Eating an Orange a Day May Lower Risk of Mouth, Throat & Stomach Cancers

ISLAMABAD: A new medical review from Australia suggests that eating an orange daily could significantly reduce the risk of mouth, throat, and stomach cancers. The study highlights the powerful nutrients found in citrus fruits and reinforces the long-known benefits of including fruits and vegetables in the daily diet.

Researchers analyzed 48 studies from around the world and found that citrus fruits may also help manage arterial disease, obesity, and diabetes. The review noted that consuming citrus fruits daily, along with five servings of fruits and vegetables, could reduce the risk of heart attack by 19 percent.

Oranges are rich in antioxidants, which protect the body from cell damage and disease. They contain essential vitamins like C, B, A, and E, along with calcium, magnesium, potassium, phosphorus, and natural sugars. Vitamin C, which the body cannot produce, is particularly important for strengthening immunity.

The fiber in oranges aids digestion and promotes regular bowel movements, while orange juice, which is about 85 percent water, helps keep the body hydrated. Studies also suggest that drinking orange juice may reduce stress and lower the risk of gallstones by breaking down cholesterol.

Interestingly, orange peels contain compounds such as Polymethoxylated Flavones (PMF), tangeretin, and nobiletin, which may help reduce harmful cholesterol more effectively than some medicines and support gut health by promoting healthy intestinal bacteria.

Experts say that including oranges and other citrus fruits in the daily diet offers a simple, natural way to improve overall health while potentially reducing the risk of several serious diseases.