Eating orange peels, these are the benefits and side effects for health

Unlike the sweet and refreshing flesh of the fruit, the orange peel tastes sour and bitter, so it is not commonly consumed. This is why orange peel is more often used as a grater to add flavor and aroma to dishes. However, can you actually eat fruit and orange peels at the same time?

Benefits of eating orange peels

Eating orange peels may sound strange, given its unusual texture and taste. However, orange peels are basically safe to eat. Orange peels can also provide the following benefits:

1. Maintain heart health

The highest nutrient content in orange peels is fiber, vitamins and minerals. One hundred grams of orange peel contains 11 grams of fiber, while one tablespoon of orange peels contains vitamin C with 3 times the amount of the pulp.

Launching a study in a journal Advances in Nutrition, a diet high in fiber and vitamin C is beneficial for heart health. Fiber can lower cholesterol, while vitamin C protects the heart and blood vessels from free radical damage.

2. Reducing the risk of various diseases

Orange peels are rich in antioxidant compounds called polyphenols. This compound is able to protect body cells from free radical damage and inflammation. Polyphenols can also trigger an immune system response and stimulate cell growth.

Thanks to these benefits, eating orange peels is believed to reduce the risk of various diseases. Among them are heart disease, digestive problems, decreased nerve function, type 2 diabetes, inflammation of the pancreas, and several types of cancer.

3. Maintain healthy teeth

Orange peels contain antibacterial compounds and minerals in the form of phosphorus and calcium. Antibacterial compounds are useful for preventing plaque formation and cavities, while phosphorus and calcium are needed to maintain healthy bones and teeth.

Not only that, but orange peels also have a compound called limonene. Limonene is alleged to be able to whiten teeth naturally, because this compound dissolves the dirt that sticks to the surface of the teeth.

Side effects of eating orange peels

Orange peels do provide your body with fiber, vitamins, and even various compounds that can reduce the risk of various diseases. However, consuming large amounts of orange peel is also not recommended due to the following reasons:

1. Contains pesticides

If you eat orange peels in excess, you also run the risk of being exposed to large amounts of pesticides. Long-term exposure to pesticides can interfere with hormone function, and is even thought to increase the risk of cancer.

So, limit your consumption of orange peels so as not too much or too often. Also, don't forget to wash the oranges with warm water before eating to reduce the pesticides that stick to them.

2. Odd taste and texture

This may be the reason why not many people like to eat orange peels. Orange peels have a hard and dry texture, making it difficult to chew. The taste is bitter, so it is less appetizing.

3. Difficult to digest

The high fiber content in orange peels is indeed beneficial, but this also makes orange peels difficult to digest. If you eat large amounts of it, the peels may cause stomach upset, bloating, and discomfort.

Orange peels are not only useful for adding flavor and aroma to dishes. By consuming it, you can also get fiber, vitamins, minerals, and various compounds that protect your body from disease.

However, do pay attention to how much orange peel you eat. To be safe, just add a little grated orange peel in the dish, oatmeal, salad, or hot tea. Don't eat orange peels if your stomach feels uncomfortable afterward.