Evidence supporting the use of: Orange
For the health condition: Night Blindness

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Synopsis

Source of validity: Scientific
Rating (out of 5): 4

Oranges are often recommended to support eye health and help prevent night blindness due to their high content of vitamin C and, more importantly, their moderate content of vitamin A precursors, such as beta-carotene. Night blindness, or nyctalopia, is most commonly caused by a deficiency in vitamin A, which is essential for the formation of rhodopsin—a pigment in the retina that is crucial for vision in low-light conditions. While oranges are not the most concentrated source of vitamin A compared to foods like liver, carrots, or dark leafy greens, they do contain some beta-carotene, which the body can convert into vitamin A. Additionally, the vitamin C in oranges supports overall eye health by functioning as an antioxidant and helping to reduce the risk of age-related eye diseases.

There is clear scientific evidence that vitamin A deficiency leads to night blindness, and that consuming vitamin A-rich foods can prevent or treat this condition. The use of oranges specifically is supported by their nutrient profile, though they are not the top source for vitamin A. Clinical recommendations often include a diet rich in fruits and vegetables, including citrus fruits like oranges, to support general eye health and help prevent vitamin deficiencies that could lead to night blindness. However, for treatment of established vitamin A deficiency, higher-potency sources or direct supplementation may be necessary.

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