Are you wondering about the nutritional value of one ounce of orange peel? A single ounce of orange peel is approximately 27 calories. However, it is not just calories that make it an interesting ingredient to explore. In this article, we will discuss how orange peel can offer numerous health benefits and practical ways to incorporate it into your cooking.
Orange peel is packed with nutrients that you may not know about. Just one ounce of orange peel contains 14% of your daily recommended intake of vitamin C, 6% of your daily recommended intake of vitamin A, and 3% of your daily recommended intake of calcium.
In this article, we will dive deep into the health benefits of orange peel and share ways to use it for cooking that you may not have considered before.
The Nutritional Value of 1 Oz Orange Peel
As mentioned earlier, one ounce of orange peel contains plenty of vitamins and minerals like vitamin C, A, and calcium. What's more, orange peel contains fiber which is essential for digestion and gut health. Fiber can also make you feel fuller, longer which can be helpful if you are trying to lose weight. Orange peel also contains anti-inflammatory and anti-oxidative compounds that can help to fight against various diseases. Overall, orange peel is a nutrient-dense ingredient that can be a healthy addition to your diet.
Health Benefits of Orange Peel
Orange peel contains many compounds with various health benefits. First, hesperidin, a compound found in orange peel, has been shown to have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. This compound may help to lower blood pressure and improve heart health. Additionally, orange peel contains pectin which can help to regulate cholesterol levels. Pectin can help to lower bad cholesterol levels and raise good cholesterol levels in the body. Finally, orange peel also contains limonene, a compound that may help to prevent certain types of cancer. Overall, there are many good reasons to include orange peel in your diet.
Different Ways to Use Orange Peel for Cooking
Orange peel can be a versatile and flavorful ingredient to add to your cooking. You can add grated orange peel to salads, baked goods, and even main dishes like stir-fry's. You can also use orange peel to infuse flavor into cocktails, marinades, and sauces. Finally, you can candy orange peel by simmering it in simple syrup and then drying it out. There are countless ways to use orange peel in the kitchen, and experimenting with it can be a fun way to add new flavors to your meals.
Can Orange Peel Help You Lose Weight?
Orange peel can be a great choice if you are looking to lose weight. As mentioned earlier, the fiber in orange peel can help you feel fuller for longer which can lead to reduced calorie intake overall. Additionally, orange peel contains a compound called synephrine which has been shown to increase metabolic rate and burn fat. While orange peel alone won't be a magic weight loss cure, it can be a helpful addition to an overall healthy diet and lifestyle.
How Much Orange Peel Should You Eat in a Day?
Just like with any food, moderation is key when it comes to orange peel. While it is a healthy ingredient, too much can lead to negative side effects (which we'll discuss later in the article). A good rule of thumb is to aim for no more than one teaspoon of orange zest or peel per day. This small amount can add flavor and nutrition to your meals without overdoing it.
Tips for Storing Orange Peel
If you have leftover orange peel, you may be wondering how to store it properly. Orange peel can dry out quickly, so it's important to keep it in an airtight container in the fridge. You can also freeze orange peel for later use. When storing orange peel, it's important to keep in mind that the longer it sits, the more flavor it will lose. Try to use your orange peel within a week if possible for optimal flavor.
Possible Side Effects of Eating Orange Peel
While orange peel is generally considered safe to eat, there are some potential side effects to be aware of. First, orange peel contains essential oils that can irritate the digestive system for some people. If you have a sensitive stomach, you may want to avoid eating large amounts of orange peel. Additionally, orange peel contains a substance called histamine which can trigger allergic reactions in certain people. If you have a known allergy to citrus fruits, you may want to avoid orange peel altogether.
Orange Peel vs. Orange Juice: Which is Healthier?
Both orange peel and orange juice offer health benefits, but they are not created equal. Orange peel contains more fiber and antioxidants than orange juice, but orange juice contains more vitamin C. If you are looking to add more fiber and antioxidants to your diet, orange peel may be the better choice. If you are looking to boost your vitamin C intake, orange juice may be a better option.
Orange Peel Tea Recipe: A Delicious Way to Enjoy the Benefits
One easy and delicious way to enjoy the benefits of orange peel is to make orange peel tea. Here's a simple recipe to get you started:
- 1 tbsp dried orange peel
- 1 tsp honey
- 1 cinnamon stick
- 2 cups of water
Simply combine all the ingredients in a pot and bring to a boil. Let it simmer for 10-15 minutes, then strain and enjoy!
Frequently Asked Questions about Orange Peel
Q: Can you eat orange peel raw?
A: While it is safe to eat orange peel raw, it can be tough to chew and may be unpleasant to eat on its own. Grating or finely chopping the peel can make it more palatable. Q: Can you eat the white part of orange peel?
A: The white part of the orange peel, also known as the pith, is safe to eat but has a bitter taste. Most people prefer to remove the pith before using orange peel in their cooking. Q: Can you use orange peel instead of lemon peel?
A: Yes! Orange peel can be a great substitute for lemon peel in most recipes.
Orange peel can be a nutrient-dense ingredient that can be a healthy addition to your diet.
5 FAQs about Orange Peel calories
What are orange peel calories?
Orange peel calories refer to the number of calories present in one ounce of orange peel. Orange peel is the outer skin of an orange fruit and is high in fiber and nutrients, but it also contains calories.
How many calories are in one ounce of orange peel?
One ounce of orange peel contains 27 calories. This may seem like a small amount, but it can add up quickly if you consume large amounts of orange peel.
What are the nutritional benefits of orange peel?
Orange peel is rich in fiber, vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants that can benefit your health. It can help improve digestion, boost your immune system, reduce inflammation, and lower your risk of chronic diseases, such as heart disease and cancer.
Is it safe to eat orange peel?
Yes, it is safe to eat orange peel in small amounts. However, you should wash the orange thoroughly before eating the peel to remove any dirt or pesticide residues. You should also remove the white spongy part of the peel, as it can be bitter and difficult to digest.
How can I incorporate orange peel into my diet?
You can add orange peel to your smoothies, salads, or baked goods, such as muffins and cakes. You can also use orange zest (grated orange peel) to flavor your dishes, such as pasta, rice, or vegetables. Just be mindful of the amount you consume, as it contains calories.