Before You Throw Away That Orange Peel, Read This

The ritual is second nature: you dig a thumb into the vibrant orange peel, releasing a citrusy mist as you carve away the skin to get to the sweet fruit inside. Then, without a second thought, the peel goes into the trash or compost. We treat it as a disposable wrapper for the main event.

But what if that discarded peel was more than just waste? What if it held its own unique set of nutritional benefits? Based on scientific research, the part of the orange we so often throw away contains some surprising advantages for our health. This article will uncover three unexpected nutritional benefits hidden within the orange peel.

1. A Surprising Source of Hydration

While we prize the juicy flesh for its hydrating qualities, the peel is where the vast majority of the orange's water is stored. A whole orange contains about 87 grams of water, but a staggering 73 grams of that is locked within the part we throw away. That means over 80% of the orange's total water content resides in the peel, making it an unexpected contributor to your daily hydration needs.

2. A Boost for Your Gut Microbiome

Orange peels contain prebiotics, which are compounds that support a healthy gut microbiome. Think of prebiotics as the fertilizer for the garden of your gut, helping the good bacteria (the 'plants') to flourish. By providing fuel for beneficial bacteria, these prebiotics help create a thriving internal ecosystem essential for nutrient absorption and overall digestive harmony.

3. A Natural Aid for Healthy Digestion

Beyond prebiotics, orange peels are an excellent source of a soluble fiber called pectin. Pectin helps slow down the digestive process, which can increase feelings of fullness and allow for more stable energy release, while also supporting regular bowel movements. This fiber content makes the peel a natural way to promote a healthy and well-functioning digestive system.

From foundational hydration to the intricate support of your gut microbiome with prebiotics and the promotion of regularity with pectin, the humble orange peel offers a surprising trio of benefits. It serves as a reminder that valuable nutrition can often be found in the parts of food we are quickest to discard.

The next time you enjoy an orange, will you see the peel as waste, or as a wellness opportunity?