, prevent clumping/clotting, and ease digestion.
Citrus flavonoids contain anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties. They aid in the reduction of physical discomfort and the acceleration of recuperation.
We all know the importance of keeping our immune systems healthy and active. But it is not always easy to do so in this day and age. It is a full-time job to try and dodge all of the harmful toxins that we are exposed to, while at the same time living up to our daily responsibilities. With that in mind, an effective immunity booster is a must. We reviewed a number of immunity boosters and found Q Shield Immunity Booster one the most effective.
Mental Illness
Many people don’t believe it, but studies show that citrus fruits can aid with mental health difficulties in more ways than one. Most citrus fruits, for example, contain Apigenin, a crystalline chemical. Apigenin is antidepressant in nature. Citrus fruits include flavonoids that have antiallergic and anti-anxiety qualities.
Furthermore, citrus polyphenols can prevent and repair neurodegeneration by protecting neuronal cells from inflammation, which is important in mental illnesses. Citrus bioactive components may increase general cognition, according to research.
As a result, citrus fruits can aid persons who are experiencing symptoms of early-onset sadness or anxiety. Furthermore, citrus fruits improve both their mental and physical wellness.
Metabolic process
Citrus fruits are great for increasing metabolism. They do so in a variety of ways using various chemicals and elements. They contain, for example, Vitamins B3, B6, and B9, which help to balance body fluids, maintain haemoglobin levels, and boost the metabolic process in the body.
But it isn’t all. Citrus fruits also contain essential elements such as calcium, manganese, and zinc. They boost metabolism and help to build teeth and bones. These nutrients also improve blood circulation in the body.
System of Nerves and Circulation
Citrus fruits include important acids such as ascorbic acid and thiamine, as well as vitamins B, B2, and B3. They aid in blood vessel relaxation and oxidation. As a result, oxygenated blood circulates throughout the body.
Essentially, this means that all of your organs will react favourably to the blood they get. As a result, they are less likely to deteriorate from a lack of blood or from receiving carbon-rich blood. Furthermore, elements found in citrus fruits, such as phosphorus and selenium, contribute in DNA creation and energy distribution.
These components help relax the nerves, which is consistent with the benefits indicated above for Mental Health. According to one study, they cut reflex time and improve motor functions in people. So, when you feed Citrus Fruits to your body’s primary transport systems, the ones that keep you alive, they work even better!
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Bones and Muscles
Citrus fruits, according to specialists, speed up the mending process after a good workout, resulting in stronger muscles. However, many individuals are unaware that strenuous training and exercise aren’t required to get the most out of what these fruits have to offer your muscles.
They aid in the formation of connective tissues, the repair of internal organ damage, and the body’s response to all types of traumas. Calcium and sodium, for example, improve the shape and rigidity of the body’s skeletal system. Magnesium promotes muscular contraction and relaxation during physical activity. Zinc also aids in the relaxation of tense muscles.
A Well-balanced Diet
Getting, peeling, and eating citrus fruits is a fantastic way to pass the time. It also helps to balance out any other cravings you may have had the night before.
Your hand-eye coordination will also improve. When nutrients and food are delivered to the body in a timely and balanced manner, the body responds favourably to the meal. If you want your body to help you, you must first help your body!
Other Advantages
We discussed citrus fruits containing flavonoids and phytochemicals at the beginning of this post. There were no concerns regarding the efficacy of citrus fruits after an in-depth research of their antioxidant capabilities. However, there are a number of other advantages to eating citrus fruits.
Citrus fruits include copper and selenium, which are vital components for physical well-being. Citrus fruits have been proven in independent trials to lower high blood pressure and bad cholesterol (LDL). Citrus fruits, like other fruits, contain a lot of water. Consumption naturally distributes water to the body, which aids in hydration. [1]
Overall, we may conclude that citrus fruits provide numerous health benefits, both physical and mental. As a result, it effectively dispels any myth about the consumption of citrus fruits. It also gives you an extra incentive to try out what you’ve been avoiding for so long!
Recipes for Citrus Fruits
We understand that eating the same fruits every day just because they’re healthy can get a little old. So here are a couple dishes to help you spice up your Citrus-y experience!
1 Citrus and Green Tahini Charred Kale
4 servings
Time to prepare: 20 minutes
Ingredients:
14 cup seasoned rice vinegar
14 cup homemade tahini
1 little garlic clove
2 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil
12 cup cilantro 1 tsp kosher salt
Kale: 2 bunches, ribs and stems removed
2 oranges; 13 cup shallots
2 tbsp sesame seeds
Preparation:
- Combine vinegar, tahini, garlic, olive oil, and water in a blender until smooth.
- Purée the cilantro until it is bright green, then season with salt.
- In a skillet, heat 1 tbsp oil over medium heat.
- Cook for approximately a minute, or until the kale is brilliant green. Toss the kale for about a minute more, or until it is visibly browned and slightly wilted.
- Transfer to a medium mixing bowl. Toss the kale with the first half of the dressing and shake well to mix.
- Season with salt and pepper.
- Citrus peels can be removed with a paring knife. Avoid removing too much flesh.
- If you have any leftovers, use them as a dressing for the salad.
Citrus Raita with Spiced Oil
2 servings
Time to cook: 20 minutes
Ingredients:
2 cups Greek yoghurt
1 12 cup finely grated orange zest
1 12 cup finely grated lemon zest
2 tbsp fresh orange juice
2 tbsp fresh lemon juice
1 cup peeled and finely grated ginger
Jaggery 1 tbsp powder
salt kosher
1 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil
1 tbsp crushed coriander seeds
12 teaspoon turmeric powder
12 teaspoon Kashmiri chilli powder
Preparation:
- In a small bowl, mix together the Greek yoghurt, lemon zest, and lime juice using a whisker or other utensil.
