Oranges are available in different types and the calorie content in these fruits may vary with the type and size. Read on to know more about the calories in blood oranges.
Oranges are undoubtedly among the most delicious as well as nutritious fruits in the world. As these fruits have a high water content, their calorie content is found to be low. However, the calorie count of oranges may vary with the type of orange, time of their harvest, the form of consumption, etc. This article deals with the calorie content in blood oranges.
Blood Orange Calories
As mentioned above, the calories in oranges may change with the type, size, time of harvest and form of consumption. For example, calories in navel orange may not be similar to that of Valencia orange or blood orange. A small orange may have lesser calories, as compared to a larger one. Calories in a plain raw orange will be lesser than its sweetened or concentrated juice.
In general, the calorific value of a medium-sized blood orange may range between 69 to 80 calories. The calorie count in almost all types of blood oranges are in the similar range. Moro oranges may have a slightly high calorific value, as compared to others like Tarocco. As far as blood orange juice is concerned, eight ounces may amount to 110 calories. If you are consuming blood orange in the form of cocktails, salads or any other form, the calorific value will increase, as per the ingredients in that particular drink or dish.
Nutritional Benefits
It is a common fact that blood orange is so named after its crimson colored flesh. This flesh color of blood orange is due to the presence of pigments named anthocyanins. These pigments are said to be healthy for humans, as they have strong antioxidant properties. Apart from that, blood oranges contain considerable amounts of vitamin C, folic acid, vitamin A, calcium, thiamine and various other nutrients. With their antioxidant properties, anthocyanins are said to be beneficial in lowering the risk of heart diseases and certain types of cancer. These compounds are useful in lowering high blood cholesterol levels. Anthocyanins have anti-inflammatory properties too.
As we all know, vitamin C is another powerful antioxidant that is found in good amount in citrus fruits. Vitamin C is good for promoting various metabolic functions in the body and for improving absorption of calcium. This vitamin is also an immune system booster and is believed to reduce the risk of cancer. Folic acid is good for production of red blood cells in the body and to prevent birth defects. Above all, as in other oranges, blood oranges too are rich in dietary fiber, which is good for the digestive system.
One medium-sized orange may contain around 15 grams of carbohydrates, 14 grams of sugar, three grams dietary fiber and one gram protein. It will also provide with around 130% of the daily value of vitamin C required by an average person and around 260 grams of potassium. Other nutrients include iron, calcium, B vitamins, vitamin A, folic acid, magnesium, selenium and manganese.
In general, oranges are good for health and blood oranges are no exception to that. You may include it in your diet and reap its goodness. But, if you are a calorie conscious person, you can plan accordingly. Blood oranges are low in calories, but, the calorific value may increase, if you sweeten it or use it with other high calorie ingredients. It is also advisable to use fresh oranges or freshly squeezed juice instead or commercial preparations.
