Oranges are thought to have originated in the tropical regions of Asia, particularly the East Indies. It’s believed its cultivation spread from India, to the East coast of Africa and then to the eastern Mediterranean regions. Roman conquests and the popularity of Arab trade routes played a large role in the dispersal and popularity of Oranges.
By the time Christopher Columbus set sail, orange trees were already growing in the Canary Islands.
Prior to the 1920s, oranges were mainly considered and consumed as a dessert. However, once its health benefits became popularised, there grew an appreciation for this delicious fruit. The most common product made from oranges is, orange juice.
Oranges, like other citrus fruit, contain an abundance of vitamins, in particular, vitamin C and it is this amazing water soluble vitamin that has a positive influence on Gout.
Gout occurs due to an accumulation of uric acid in the body. This uric acid tends to be triggered by foods containing purines (red meat, offal, red wine, seafood). The way vitamin C works is by lowering the uric acid levels in the blood and providing less favourable environment for gout to develop. There is promising evidence to suggest that at least 1000mg per day of vitamin C, can reduce uric acid levels and aid with the relief of gout.
Although you would need to consume an abundance of oranges to obtain a great benefit for gout, it is still recommended to consume oranges on a daily basis and follow a low purine diet to reduce all round, uric acid levels.
About The Author - Annmarie Cannone
Annmarie is a highly qualified Naturopath and Nutritionist having graduated from the University of Western Sydney with both undergraduate and post graduate degrees and holds a Master’s Degree in Human Nutrition.