Welcome to the ninth issue of “Fun Facts on Nutrition You’d Never Guess!” Are you ready for some fascinating food facts? Then let’s begin!
- Oranges Aren’t Naturally Orange
Oranges aren’t always orange. In tropical regions, the warm weather prevents the peel from turning orange, so they remain green even when fully ripe. The color change is due to temperature changes that cause the green chlorophyll to break down, revealing the natural orange pigments underneath.
Reference: Lee, H. S. (2000). Color changes in orange juice during conventional and microwave heating. Journal of Food Science.
- Spinach Can Boost Muscle Efficiency
Spinach is not just for Popeye! This leafy green contains special “super-foods” for plants in its leaves. These are called nitrates, and they can enhance muscle efficiency by improving oxygen use. These special tiny ingredients are made of nitrogen and oxygen and they act like vitamins for plants.
When we eat plants high in nitrates, we can work out more effectively and with less effort. Time to add some spinach to your diet for a natural energy boost!
Reference: Larsen, F. J., (2011). Dietary nitrate improves (cellular energy) efficiency in humans. Cellular Metabolism.
- Watermelon Is 92% Water
Watermelon is aptly named because it consists of 92% water. This makes it an excellent fruit for hydration, especially in the hot summer months. It’s also a good source of vitamins A and C and in addition, a special substance that’s found in certain fruits and vegetables called lycopene. This is the substance in tomatoes and watermelon that make them red-colored.
Reference: U.S. Department of Agriculture, Agricultural Research Service. National Nutrient Database for Standard Reference.
- The Popsicle Was Invented by Accident
In 1905, 11-year-old Frank Epperson accidentally left a mixture of powdered soda and water with a stirring stick in it, outside on a cold night. The next morning, he discovered the frozen treat, which he initially called the “Epsicle.” Later, he renamed it the Popsicle, and it became a beloved summer treat.
Reference: Epperson, F. (1924). U.S. Patent No. 1,505,592. Washington, DC: U.S. Patent and Trademark Office.
Fun and Health Go Hand-in-Hand
Isn’t nutrition fascinating? From the green oranges to a popsicle made by accident, these fun facts highlight the amazing world of food. We’ll be bringing you more surprising and inspiring nutritional facts to help you on your journey to the healthiest “you” possible. Stay tuned and happy eating!
About Nutrition Breakthroughs
This natural health news is shared by Nutrition Breakthroughs, maker of the original and effective calcium and magnesium based sleep aid Sleep Minerals II, and Joints and More, a natural supplement for joint relief, less aches and pains, stronger hair and nails, and more energy.
