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

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Synopsis

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

Oranges are a rich source of vitamin C (ascorbic acid), a nutrient that has been scientifically validated as important for gum (periodontal) health. Vitamin C is essential for the synthesis of collagen, a major structural protein in gum tissue, and its deficiency is well known to cause scurvy, which manifests as bleeding, inflamed, and receding gums. Multiple clinical and observational studies have found an association between adequate vitamin C intake and reduced risk of gingivitis and periodontal disease. For instance, a 2000 review in the Journal of Periodontology concluded that lower vitamin C intake is correlated with a higher risk of periodontal disease. Furthermore, some intervention studies have shown that supplementation with vitamin C can reduce gum bleeding in individuals with low baseline levels.

However, while vitamin C is necessary for gum health, there is limited evidence that consuming oranges specifically (as opposed to other vitamin C sources) provides unique or superior benefits. The overall evidence supports the importance of vitamin C-rich foods like oranges in maintaining healthy gums, but oranges themselves are not a targeted or traditional remedy for gum problems. They are, however, frequently recommended for their general contribution to oral and systemic health. Therefore, the use of orange to support gum health is scientifically justified, primarily due to its vitamin C content, but with moderate evidence.

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