Does drinking orange juice make you gain weight?
Winter air is cold and dry, which can lead to various physical issues such as decreased immunity and skin dehydration. Eating seasonal fruits can not only supplement the body's needs but also boost immunity. Oranges are often considered a good choice due to their sweet and sour taste, juicy texture, and high nutritional value. However, some girls who are trying to lose weight may worry about gaining weight from eating oranges. So, does drinking orange juice lead to weight gain?
Firstly, eating orange juice in moderation does not cause weight gain and can even help with weight loss. Oranges are rich in nutrients and have a high water content. Their calorie level is moderate among fruits, and they contain high levels of dietary fiber, which can increase feelings of fullness. Eating more oranges can also help with bowel movements and detoxification. However, it is advisable to avoid eating oranges before bedtime as the stomach is nearly empty at this time, which is not conducive to absorbing nutrients and may lead to weight gain.
Secondly, eating oranges in winter has many benefits. Oranges are high in vitamins, especially vitamin C, which is beneficial for the absorption of nutrients by the nervous system and the brain. This can boost immunity and effectively prevent colds and influenza. One orange can provide the body with 75 milligrams of vitamin C, meeting the daily requirement for this vitamin with just one or two oranges. In addition, oranges contain calcium, phosphorus, iron, citric acid, hesperidin, carotene, and pectin, making them a nutritious choice. As a low-calorie fruit with high fiber content and natural sugars, oranges do not cause weight gain and can even help with detoxification and weight loss.
Moreover, oranges are a good source of natural fructose and have a hydrating effect, making them ideal for relieving thirst, refreshing the mind, and aiding in alcohol recovery. Freshly squeezed orange juice can also help to quickly replenish energy levels while relieving greasy food and indigestion.
For women, eating oranges can also help prevent gallstones. Estrogen can increase the concentration of cholesterol in the bile, leading to the formation of gallstones. However, the vitamin C in oranges can inhibit the conversion of cholesterol into bile acid, reducing the cholesterol concentration in the bile and thus decreasing the risk of gallstone formation. Additionally, the pectin in orange peels can accelerate the excretion of cholesterol from the body, so drinking orange peel tea can also help prevent gallstones.
However, there are also some precautions to be taken when eating oranges. Firstly, oranges should be avoided when taking certain medications such as vitamin K, sulfa drugs, and potassium supplements due to their high content of fruit acids and vitamin C. Secondly, people with a yin-deficient constitution should eat oranges sparingly as they can cause symptoms such as mouth ulcers, dry mouth, sore throat, and constipation. Thirdly, it is not advisable to eat oranges before meals or on an empty stomach as the organic acids in the fruit can irritate the gastric mucosa. Fourthly, oranges should not be eaten with radishes as the combination can interfere with thyroid function. Fifthly, oranges should not be consumed with milk as the proteins in milk can react with the fruit acids and vitamin C in oranges, leading to indigestion and other gastrointestinal symptoms. Finally, it is not recommended to use fresh orange peels for tea as they may contain residues of preservatives that cannot be easily washed off.
In conclusion, oranges are a nutritious and delicious fruit that can provide many benefits during the winter season. However, it is important to consume them in moderation and to be aware of any potential interactions with medications or health conditions. By following these guidelines, you can enjoy the taste and benefits of oranges without worrying about unwanted side effects.