As a common fruit, the nature of oranges has always been controversial. Some people say oranges are cooling fruits, while others believe they are heating. Is orange a cooling or heating food? This article will analyze it from different perspectives to unveil the mystery of the orange for you.
The Nature of Oranges from a Traditional Chinese Medicine Perspective
From the perspective of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), oranges are considered cooling fruits. Oranges are sweet and sour in taste, and have the effects of clearing heat and detoxifying, moistening the lungs, and relieving coughs. People with symptoms such as febrile diseases and coughs can eat oranges in moderation to alleviate their condition.
The Nature of Oranges from a Nutritional Perspective
From a nutritional perspective, oranges are considered heating fruits. Oranges are rich in nutrients such as vitamin C and fruit acids, which can promote metabolism and enhance the body's immunity. At the same time, oranges also have a certain diuretic effect, making them suitable for consumption in the summer.
The Nature of Oranges from an Experiential Perspective
From an experiential perspective, the nature of oranges varies by region. People in the south generally consider oranges to be cooling fruits, while people in the north generally consider them to be heating. This is related to the different climates and eating habits in various regions.
Nutritional Components of Oranges
Oranges are rich in nutritional components such as vitamin C, citric acid, malic acid, and glucose. Among them, vitamin C can promote the absorption and utilization of iron, and enhance the body's immunity. Citric acid and malic acid help promote gastrointestinal motility and enhance intestinal digestive function.
Calories in Oranges
Every 100 grams of orange pulp contains 44 calories, making it a relatively low-calorie fruit. Oranges are one of the more suitable fruits for weight loss.
Effects of Oranges
In addition to effects such as clearing heat and detoxifying, moistening the lungs and relieving coughs, and enhancing immunity, oranges also have benefits such as beautifying the skin and preventing cardiovascular and cerebrovascular diseases. Furthermore, orange juice can also help sober up.
How to Eat Oranges
Oranges can be eaten directly, or made into delicacies such as orange juice and orange marmalade. Orange juice not only has a fresh taste but is also rich in nutrients. Orange peel can also be used to make tea, which has the effects of clearing heat, detoxifying, lowering lipids, and aiding weight loss.
Side Effects of Oranges
Excessive consumption of oranges may irritate the gastrointestinal tract, leading to discomfort symptoms such as diarrhea and indigestion. In addition, people with symptoms like mouth ulcers should try to avoid eating acidic fruits.
The Application of Oranges in Traditional Chinese Medicine
Orange peel is one of the commonly used medicinal materials in TCM. Its nature is warm, and its taste is bitter and pungent. It can be used for effects such as promoting qi, resolving phlegm, and aiding digestion.
Pairing Oranges with Other Ingredients
Oranges can be paired with ingredients like shellfish, beef, and tomatoes to create various delicacies. For example, orange beef, orange shellfish, etc., not only have a delicious taste but also have the characteristic of being rich in nutrients.
How to Store Oranges
Oranges are a perishable fruit. When storing, they should be kept away from other fruits to avoid accelerating the rotting of the fruit. It is best to place them in a cool, ventilated place and consume them as soon as possible.
Precautions for Different Groups When Eating Oranges
Although oranges are rich in nutrients and have various health benefits, they are not suitable for everyone. For example, people with stomach problems, indigestion, and other symptoms should try to avoid eating oranges; while diabetics should consume them in moderation.
Tips for Selecting Oranges
When selecting oranges, choose high-quality fruits with smooth skin, bright color, firm flesh, and no spots. At the same time, pay attention to check if there are any signs of mold spots or wormholes inside the fruit.
The Relationship Between Oranges and Health
Eating oranges in moderation can promote health, lower blood pressure and blood lipids, and prevent diseases such as cancer. However, excessive consumption of oranges may cause a series of adverse symptoms.
Based on the analysis above, oranges have the characteristics of both cooling and heating fruits. The nature of an orange is not singular but varies from person to person. Different groups should choose the type of orange that suits their own constitution and needs.