What vitamins are contained in orange and lemon?

Few of us need it pointed out that citrus fruits are very healthy, especially during the winter months. Agree, if there were no benefits, then we would have come up with them ourselves for the reason that exotic table guests are tasty, they are refreshing, have a stunning aroma and bring bright and invigorating colors. But it still makes sense to replenish your knowledge base and find out what are the benefits, harms and contraindications of citrus fruits. Let's consider pressing issues that interest most lovers of lemons, oranges, tangerines and other exotic delicacies right now and in detail.

As soon as cold days arrive and the first months of spring begin, the body begins to ring the bells and requires special attention. This indicates a banal vitamin deficiency, that is, a lack of nutrients, micro and macroelements, minerals, which ensure normal human life. Citrus fruits - lemons, limes, oranges, tangerines and their other brethren - can help us. But what do we know about the products we are already familiar with, where they come from, and when they first appeared.

A little history of citrus fruits

Evergreen shrubs laden with colorful fruits - lemons, oranges, tangerines, mistletoes and other fruits belong to the Rutaceae family. The countries of Southeast Asia and China are officially considered their homeland. Just think that back in the days of the legendary teacher Confucius, peasants cultivated a number of citrus fruits - oranges, tangerines, lemons, limes, etc. Thanks to their work, they were able to obtain a special artificially bred crop - yuzu. And all this happened around the 3rd century BC.

What does this mean? It turns out that citrus fruits have a very distant history, which is hidden in times about which we cannot know anything. The wars that great commanders organized everywhere should be thanked for their distribution of fruits. So Alexander the Great, having fought in the countries of the Southeast, brought fruits to Babylon from India, and the residents really liked the new delicacy. The commander did not forget to take with him the seeds of wild citrus fruits, which took root well in the fertile soil.

The lemons and oranges that are familiar to us ended up in European countries. Later - in the Medieval period. The Arabs who brought narengs to Spain began to distribute them throughout Europe. Then came the turn of lemons and oranges - they were brought by the famous Vasco da Gama. People began to value the plant not only for its taste, but also for the beauty of the evergreen shrubs with which representatives of the richest classes decorated their greenhouses.

Exotic fruits reached Russians very late, during the reign of the great Peter the Great. A fan of exotic plants, strange fruits and vegetables, Prince Menshikov grew the first lemons and oranges in his garden. But it’s worth noting that they were only admired; few people knew about their taste. When the fruits were completely declassified, their prices grew by leaps and bounds. For example, three kilograms of tangerines were sold at a price that could buy a cow. But be that as it may, citrus fruits have firmly taken their place in the menu of the Russian consumer and delight the eye with their bright, beautiful and cheerful color.

Interesting fact. We always associate oranges and tangerines with the New Year holidays. There is a direct explanation for this - in former times they were delivered only by sea and the ships arrived just at the end of December. Since then, it has become customary to associate New Year and Christmas with the smell of oranges, tangerines, etc.

Which grapefruit is healthier: white or red?

Red and white grapefruits are species of the same genus, a hybrid of pomelo and orange. Despite the same identity, they still have differences among themselves.

The difference from red is as follows:

1. External parameters. One representative has red flesh color, the other almost white.
2. Both contain large amounts of vitamin C, approximately 70 mg. The same amount of potassium is necessary to maintain the health of the heart and blood vessels. But there is, for example, several times more vitamin A in red than in white. And as you know, retinol is necessary for a person to have youthful skin.
3. In terms of energy value, red fruit has more calories than white fruit. The first contains about 90 calories.
4. The white product has slightly higher fiber content than the red product. Fiber is necessary for removing toxins, cleansing the colon, and lowering cholesterol levels.
5. Red contains more antioxidants and lycopene, which is needed to fight cancer.

Such minute deviations are practically not noticeable in changes in the body after eating fruits. Which fruit to choose depends on you, since in addition to red and white, pink and the well-known yellow are also bred. (Read about the benefits of fruit for women)

Useful composition and properties of citrus fruits

The composition of exotic fruits, which we call citrus fruits, includes all vitamins of group B, A, E, C. They also contain micro and macroelements: potassium, manganese, boron, chlorine, calcium, phosphorus, iron, zinc, copper, fluorine, iodine , cobalt, sulfur, essential oils.

