Oranges have long been acclaimed for their high vitamin C content and subsequent immune boosting properties, but there is more to the sweet and tangy fruit than meets the eye. Along with other citrus fruit varieties, they can play a dramatic role as anti aging foods for any seeking a helping hand in turning back the clock.
Fight Age Related Disease
Citrus fruit contains a host of bioflavonoids and other phytochemicals that have been shown in studies to provide anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. Arthritic illnesses as well as disorders where the immune system is challenged can all be helped through regular consumption of citrus fruit. This anti aging food also contains properties which have been shown to increase cell turnover so that older cells are encouraged to die off and be replaced by newer ones, a process that often slows with increased age.
Prevent Cancer
The thousands of bioflavonoids found in anti aging citrus fruit have also been known to increase beneficial enzyme production in the digestive tract. This causes the body to naturally break down carcinogens into more benign substances in the stomach and intestines, which can then be more readily expelled from the body or harmlessly absorbed. Citrus fruit has also been known to reduce excess estrogen hormones in the body, which can have an effect on hormone related breast and reproductive system cancers. Their anti-inflammatory properties have also been shown to impede tumor growth and cancerous cell reproduction.
Encourage Weight Loss
Many citrus fruits contain a fiber known as pectin, which can act as an appetite suppressant as well as aid the body in reducing cholesterol in the bloodstream. Along with fiber, the high water content of these anti aging fruits can help give a sense of fullness as well as promote the flushing out of fats released into the bloodstream. As a healthy weight-loss aid, citrus fruit can help to reduce obesity related illnesses such as heart disease and diabetes.
Rejuvenate Skin
Besides helping people feel and look younger from the inside out, anti aging citrus fruit can be used on the outside to help restore youthfulness to the skin. The citric acid in these fruits has long been used as a safe preservative due to its natural antibacterial and antioxidant properties. Using the juice of lemons, grapefruit, or oranges can have the same effect on the face and hands. Lemon and grapefruit juice are also known to lighten age spots, exfoliate, and help to even out skin coloring. The juice also contains alpha hydroxy acids, which are known for their skin firming and collagen boosting properties.
With their host of nutrients and myriad health benefits, the average orange or lemon can prove to be one of nature’s most powerful weapons against even the nastiest symptoms of aging. Whenever you’re on the lookout for an effective method for restoring youth to your body or face, consider picking up an orange, or any of its citrus family members, to get headed in the right direction.
