Citrus is still in season, and what could be a better time for all of that vitamin C than in the middle of winter? Here are some of the ways to use citrus for staying healthy.
Peel Away Cholesterol
In Chinese cuisine, orange peel is often served as an accompaniment to red meat. The reason for this is that according to Chinese medicine, orange peel facilitates the digestion of rich, fatty foods. In fact, orange peel may actually lower cholesterol better than some of the current medications on the market-without all the side effects. Polymethosylated flavones (PMFs), compounds found in pigments of oranges and tangerines, have been shown by studies to reduce bad cholesterol (LDL) without altering the level of good cholesterol (HDL). When preparing a dish that's on the fatty side, make sure one of the ingredients is orange peel.
Orange Juice for Healthy Bones
Calcium and vitamin D are both critical for bone health. Bone loss is a slow, inevitable part of the aging process. If bone loss progresses too quickly, it can lead to life-threatening bone fractures. Cow's milk has traditionally been credited as the number-one food for strong bones, but many people have bad reactions to lactose. Studies are now showing that your body is able to absorb calcium and vitamin D from orange juice just as it does from milk. Orange juice is not only good for your bones-it is also chock full of vitamin C, a very potent antioxidant.
Winter Fruit Salad
This is a very pretty fruit salad that makes good use of wintertime fresh fruits. Grapefruits are a great aid in digestion; they strengthen the stomach and circulate the Qi. The dark red skin of the cranberries contains flavonoids that are powerful antioxidants and have bacteria-fighting properties.
Makes about 3 cups or 4 servings
Ingredients:
- 2 medium grapefruits
- 1/2 cup honey
- 1/4 cup marmalade
- 1 cup fresh cranberries
- 2 medium or 1 large banana
Directions:
- Section a grapefruit over a bowl, saving the juice. Add enough water to the juice to measure 1/2 cup.
- In a medium saucepan, combine the 1/2 cup of fresh grapefruit juice, with the honey and marmalade. Bring to a boil, stirring to dissolve the honey and marmalade. Then reduce the heat.
- Add fresh cranberries, cooking and stirring for 3-5 minutes until their skins pop.
- Remove saucepan from heat and cool. Add grapefruit sections and chill.
- Just before serving, slice the bananas and stir into the chilled grapefruit mixture.
May you live long, live strong, and live happy!
- Dr. Mao
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To learn more about Dr. Mao and other natural health tips, go to askdrmao.com.
To purchase Dr. Mao's book, "Secrets of Longevity," click here.
