Evidence supporting the use of: Orange
For the body system: Capillaries

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Synopsis

Source of validity: Scientific
Rating (out of 5): 3

Oranges are often associated with supporting capillary health due to their high content of vitamin C (ascorbic acid) and various bioflavonoids, particularly hesperidin and rutin. Scientific studies have established that vitamin C plays a vital role in collagen synthesis, which is essential for maintaining the structural integrity of blood vessels, including capillaries. Deficiency in vitamin C can lead to weakened capillaries, causing easy bruising and bleeding, as observed in scurvy. Additionally, citrus bioflavonoids found in oranges have demonstrated, in some clinical and preclinical studies, the ability to strengthen capillary walls and reduce capillary fragility. For instance, hesperidin has shown vasoprotective effects and is sometimes used in combination with vitamin C to improve capillary permeability and resistance.

However, while the role of vitamin C in capillary health is well established, direct clinical evidence specifically linking the consumption of oranges to improved capillary function is less robust. Most evidence is extrapolated from studies on isolated compounds. Nonetheless, the scientific basis for recommending oranges or their components for capillary health is sound, largely due to their vitamin C and bioflavonoid content. Therefore, the use of orange to support the capillary system has moderate scientific support, particularly when considering its nutrient profile and the established benefits of those nutrients on vascular health.

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