Consumption of orange fruits and vegetables has been linked with favorable health outcomes including lower risks of cancer and heart disease. What's the secret? Among other nutrients they contain, the trick lies in a substance called carotene.

Oxidative damages are a natural effect of metabolism and the process of aging. Excessive oxidation of DNA, proteins and lipids have been associated with increased risks of chronic diseases.

Carotenes (and its siblings including beta-carotene and lycopene) are antioxidants. Antioxidants, as the name suggest, act as active cleaners to scavenge these excessive oxidation byproducts. This protects us from preventable damages and slows the process of aging. The body produces substances that protect itself against oxidative damages. Nevertheless, some synergy from additional dietary intake doesn’t hurt.

Citrus Fruits

Oranges, grapefruits and tangerines are loaded with Vitamin C, one of the most powerful antioxidants known to date. Vitamin C also helps to fight infection and reduces the risk of contracting unwanted diseases.

Citrus fruits are also rich in folate, an important factor in preventing neural tube diseases in infants. Furthermore, citrus fruits are rich in fiber, lycopene and potassium. They are also loaded with phytonutrients and many of them are flavonoids (another family of antioxidants.)

Vitamin C is water-soluble and dislikes heat. To get the most Vitamin C from an orange, eating it raw (as a fruit or juice) is the best choice. One orange or grapefruit a day can fully satisfy the daily recommended intake of Vitamin C. Have an orange a day, starting today.