The island’s rich, warm climate makes it quite ideal for a variety of tasty and mouth-watering fruits to grow. Although many of these delectables that we have come to know and love did not originate in Jamaica, they can be found all across the island.

And though delicious and/or sweet, these fruits provide some great health benefits. In another edition of Our Today‘s feature series, we explore the health benefits that Jamaica-found fruits are able to provide, and, for today, the spotlight is on a local favourite, the orange.

This citrus, divided into segments called carpels, is believed to be native to the tropical areas of Asia. Oranges are cultivated in countries such as the United States, Brazil and India.

Health Benefits

Alkalises the body

Before digesting the acidic fruit, oranges are able to transfer minerals to the body which play an integral role in the digestion process.

Alkaline is important for balancing pH levels, which causes the body to function at more optimum levels.

Helps regulate blood sugar

The fibre content found in oranges is able control one’s blood sugar levels. Rich in pectin, a soluble fibre, and low in glycemic index, oranges are less likely to affect blood sugar and insulin levels.

Helps absorb iron

Patients with anaemia, a condition where the body lacks enough healthy blood cells, are often told to consume oranges as they are essential for the proper functioning of the body.

Despite oranges not being a good source of iron, they help with the absorption of the essential chemical.

Prevents skin damage

The antioxidants found in oranges help to protect the skin from free radicals. Some studies have demonstrated that oranges are able to improve the appearance of wrinkles.

Vitamin C Benefits:

Vitamin C, an absorbic acid, is able to perform several important functions. These include:

• Improve immune system health

Contributing to the body’s defence system, the absorbic acid is able to support several motor functions. It is also able to fight against the onset of cold and flu.

• Maintains healthy hair

Vitamin C improves hair growth and lessens the chances of hair loss. The micro nutrient also promotes healthy hair. Those dreaded split ends and dry hair can result from a lack of the vitamin.