The domestic navel orange is highly recommended…

No one can give an excuse for not eating an Orange, because oranges are one of the common fruits grown and accessed in this beautiful country of PNG. Oranges come from the line of citrus fruits and is originated from China, and better grown in hot places (Tropical), but in Papua New Guinea it is commonly grown in the highlands¹. There are different varieties of oranges including the mandarin, seedless naval orange, valencia, blood orange and the bitter seville orange (often used for making marmalade)².

Often oranges are not eaten as it should be. When eating an orange the inner peel (mesocarp) of the 2nd layer (white part under the skin) should also be eaten including the pulp fiber, if it is chewable. Oranges should be eaten fresh and not kept overtime because it may lose its potency¹.

Composition:

The oranges contents almost most of the vitamins for a good health, vitamins such as, A, B₁ ,B₂, B₁₂, C & E, Protein, Iron, Niacin, Zinc, Potassium, Folate, Fiber, Phosphorus, Calcium and more… Professor Step conducts most of his studies on vitamins said; “A natural orange is superior to any pharmaceutical preparation as a source of vitamin C”¹.

Benefits^1,2:

• Its high content of folate is essential for proper development of the fetal nervous system.
• It is an antioxidant, and is necessary to boost the capabilities of the defensive cells (Leukocytes or white blood cells) to avoid certain cancers.
• Its content of citric acid (activates vitamin C) assists in eliminating of toxics sediments such as uric acid.
• Contain pectin which assists in lowering blood cholesterol levels
• Helps make the blood more fluid and improve circulation, because of the flavonoids in oranges, leading to low risks of developing arteriosclerosis, arterial thrombosis and heart diseases.
• Also, lowers Blood Pressure.
• Essential for healthy skin because of its Vitamin C content.

Therefore, we are encouraged to consume oranges often as we can upon regular bases, and that includes eating the all 3 layers of the orange, remember to wash it first. The preferable orange to eat the all 3 layers is the seedless naval orange.

References:

1. Pamplona-Roger,G.D (2010) Encyclopedia of Foods and their health power, Education and Health Library, Thailand, vol.2, pg.360.

2. Sanders, T., Walker, A.F., Lakin, A., Ashwell, M., Bean, A.,Brostoff, J., Meredith, S., Salder, M., Steward, C., Straten, M.A.V., Toynbee, M., Vennegoor, M., & Wet, M.d, (2010) Foods that Harm Foods that Heal, An A-Z guide to safe and healthy eating. Surry Hills, New South Wales,Australia, Readers Digest.

Bananas are loaded with several essential nutrients and minerals, more.. http://www.buzzle.com/articles/banana-nutrition-facts.html

Decrease risk of stroke and Lower blood pressure

Scientifically proven that with its best source of potassium may significantly lower risk of high blood pressure and related diseases like heart attack and stroke. Magnesium which aid in maintaining normal blood pressure and are heart protective.

Bananas are energy and mood balancing:

Another benefit to bananas high potassium content derives from that mineral's role as an energy-supplying electrolyte. Since bananas also contain tryptophan, serotonin and norepinephrine, they help prevent depression while encouraging feelings of well-being and relaxation. In addition, the vitamin B6 in bananas helps protect against sleeplessness, mood swings and irritability

Bananas can relieve heartburn:

A few studies have identified that banana may be helpful for preventing and treating stomach ulcer, but more research is needed. Bananas have an antacid effect and are said to protect against stomach ulcers.Bananas suppress acid in the digestive tract, alleviating heartburn and helping guard against ulcers. Since bananas contain pectin, a soluble fiber, they aid in the elimination process, helping prevent constipation.

Bananas improve nerve function and enhances brain power:

Banana is a rich source of B vitamins and therefore perks up nerve function.  Potassium, in banana keeps the mental faculties vigilant and boosts learning abilities.

Bananas help regulate anemia:

Bananas are good for anemic patients as they contain high levels of iron which help regulate the hemoglobin levels in the body.

Bananas help withdraw smoking urge:

Vitamins B6 and B12 along with magnesium and Potassium in Bananas helps recover from nicotine addiction.

Bananas Prevent Insomnia:

Bananas are rich in amino acids known as Tryptophan. This substance triggers production of melatonin (sleep hormone) which induces sleep.  Eating banana a few hours before bedtime ensures a peaceful night’s sleep.