1. Elevates Mood

Citrus fruits have much aromatherapeutic value, mainly in that, it assists in elevating and uplifting the mood. It contains essential oils and compounds that target certain areas of the brain that assist with mood-brightening.

2. Gives You Whole Food Based Vitamins vs. Synthetic Vitamins

Citrus is particularly high in Vitamin C. When you get your vitamin C from a food source like citrus fruits, you are consuming “whole food-based vitamins,” as opposed to synthetic vitamins that are made in a lab. You see, when you take 1000 mg of ascorbic acid, you are not receiving the entire vitamin C molecule. Instead, you are receiving like half of it…and you’re body actually has to scavenge around to look for other ingredients/components to construct the complete vitamin c molecule. You might think of taking ascorbic acid (commonly found in non-whole food based vitamins), as only consuming the body of something but not arms and legs for it to get anywhere. I hope that makes sense:)

3. Boosts Immune System

Citrus fruits contain immune-boosting compounds such as quercetin, a plant flavonoid with anti-inflammatory properties.

4. Helps You Hydrate Better via “Gel Water”

Citrus fruits are approximately 85% water and can help you stay hydrated. In addition, the water contained within fruits and vegetables is a type of “gel water” likened to “structured water,” which has many beneficial health components beyond regular water. If you want to learn more about “gel water,” you can take a look at the book Quench, by Dr. Dana Cohen.

5. May Protect Against Cancer

Several studies note the anti-oxidant properties in citrus fruits may protect against cancer. In addition, these beneficial properties may assist in reducing new formation of carcinogens in the body. It has been noted at lemons in particular, are not only deeply cleansing and detoxifying, but also contain the most alkalizing property of most any food. And cancer likes to thrive in acidic environments.

6. Supports Radiant Skin

Citrus fruits contain a good amount of vitamin C which assists in supporting healthy skin and building collagen. Quick tip: whenever you take your collagen, assure you take some vitamin C along with it. Taking vitamin C along with collagen at the same time encourages the body to make collagen, as opposed to other types of components.

7. Aids Digestion

Citrus fruits are a good source of the soluble fiber pectin and assists in drawing water into the colon, helping to balance out the intestinal tract and alleviating such things as constipation.

For a health-boosting veggie dessert, try this Citrus Beet Salad or this popular low-calorie, hydrating Cucumber Dill Salad