- Then, immediately stir in the orange zest and orange lime, making sure the mixture is homogeneous.
- In a medium-sized skillet or saucepan, heat the oil.
- Cook until the coriander seeds give off a pleasant aroma and the mixture is colourful. This should just take approximately a minute more.
- Then, add the turmeric and chilli powder.
- Cook uniformly after adding everything, shaking the pan and tossing the insides until they look popping and smell pleasant.
- As a dressing, pour over the raita.
Salad with Crispy Kale (With Coconut and Ginger)
8 servings
Time to cook: 20 minutes
Ingredients:
4 bunches of Tuscan kale, ribs, and stems removed
2 cups vegetable oil
salt kosher
13 cup fresh lemon juice
3 tbsp soy sauce or tamari
3 tbsp tahini
2 tsp honey
2 tsp toasted sesame oil
2 tsp coarsely grated peeled ginger
1 cup grated garlic
1 finely sliced shallot 1 thinly sliced Thai chilli 1 thinly sliced
1 12 cup coconut
2 medium grapefruits Cilantro: 34 cup
Preparation:
- Pre-heat the oven to 190°C.
- Use two baking pans and place half of the kale on each one.
- Now, drizzle a tablespoon of vegetable oil over both baking sheets and season with salt.
- Then, arrange both baking sheets in a single layer and bake until light golden and crispy. This should take approximately 8–10 minutes. Set aside the kale chips.
- Toast your coconut in a dry medium-sized pan over a medium-high temperature, tossing once or twice, until most flakes are golden brown. It will take 5 minutes more.
- Place in a small bowl.
- Remove the peel using a paring knife. Take care not to remove any of the flesh.
- Make use of the remaining kale by tearing it up finely. Later, use it as a dressing. Season with a pinch of salt.
- Toss in the grapefruit, coconut, cilantro, and saved kale chips.
Caution – Citrus Fruits Side Effects
Citrus fruits, like anything else, should be consumed in moderation. Even the best things have drawbacks, and citrus fruits are no exception. Consuming more citrus fruits and liquids than recommended raises the risk of acquiring cavities. The acid in citrus fruits causes this dental problem. It serves as an eroding agent, causing your teeth’s enamel to deteriorate.
Too much citric acid might have catastrophic consequences. These symptoms include numbness, swelling, or rapid weight gain, cramps, a higher heart rate, mood swings, stomach ache, or seizure, but these are only the most severe.
In any case, everything you eat should be balanced and healthful.
Citric Acid Consumption
If you eat up to 5 servings of citrus fruits each day, your total vitamin C intake will be around 200mg. However, while this is not lethal or harmful, it is best not to surpass this limit and to stay within it. More than five servings also result in an excessive intake of fibre, which may cause excretion troubles. As a result, limit yourself to no more than 2-3 servings each day.
The daily maximum for juice consumption is approximately 7-8 ounces (240mL). Citric acid is often present in juices prepared from fresh citrus fruits at a concentration of 0.2 g/oz. Excess citric acid might cause major issues.
According to research, the maximum daily intake should be roughly 10mL diluted. Anything more will have unintended consequences.
Conclusion
Making the move will never be easier now that we know how beneficial citrus fruits can be to your body and mind. It’s time to throw out those old wives’ tales and get some citrus in your life!
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
If you’re still puzzled or need answers, here are some of the most frequently asked questions concerning citrus fruits.
Q. What are the names of all the citrus fruits?
A. The citrus family contains a wide variety of fruits. They are, nevertheless, separated into subgroups. Sweet oranges, bitter oranges, lemons, limes, grapefruits, and other kinds such as kumquats, yuzu, and citron fall under these categories.
Q. Is an apple classified as a citrus fruit?
No, apples are not citrus fruits. Pears, watermelon, and raspberries are examples of fruits that do not belong to the citrus family.
Q. Is pineapple classified as a citrus fruit?
A. Despite the fact that they appear to share many similarities, such as vitamin C, pineapple is not a citrus fruit. As a result, they are unrelated to one another.
Q: Does papaya include citrus?
A. Although papaya contains trace levels of citric acid, it does not belong to the citrus fruit genus. It is a low-acid fruit that contains only 0.1 percent citric acid.
Q. Is the strawberry a citrus fruit?
A. Strawberry is not a citrus fruit. They grow in northern latitudes and do not have a thick, fleshy rind like citrus fruits.
Q. What are the health benefits of citrus fruits?
A great deal! They boost metabolism, benefit muscles, bones, digestion, the brain, the heart, and overall physical and mental well-being.
Q: Which citrus fruit is the healthiest?
A. There is no such thing as the healthiest citrus fruit, although research suggests that grapefruits are one of the healthier ones. This is due to their high levels of vitamin C, potassium, and fibre.
Q. How many citrus fruits should I consume every day?
A. Depending on the amount of Vitamin C necessary, such fruits can be consumed in one or two portions each day. As a result, this satisfies the daily recommended limit.
Q. What happens if you consume a lot of citrus fruits?
Citrus fruits including lemons, limes, oranges, and grapefruit are acidic. As a result, they can irritate the stomach lining, resulting in digestive issues and, in some cases, internal injury. Citrus fruits, on the other hand, do not cause irreversible harm.
Q. Is it harmful to consume citrus fruits on a daily basis?
No, it does not! As long as you use them sparingly. Consume citrus fruits as part of a well-balanced diet. Consuming citrus fruits on a daily basis is really beneficial to your health!
Q. Is citrus beneficial to the skin?
A. Certainly! Citrus fruit extracts are frequently touted in skincare products due to their antioxidant effects. Furthermore, they exfoliate your skin and give it a natural glow!