Apples and oranges are among the most popular fruits in the world. Both are rich in nutrients, but many people wonder which is the healthier choice. Here is a comparison that will help you choose the next fruit to eat:
The fruit that has the least calories
The fruit that has more fiber
The fruit that has less sugar
Oranges contain less natural sugar than apples, making them a more suitable choice for those who lead a lifestyle that includes foods low in sugar or carbohydrates. One orange contains about 12 grams of sugar, and a medium apple with its peel contains about 19 grams of sugar.
The fruit that has more vitamins
Apples provide some nutrients that oranges do not have, especially vitamin K, which is essential for bone health. An apple contains 4 micrograms of vitamin K, but an orange has almost none of this vitamin. Apples also contain slightly higher amounts of manganese, a mineral essential for immune system function, blood clotting and metabolism.
The fruit that has more important nutrients
Oranges are known as a fruit rich in vitamin C, but they also contain a wider variety of nutrients compared to apples. Oranges provide almost 100% of the daily intake of vitamin C, along with vitamin B6, folic acid, calcium, copper and potassium, in quantities that exceed those found in apples.
The fruit that has more antioxidants
Apples are a rich source of the antioxidant quercetin – a medium-sized apple contains about 4 grams of it. This compound helps reduce inflammation, prevent cell damage, strengthen the immune system, and may even protect against certain chronic diseases. Apples also contain a variety of flavonoid compounds, another type of antioxidant not found in oranges.
So which one is better?
In the end, both apples and oranges are healthy and delicious fruits that you should eat, but oranges have a slight advantage in terms of nutritional value diversity and richness in vitamins and minerals, making them an excellent choice for a balanced diet. However, it is recommended that oranges be consumed in moderation, as they may cause acid reflux or adverse reactions with certain medications, and may also lead to rare allergic reactions in some people.