Blood orange is a red-orange variety with dark red flesh. Compared to regular oranges, they taste less acidic, are slightly sweeter, and have hints of raspberry or strawberry.
Blood oranges are in season in winter and early spring, from about December through April. They thrive in Mediterranean climates, so they are primarily grown in California, Italy, and Spain.
Blood orange is a citrus fruit that looks similar to orange from the outside but has deep red colored fruit and juice. The red color results from anthocyanin, which develops when these citrus fruits ripen during warm days tempered with cooler nights.
Blood oranges are sweeter than other oranges. Their juice is delicious, but because it is quite a bit sweeter than classic orange juice, it ferments quickly and should be used or drunk the same day it's juiced.
One blood orange contains 75 percent of the daily recommended value of vitamin C. Blood oranges are also high in potassium and dietary fiber. A single blood orange contains about 70 calories. These fruits are packed with antioxidants as well.
Blood oranges are also high in fiber, which can triple weight loss, and pectin fiber in particular, which helps dieters feel more full. Blood oranges are also high in vitamin C, which may contribute to metabolism, during exercise.
Blood oranges are rich in antioxidants, which help reduce the stress of oxidation and lower your risk of chronic health problems like cancer, heart disease, and diabetes
The orange peels are rich in fiber, vitamin C, folate, vitamin B6, calcium, and other essential nutrients. The skin of the oranges contains a good amount of polyphenols that protect against several diseases. Peels have anti-cancerous properties due to limonene, a naturally occurring chemical.
According to The Right Balance from Australia, "Blood Oranges with color like no other, these bloodied splendors have long been revered for their natural beauty. What you may not know is they’re technically classified as a berry* (yes, really!); they’re at their absolute optimum onwards from August – a time when we can often be left uninspired as we wait to usher in the spring deluge of stone fruits and summer berries, and they pack a serious health punch.
Nutrition-wise, blood oranges are unique amongst citrus varieties. Compared with other citrus fruits, there are significant nutrient differences between blood oranges and other orange varieties. Beyond the alluring aesthetics, blood oranges offer health-promoting nutrients and traits with wide-ranging protective powers.
With nine times the antioxidants, double the Vitamin A of navel oranges. A raft of polyphenols (potent plant chemicals) that regular oranges don’t have, they outclass their citrus cousins for their health-promoting benefits with one blood orange equivalent to eating a whole bag (around 2 kilograms) of navels to get the same hit of antioxidants."
Blood oranges are a healthy addition to a balanced diet. They are a good source of vitamins and nutrients, including:
Vitamin C helps support a healthy immune system and protect against cellular damage.
Fiber promotes healthy digestion and can help regulate blood sugar levels.
Potassium: helps regulate blood pressure and supports heart health.
Folate: essential for cell growth and development.
Antioxidants help protect against cellular damage and chronic disease.
In addition to these nutrients, blood oranges are relatively low in calories, making them an excellent option for those watching their calorie intake.
It's important to remember that, like all foods, blood oranges should be consumed in moderation as part of a balanced diet that includes a variety of fruits and vegetables. Overconsumption of any fruit can lead to excessive sugar and other nutrients, which can negatively affect health.