Oranges are as much a part of California as the sun and sea. Growing up in the Midwest, I thought Florida was the origin of my favorite citrus. Older and wiser, I now understand sweet, juicy table fruit is mostly grown in the Golden State.
I have a soft spot for oranges. A grove dots the hillside of my home, I couldn’t eat enough while pregnant, and even time I peel a rind I think of the warm, summer sun. Oranges are rich in vitamin C and folate, as well as a good source of fiber. It’s no surprise they are one of the world’s favorite fruits.
All fruit has naturally occurring sugar, so the carbohydrate count is higher than that of vegetables. But raw oranges have a low to moderate glycemic index, due to their fiber load, finding a place in your low carbohydrate meals in Ginger Orange Vinaigrette, a sweet pop of texture and color in a Mixed Greens Salad with Beets, Fennel and Pistachio Butter, or alongside dates as an ending to a winter meal.
Read more about what are the best and worst fruits for diabetes. See how your favorites stack up, you may be surprised.