Health Benefits of Orange Zest

Most of us know the many benefits of including oranges in our diets. Oranges are loaded with Vitamin C, which is an important treatment for cancers and is required for many important bodily functions. Oranges provide fiber and are helpful in controlling blood sugar and insulin. Oranges should be included as a part of every diet. But, did you know that the orange peel that most of us toss in the trash also contains health benefits.

Orange peel, or more specifically, orange zest (the shavings of the orange portion of the peel), contain a unique flavonoid called hesperidin. Hesperidin helps to lower LDL cholesterol (the bad stuff), lower triglycerides (fats found in the blood) and reduces the risk of heart disease. An added benefit is in normalizing blood pressure. Studies also show that hesperidin is helpful in reducing bone loss, acts as an anti-inflammatory and is good for fighting some types of cancer, especially breast cancer. (more…)