Indulge in citrus fruits to curb chronic inflammation, improve immunity

(Avataraline.it) Anti-oxidants found in citrus fruits can help curb chronic inflammation, one of the leading factors in major health issues like cancer and heart diseases, says the latest study from Journal of Nutrition.

According to researchers, women with diet packed with high anti-oxidant rich citrus fruits had lower levels of certain inflammation markers.

For the study, scientists studied the eating habits of nearly 1600 women, and found that women with highest intake of citrus-fruit antioxidants, including flavanoids, had lower levels of the inflammatory chemical interleukin-8. It was also discovered that higher intake of grapefruit is associated with lower levels of the C-reactive protein (a marker for inflammation).

The flavanoids that are otherwise found in citrus fruits include naringenin, a compound found in regulating metabolism, which also protects the body against obesity, diabetes, and metabolic syndrome. The compound naringenin, is also thought to keep cholesterol under check and prevent insulin resistance.

Citrus fruits are the most popular kind of fruits, and it has been long considered to have the natural ability to promote immunity and boost overall wellbeing. All citrus fruits are packed with Vitamin C (ascorbic acid), which is primarily essential for prevention of Scurvy. The Vitamin C content in citrus fruits is vital for healthy teeth, detoxification of blood stream, good absorption of iron by the body, and for lowering likelihood of high blood pressure, heart diseases and cancer, and for boosting the immune system.

Although Orange is the most common and popular citrus fruit in the world, there are several other citrus fruits that have immense health benefits including lemon, tangerine, mandarin, Clementine, grapefruit, tangelo, pummel, Satsuma, Minneola, and Ugli.

Apart from just enjoying them as fruits, the essential oils extracted from citrus fruits have been of immense help in the field of aromatherapy. This is particularly due to the specific aroma that citrus fruits exhibit, and its corresponding effect on the body.

Irrespective of the citrus essential oil used, the vitamin C content of citrus oils help in eliminating free radicals, restoring firmness and suppleness of skin, and reversing signs of aging. The chemical compounds found in citrus essential oils have been scientifically proven to lower blood cholesterol levels, detoxify liver and balance the sugar content in blood. The acidic content of the citrus essential oil helps in cleansing and eliminating blockages in the intestine, while the great aroma of citrus essential oils help in invigorating one’s senses, acting as great mood stabilizers.

On the whole, sufficient amount of vitamin c is vital for proper functioning of human body, and no more evidence is required to prove this fact! (by Ayurveditalk.com)

Posted in: