What is the white stuff in oranges?
That was one of the questions of the day in Tuesday’s “Health Mailbox” Wall Street Journal feature, admirably maintained by health columnist Tara Parker–Pope while she focuses on her upcoming book. The reader, whose initials are E.W., added, “Is there any nutritional reason to consume or avoid it? Ms. Parker–Pope responded: The white stringy stuff that most of us pick off our oranges is actually good for you. The fuzzy white layer of an orange is called the albeto layer and it contains pectin and other fibers that add to the nutritional benefits of oranges. The pectin and fiber in oranges can help curb your appetite and suppress hunger. One study showed that small amounts of pectin can curb appetite for up to four hours. Oranges have the highest fiber content among popular fruits and vegetables. One medium–sized orange offers seven grams of fiber. In addition, oranges are a good source of Vitamin C, folate, potassium and disease–fighting antioxidents. ******************** File this und