1. An important advantage of citrus fruits is a large amount of vitamin C, which is stored in the fruit for a long period of time. Let us remind you that in other products the component is leveled out after 1-2 months. The fruit contains pectins, organic types of acids, and phytoncides. There are also differences between different names. For example, the well-known lemon is used as a prophylactic to eliminate infectious processes and colds. And grapefruit strengthens the walls of blood vessels, normalizes the functioning of the cardiovascular system, prevents stroke, heart attack, and cleanses the intestines of putrefactive and pathogenic bacteria. Vitamin C is a champion for its general strengthening properties and increasing the level of immunity.
2. Also, this component, ascorbic acid, activates metabolic processes, performs the functions of an enzyme, improves the absorption of glucose into the intestinal walls, and burns excess fat. Thanks to vitamin C, the level of bad cholesterol is reduced, the central nervous system is strengthened, the nerves are calmed, sleep is improved, and insomnia, anxiety, panic attacks, and fears are eliminated.
3. Vitamin C prevents Alzheimer's disease, atherosclerosis, improves memory and mental functions. Activates areas responsible for pleasure and vigor. The substance also nourishes the body with energy, increases blood flow, feeding the smallest capillaries, which gives vitality and endurance.
4. Component C is involved in the process of protein synthesis, heals wounds, forms collagen, and improves the patient’s condition after a serious operation or illness.
5. Vitamin P and potassium are used for the prevention and treatment of diseases of the heart, blood vessels, and hypertension. The substances prevent the formation of stones in the gall bladder and kidneys, and successfully protect against the development of skin diseases. Due to the presence of valuable components, it is included in the diet for diseases of the liver and eyes.
6. Vitamins C and A perfectly cleanse the lymph and blood of toxins and free radicals, and restore strength after chemotherapy and severe oncology surgery.
7. All valuable items included in citrus fruits participate in all metabolic processes, regulate blood pressure, stimulate biologically active substances and significantly improve health.
8. Freshly squeezed juice of lemon, orange, tangerine and other fruits destroys pathogens and cleanses the body of putrefactive bacteria. Moreover, even skins that emit aroma emit phytoncides that cleanse the indoor air of viruses. Also, thanks to their aroma, vigor arises and the strain on vision is reduced.
9. Essential oils are a valuable component of citrus fruits. Fortunately, today you can buy lemon, grapefruit, tangerine, orange, lime and other types of oils at any pharmacy for pennies. But their healing component is simply invaluable. They are used for therapeutic massage, bathing, relaxation, meditation, and treatment of viral and infectious diseases.
10. Oils are used not only externally, but also internally. They have a beneficial effect on the body in diseases of the gastrointestinal tract, inflammatory processes, have analgesic properties, and relieve fatigue. Antiseptic properties make it possible to successfully use squeezes for the treatment of various skin diseases; they stimulate the genitourinary system, increase potency, libido, and improve the quality of sexual intercourse.
11. In addition to the listed possibilities, any citrus fruit is the best medicine for hair and nails.

Having studied the beneficial properties of the general group, let’s move on to the advantages of the most common citrus fruits.

1. Lemon. This fruit has been used for respiratory and cold infectious diseases since ancient times. It contains a lot of citrine, which allows vitamin C to be absorbed into the body in maximum quantities. The lemon scent calms the nerves, relieves stress, and eliminates depression.
2. Orange. This fruit is in no way inferior to the usual lemon. It also contains a colossal amount of vitamin C and an incredible amount of all components of group B. The bright orange color indicates the presence of retinol in full - vitamin A, which improves vision, hearing, memory, skin condition, etc. The fruits contain a lot of pectin - a soft brush that acts as a sorbent that absorbs all harmful substances.
3. Mandarin. It cannot be said that it contains as many useful substances as orange and lemon, but still this fruit is very good for health. They cope well with gastrointestinal diseases, stimulate appetite, and help with disorders and diarrhea. For respiratory diseases, in particular bronchitis, it is recommended to drink tangerine juice (fresh).
4. Grapefruit. This is the most favorite fruit of those who want to get rid of extra pounds and watch their figure. Regardless of how much fried potatoes or meat and bread were eaten at the table, a couple of slices after the meal are enough and oh, a miracle! Fats are burned, carbohydrates are neutralized and the body is cleansed. It contains vitamins PP, C, A and D. The product has general strengthening properties, adds strength after serious illnesses, including cancer, operations, chemotherapy, etc.
5. Lime. The best thing about this fruit is its piquant bitterness, acidity and amazingly fresh and pleasant aroma. In addition to the fact that it has a powerful antiviral, antiseptic and antirheumatic effect, it eliminates sore throat with sore throat, pain in the intestines, stomach, calms the nerves and relieves stress. The fruit is very popular in cooking; it gives dishes a special sophistication and piquancy, a unique taste.

