An Ear, Nose and Throat physician, Dr. Ayotunde Fasunla has said that the frequent consumption of oranges offers protection against cardiovascular disease.
Fasunla, of the University College Hospital, Ibadan, Oyo State said this during an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria.
He said “Oranges offer protection against cardiovascular diseases.
“The herperidin, a flavour in oranges, has been shown to lower high blood pressure.
“The folate content is necessary for lowering levels of homocysteine, a potent cardiovascular risk factor.
“The potassium content in orange helps to lower blood pressure, thereby, protecting against stroke and cardiac arrhythmias.”
He also added that Vitamin C can prevent Colon Cancer, he said “Vitamin C is the primary water-soluble antioxidant in the body that disarms free radicals and prevents them from damaging cells.
“This is why a good intake of orange juice is associated with a reduced risk of colon cancer.
“Orange is a strong anti-inflammatory agent that prevents free radical damage that triggers conditions like asthma, osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis.”
He added that “The wound healing properties of oranges have been associated with a wide variety of photonutrient compounds.
“However, most of these are found in the peel and the inner white pulp of the orange.
“Unfortunately, the inner white pulp is not eaten by majority due to lack of knowledge on its benefits.”