According to Traditional Chinese Medicine, oranges are sweet and sour in flavor, and cool in nature. They enter the Lung and Stomach meridians. They have the medicinal effects of moistening the lungs, stopping coughs, resolving phlegm, strengthening the spleen, regulating qi, and quenching thirst. They are an excellent fruit for people of all ages and genders, especially the elderly and those with acute or chronic bronchitis and cardiovascular diseases. However, although oranges are beneficial, there are certain precautions to take when consuming them.
1. Do not eat on an empty stomach
While oranges have many benefits, they should be eaten regularly but not excessively. It is also recommended not to eat oranges on an empty stomach because the pulp contains a certain amount of organic acid, which can easily irritate the gastric mucosa.
2. Do not eat with radishes
After radishes enter the human body, they rapidly produce a substance called sulfate, which is quickly metabolized into an anti-thyroid substance called thiocyanate. If oranges are consumed at this time, the flavonoids in the oranges are broken down in the intestines and converted into salicylic acid and ferulic acid. These substances can enhance the inhibitory effect of thiocyanate on the thyroid, affecting thyroid function.
3. Avoid eating oranges when taking medication
Oranges are rich in fruit acid and vitamin C. They should be avoided when taking vitamin K, sulfonamides, spironolactone, and potassium supplements.
4. Those with a Yin-deficient constitution should eat less
Oranges are warm in nature. Eating too many can easily lead to "heatiness," especially in individuals with a Yin-deficient and Yang-excess constitution. It is best to eat fewer oranges, otherwise symptoms such as canker sores, dry mouth, a sore throat, and constipation may occur.
5. Do not eat with milk
The protein in milk can easily react with the fruit acid and vitamin C in oranges, affecting digestion and absorption, and can also cause symptoms such as bloating and diarrhea. Milk should not be consumed within 1 hour before or after eating oranges.
6. Do not drink tea with fresh orange peel
Most oranges are treated with preservatives before being put on the market, and these are difficult to wash off with water. Brewing tea with such orange peels can be detrimental to your health.