Vitamins and minerals in grapefruits

Both types of grapefruit are rich in vitamin C, which is important for a healthy immune system. It helps fight the symptoms of colds and flu, reduces the development of inflammatory processes in the body. Vitamin C is important in the fight against diseases such as asthma, osteo and rheumatoid arthritis. One cup of grapefruit pulp, either white or red, contains up to 70 mg of vitamin C, or 120% of the recommended daily value. Also, both types of fruit contain the same doses of potassium, which is vital for the cardiovascular system. The fundamental difference between white and red grapefruit is the content of vitamin A. Red fruits contain tens of times more of it than white ones. A cup of white grapefruit contains about 2% of the recommended daily intake, while a cup of red grapefruit contains about 50%. Vitamin A is important for vision, metabolic processes, it acts as an antioxidant and is responsible for the rapid healing of the skin and mucous membranes.

When buying any grapefruit, red or white, choose fruits that are heavier in weight than they appear. As a rule, such fruits are the juiciest. Discard flattened fruits with soft skin - they are stale.

In addition to the vitamins listed, both types of fruit contain almost the same doses of B vitamins, such as thiamine, pyrodoxine and riboflavin, as well as calcium, copper and phosphorus.

Is it possible for pregnant women to eat citrus fruits?

Any woman who has been pregnant at least once knows that taste preferences during this time change every minute. May crave fish, pickles, or feel sick at the sight of water. But what’s remarkable is that doctors say that citrus fruits practically do not cause disgust in women. As a rule, a pregnant woman eats fruits with pleasure. And this is correct, citrus fruits contain a lot of useful substances for the fetus and the expectant mother, since they:

1. They burn extra calories and lose weight, which is very useful for a pregnant woman.
2. Calms nerves and eliminates depression.
3. The presence of potassium helps in the fight against swelling and excess fluid.
4. The components thin the blood and prevent the formation of blood clots and varicose veins.
5. Oranges contain a large amount of folic acid, which is necessary to eliminate embryo pathologies.
6. Citrus fruits are a mild laxative.
7. Freshly squeezed juice relieves nausea and vomiting.

Important: doctors recommend consuming no more than 5 oranges or 7 tangerines per week, otherwise an allergic reaction or other side effects may occur.

Frequent consumption of citrus fruits can lead to the destruction of tooth enamel. To eliminate problems, you can drink juice through a straw.

Beneficial properties of grapefruits

This product is one of the top three in terms of benefits for people. Grapefruit is considered a hybrid of pomelo and orange. But if both “parents” taste sweet, why is there bitterness in their offspring? This is primarily due to the richness of essential oils that the partitions and peel are endowed with.

What are the benefits of grapefruit?

1. Firstly, it is worth saying that one fruit contains the daily requirement of ascorbic acid necessary for the human body. This indicator puts it in first place among other exotics, perhaps even its position is higher than lemon.
2. Secondly, it contains a very rich composition of minerals, including: magnesium, calcium, zinc, potassium. Such wealth can fill the cardiac, vascular systems, and musculoskeletal system with everything necessary for normal functioning.
3. Grapefruit contains a rare substance - naringin, a biologically active substance, a natural flavonoid and glycoside.
4. The vitamin composition is presented: PP, P, A, E, D, B-groups.

These benefits make it a truly healing pantry for humans, rich in fiber, organic matter, and vitamins. Thanks to these ingredients, fruits are used to eliminate certain ailments.

A tropical natural product replenishes the energy spent on mental and physical work. In addition, it normalizes the functioning of the gastrointestinal tract, and all organs included in this system. Prevents constipation. And ultimately, it promotes the production of the happiness hormone, which can lift the patient’s mood.

Important! Fruit lovers should remember that they are not recommended to be used in conjunction with any medications.

Is it possible for children to have citrus fruits?

Due to the beneficial composition that strengthens the body as a whole, the nerves that form the bone structure, children can be given citrus fruits from the age of 9 months. If there is a catarrhal-exudative type of allergy, complementary feeding with these fruits should be postponed until 1 year.

Important: before adding citrus fruits to your baby’s diet, be sure to consult with your doctor.

In what form to give is a question that interests many. Start with freshly squeezed juice or a small slice. Let him get wet and enjoy it. If a rash, redness or swelling occurs on any part of the body, stop taking it immediately and seek medical help immediately. Signs indicate an allergic reaction. Juice for children also needs to be made according to a special recipe. In its pure form, unpleasant sensations may arise due to the acids in citrus fruits. Therefore, you need to dilute the freshly squeezed juice with warm boiled water - 1:1, or children's apple or carrot juice.

What are the benefits of citrus fruits for men?

The male half of humanity needs to include all citrus fruits in their diet, but special attention should be paid to lemon. In addition to the fact that it cleanses the human intestines, improves peristalsis, and gets rid of stones, it is an excellent assistant in terms of men's health. The properties of yellow citrus include:

• protection against testicular cancer;
• blood pressure regulation;
• destruction of parasites, helminthic infestations;
• extermination of bacteria, including microbes of cholera, diphtheria, typhoid and malaria;
• strengthening the walls of blood vessels, the functioning of the cardiovascular system;
• regulation of heat exchange.

