This Is What Happens When You Eat Too Many Oranges

Oranges are a great source of many essential nutrients, like Vitamin C, fiber, and potassium. Vitamin C helps boost immunity and can even reduce the risk of certain cancers, while "the potassium found in oranges helps to lower blood pressure, protecting against stroke," according to San Diego-based nutritionist Laura Flores (via Live Science). Fiber, which is essential for proper digestive function, can help people maintain a healthy body weight, and regulates the body's cholesterol and blood sugar levels. 

However, it is possible to have too much of a good thing. While oranges are a healthy food in moderation, consuming too many of them may lead to some unpleasant stomach problems. The high fiber content can lead to undesirable results, including cramping, diarrhea, bloating, and nausea. Eating excessive amounts of Vitamin C can also cause troubling health problems, including heartburn, headache, vomiting, and even insomnia, per the Mayo Clinic.

Because oranges are acidic, they can also lead to some irritation in the stomach lining, according to Everyday Health. In high doses, the acid content in citrus fruits has been shown to cause significant digestive complications (including the aforementioned heartburn and vomiting) in individuals who suffer from gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). Furthermore, too much potassium has been shown to cause a potentially serious condition called hyperkalemia, which can lead to nausea, weakness, muscle fatigue, and arrhythmias, per the Mayo Clinic. In extreme cases, the condition may even be life-threatening.

So while there is nothing wrong with enjoying an orange or two, it is best to include a wide variety of fruits and vegetables in your diet. Per Healthline, many experts recommended eating a varied selection of different-colored fruits and vegetables every day, rather than just one or two of your favorite foods. "Eating the rainbow" is one of the best ways to improve your health and ensure your diet has just the right amount of all the vitamins and nutrients your body needs.