3 Benefits of Eating The Bane of Citrus Fruits: The Citrus Pith

Citrus fruits as such lemons and oranges are a rich source of vitamins, especially of vitamin C. Arguably one of the most common fruits available (the other one being apple), they have become many people’s favourites. From fresh juice and flavoured teas to pastries or simply by eating the fruit itself, citrus fruits are versatile, delicious, and very healthy.

However, one thing about citrus fruits tends to irk people: the pith. The pith of citrus fruits refers to the white vein-like membrane that lines each slice of the fruits. They are bitter and can be a hassle to peel away. They can be eaten, but many prefer not too because of their bitterness. So, here are 3 the reasons why you should consume them with the tangy fruits:

1. They are rich sources of fibre

Citrus pith is rich in fibre that can help regulate your bowel movements. While the flesh also contains fibre, the pith is contains 30% of the fibre available in the fruit! Better bowel movements can help to detoxify and cleanse the body, and what’s not to like about that?

2. They are rich in vitamins and minerals

Citrus fruits are famous for its richness in vitamin C among other micronutrients. But do you know that the orange pith also contains a myriad of vitamins and minerals? Their wealth of goodness includes vitamin A, B5, and B6, calcium and thiamine. All these, and some more, can help to optimise body functions, improve immune system and promote general well-being.

3. They are a rich source of antioxidants

Every day, the internal body is getting attacked and damaged by things called free radicals. The free radicals are produced naturally due to biological and physiological processes in the body, but they can also be increased by an unfavourable environment that is filled with harmful chemicals. Citrus pith is rich in antioxidants that help to remove these free radicals. As a result, the body’s immune system is optimised and our bodies will be less susceptible to common sicknesses such as the cold, coughs and flus. It can even help lower the risk of cancers.

Orange pith may not be liked by everyone, but their benefits are not to be neglected. One way you can consume the pith even feeling the bitterness is to eat it together with the fruit. Citrus fruits have a strong tangy flavour and taste that can overpower the bitterness, making it easier to eat it. You can even add the pith when making smoothies for an extra boost of wellness. So next time when you have trouble removing the pith, simply stop and eat the fruit as a whole.