You probably know that oranges are a healthy treat. They’re packed with vitamin C and antioxidants that help boost your immune system to keep pesky colds at bay. But like most people, you’re probably missing out on one of the most nutritious parts of the fruit – the rind.
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Researchers at the University of Florida recently took a closer look at the health benefits of orange peels when they fed mice an orange peel extract and examined the results. They found that the mice were able to better avoid heart disease and resist becoming overweight, compared to mice that were not fed the extract. To further such studies and determine the impact that orange peel nutrients may have on humans, the U.S. Department of Agriculture awarded university scientist Yu Wang with a $500,000 grant.
Wang said, “Orange peel has been used in Asia for many years for medicinal uses. We know that if we treat mice with orange peel extract, it can control weight and reduce fat accumulation.”
Through his research, Wang has found that the nutrients in orange peels are able to help prevent trimethylamine from forming in the digestive tract. Trimethylamine, or TMA, contributes to artery hardening, as well as heart disease. With the ability to help prevent TMA form forming, and in turn boost gut health, researchers are hopeful that the nutrients in orange peels may play an important role in disease prevention, ranging from obesity to heart disease and even cancer.
If you want to take advantage of your orange peels instead of discarding them, try blending them up in a homemade smoothie. They’re safe – and even beneficial – for consumption, just be sure to stick with organic oranges to avoid pesticides, antibiotics and other toxic reside. And even when using organic produce, it’s still a good idea to wash it before use.
Orange you glad you learned this health tip?