When planning a family, doctors advise men to regularly consume lemon juice, which helps conceive a child. The liquid improves the quality of male sperm and activates sperm movements. Thiamine and vitamin C enhance sexual performance and fertility, and affect the growth of the hormone testosterone.

Important: you should not overuse lemon, as acids can cause problems in the gastrointestinal tract and allergic reactions.

Citrus fruits have an excellent diuretic effect, which allows you to cleanse the urogenital tract of sand and small stones.

How to use lemons for men

The best remedy is a cocktail that contains half a glass of lemon juice, half a glass of boiled water, a tablespoon of honey and a teaspoon of grated ginger.

If you have problems with the prostate gland, you should definitely use the following composition: Grind 3 washed lemons, chicken yolks (3 pieces) and a glass of honey in a meat grinder. Take 25 grams (tablespoon) three times a day before meals.

Important: you should absolutely not eat lemon seeds; they contain toxins - powerful allergens.

The benefits and harms of grapefruit

Surely everyone is familiar with its exotic sour-bitter-sweet taste. Many are delighted with him, while others are his ardent opponents. Despite these statistics, no one will remain indifferent to this fruit.

It is rich in a high content of vitamins, microelements and organic acids, which is what determines its benefits:

• Improves the body's resistance to viruses;
• Has a beneficial effect on liver function;
• Helps remove excess fluid;
• Normalizes blood pressure;
• Removes toxins and bad cholesterol from the body;
• Improves blood structure;
• Normalizes blood sugar levels;
• Helps pregnant women fight symptoms of toxicosis.

It is also an excellent means for losing weight; it helps speed up metabolism, thanks to which it can successfully fight the problem of excess weight. Thanks to the large amount of fiber, it can quickly and easily fill you up, and it is also low in calories. It will be effective to periodically spend fasting days on grapefruit.

However, there is a “but” here: for people with high acidity, the consumption of this fruit should be reduced to a minimum amount, as it can become an irritant to the gastric mucosa.

Who should not eat citrus fruits?

There are a small number of contraindications for consuming citrus fruits, which include:

• gastrointestinal ulcers;
• high level of acidity;
• chronic or acute pancreatitis;
• gastritis;
• nephritis;
• pyelonephritis;
• hypertension.

Grapefruit should be consumed with great caution; its constituent substances inhibit the breakdown of a certain number of medications and products. Before including it in the diet, consult a doctor.

How to select and store

Any citrus fruit should have a dense and elastic peel and an even color. The fruit is free of dents, dark spots and mold. It’s a good idea to sniff the fruit - the absence of smell indicates the use of dangerous preservatives during transportation. Therefore, go for the pleasant, specific smell of the chosen citrus. Store in the refrigerator, in the upper section, preferably in a paper bag, for 2-3 weeks.

Is it possible to lose weight with citrus fruits?

This question is especially relevant in the cold months, on the eve of the New Year holidays. All ladies want to lose excess weight within a few days and citrus fruit will help them with this.

1st recipe for weight loss with citrus fruits:

• breakfast – unsweetened squeeze of grapefruit, lemon and 2 medium oranges (on an empty stomach);
• after half an hour: regular breakfast (required);
• 30 minutes before lunch – grapefruit squeeze, half a lemon and 1 orange;
• full lunch;
• at 17-00 juice (unsweetened grape juice, half a lemon and an orange).

You should carefully follow the indicated hourly parameters so as not to cause problems with sleep and not to lose the beneficial composition.

A very strict citrus diet:

During breaks, drink water diluted with fresh lemon juice, black or green tea. The procedure lasts 3 days, then a break for 3 days - the diet includes soups, light cereals, then the diet again. The maximum course is 3 weeks.

Important: the described diets are strictly contraindicated for pregnant women and persons with gastrointestinal tract and kidney problems.

A meager diet can be supplemented with multivitamin complexes prescribed by your doctor. Finally, we would like to present to your attention excellent and time-tested recipes using citrus fruits. Let's start with a light and invigorating drink - lemonade.

Homemade lemonade

For 15 glasses you need:

• one and a half glasses of sugar;
• 3 liters of water;
• half a glass of mint leaves;
• 3 large lemons.

Boil a glass of water and dissolve sugar in it. Squeeze the juice from the lemons, mix together the sugar syrup, water and juice, and chop the mint leaves with your hands. Shake thoroughly and place in the refrigerator to cool.

Baked chicken with oranges

We are used to cooking duck, chicken or turkey only with apples or quince. The aroma and amazing taste of citrus fruits works real miracles with meat. Acids make the pulp soft, juicy and tender. Prepare the bird as usual for baking, only add orange slices as a filling. Bake as usual and serve with the sauce, which can also be prepared in minutes.