There’s something about the colour orange that grabs your attention. It’s warm, bold, and full of energy. And when it shows up in food — in carrots, mangoes, oranges, pumpkins, and even sweet potatoes — it’s a sign that something good is happening inside.That bright colour usually means the food is rich in beta-carotene. It’s what gives carrots and pumpkins their glow, and it’s also what your body turns into vitamin A. You don’t see it happening, but this vitamin quietly gets to work: sharpening your vision, especially at night; keeping your skin smooth and healthy; and giving your immune system the tools it needs to fight off illnesses.Then there are fruits like oranges and tangerines — juicy, sweet, and packed with vitamin C. It’s the kind of nutrient that helps cuts heal faster and gives your skin its strength. It also helps your body absorb iron, which is what keeps you from feeling tired or dizzy during long school days or sports practice.Beneath the surface, these orange foods are loaded with antioxidants — tiny compounds that protect your cells from everyday wear and tear. They don’t make a big show of it, but they’re constantly supporting your heart, brain, and overall energy levels.You won’t feel the effects immediately. There’s no dramatic change after one slice of papaya or one bowl of pumpkin soup. But over time, your body starts to run a little better, a little smoother — all because you added a bit of orange to your plate.Not a bad deal, for something so simple..Carrots weren’t always orangeThe original carrots were purple, yellow, or white. Orange carrots were developed in the Netherlands in the 1600s — possibly to honour the Dutch royal family, the House of Orange.Orange bell peppers are the sweetestThey’re milder and contain more sugar than green or red peppers, making them a great snack for kids. Prevents blindnessIn parts of Africa and Asia, orange-fleshed sweet potatoes were introduced in schools and villages as a natural way to prevent blindness in children. Oranges float They float because of the tiny air pockets in their peel, which acts like a life jacket. Try it in a bowl of water! Smell of orange can lift your moodStudies show that the citrusy scent of oranges can reduce stress and make you feel more cheerful — no wonder they’re a popular school snack! Beta-carotene is fat-solubleYour body absorbs more beta-carotene when you eat it with a little fat. That’s why pairing carrots with something like olive oil or hummus helps you get more vitamin A.
