If you’ve peeled the oranges and mandarins carefully from the white parts between the flesh and skin, it’s time to stop. The “albedo”, that is, the white part of the citrus peel, is a real wealth of nutrients.
- The white part of the citrus, although bitter, is fit for consumption. It is a rich source of nutrients
- Albedo contains pectins and fiber that swell in the stomach and make you feel full
- You can find more up-to-date information on the TvoiLokony home page
The white part of the orange – albedo
Usually, when we peel oranges and mandarins, we carefully separate the white part of the peel from the flesh. This part of the fruit has a name – it’s the albedo. It turns out that this inconspicuous part of the fruit contains many valuable nutrients. It is rich in pectin, which supports the intestinal function and the maintenance of normal blood sugar levels. They also support the fight against excess bad cholesterol. Pectins swell in the stomach and make us feel full for longer. Pectin in combination with fiber, of which there is a lot of albedo, support metabolism and have a positive effect on the intestinal bacterial flora.
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But that’s not all – by eating oranges with a white skin, we provide the body with vitamins A, C and P, which have a positive effect on the immune system. This is especially important in the context of autumn and winter drops in immunity.
Eating citrus with a white peel may also be helpful in preventing cancer. Scientists at the Arizona Cancer Center have found that D-limonene in orange fruit albedo reduces the risk of skin squamous cell carcinoma. “Our research shows that the consumption of peel, the main dietary source of d-limonene, is not uncommon and may have the potential to protect against skin squamous cell carcinoma,” the article wrote.
The white rind is not particularly liked because of its bitter taste and spongy texture. However, it is worth convincing yourself to eat oranges and mandarins with white peel, due to the health benefits mentioned above.
Health properties of citrus
Oranges are low-calorie fruits. A medium-sized orange provides about 60 kcal. They do not contain fat, cholesterol or sodium. However, they are a great source of vitamin C – a powerful antioxidant that protects cells by neutralizing and removing harmful free radicals. Vitamin C also has a positive effect on the immune system, and some studies even suggest that it lowers the risk of developing certain cancers.
In addition to vitamin C, oranges are also rich in fiber, potassium, choline, folic acid and vitamin B.
Although oranges have many health benefits, not everyone can eat them. According to the American Heart Association, people who take beta-blockers should limit their consumption of potassium-rich fruits such as oranges and bananas.
However, if you have no contraindications to eating oranges, try them together with albedo.
In turn, mandarins are a good source of vitamins A and C. They also contain strong antioxidants, substances that destroy free radicals, which are responsible for the aging of the body and many diseases. Antioxidants also help keep cholesterol in check. If you have raised its level, be sure to reach for citrus!
However, if you don’t like white crusts, you can choose freeze-dried mandarins by weight. They do not lose their nutritional value and at the same time do not contain water.
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