Oranges are one of the most popular fruits in the world, people use it for weight loss, for upset stomachs, to improve the immune system, and increase performance. But one thing a lot of people wonder is “can we eat or should we eat orange peels?”

How Healthy Are Orange Peels?

Oranges are juicy sweet citrus fruits that are known for being high in vitamin C. 1 tablespoon of orange peel provides 14 percent of the daily value of vitamin c, which is nearly 3 times more than the actual orange. Orange peels are rich in several nutrients such as Vitamin C, fiber, and plant compounds such as polyphenols.

Studies show that people who consume a lot of vitamin C and fiber have better heart and digestive health. It also helps people protect against certain types of cancer. Orange peel also contains good amounts of provitamin A, folate, riboflavin, thiamine, vitamin B6, and calcium.

Orange peels are rich in Polyphenols, which helps prevent and manage many chronic conditions such as obesity, Alzheimer’s disease, and type 2-diabetes. A study found out that orange peels are a good source of polyphenols hesperidin and polymethoxyflavones, which have potential anticancer effects.

Orange peels also contain limonene, a chemical that helps offer protection against skin cancer.

Possible Downsides Of Orange Peels

Orange peels may contain pesticide residue, which is used on fruits such as oranges to help protect against mold and insects. The actual orange under the peels have very low levels of pesticides, but the peels contain significantly higher amounts. Intake of pesticide is linked with negative health effects, which includes increased risk of cancer and hormone dysfunction.

Another downside with eating orange peels is they are hard to digest. Due to their tough texture and high fiber content, orange peels can be very hard to digest. When you eat them, you can feel instant stomach discomfort, cramps, and even bloating.

Another downside with eating orange peels is they are not delicious. Unlike the inner fruit of an orange, the peel has a tough, dry texture that is very hard to digest. And it is extremely bitter.

Conclusion

Orange peels are often thrown away even if they are rich in nutrients such as polyphenols, fiber, vitamin C, and limonene. But remember, they are bitter, very hard to digest, which can trigger stomach discomfort and extreme pain, and have high levels of pesticide residues. Even if you can soften the peels and removed the pesticide residues by rinsing them under hot water, consuming orange peels is not advised by doctors.

The health benefits that you get from eating orange peels can be sustained by consuming other fruits, vegetables, and food products that are available in the market.