By SANDRA HARRISON, MSA, RD
A new study published in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition states that daily consumption of 100% orange juice is likely to benefit brain function in older adults.
That joins research that shows that a glass of OJ improves blood vessel function and greatly boosts one’s immune system, among other findings about its benefit on bone health, asthma, vitamin absorption and weight management.
So why wouldn’t you grab a glass of Florida orange juice each day?
According to the Florida Department of Citrus, “At a time of growing concern about the health and weight of the nation, promoting a healthy eating pattern that focuses on choosing nutrient-dense foods and beverages within calorie needs has never been more important. Florida orange juice is a naturally nutrient-dense beverage that can be part of a healthful diet to promote nutrient adequacy and improved diet quality, and has been associated with beneficial effects on certain health markers.”
Those watching their sugar intake, such as people with diabetes, should be aware of the high sugar content of all juices.
If you want to add some variety to drinking a glass of OJ, here are some orange juice-based beverage recipes, courtesy of the Department of Citrus:
FLORIDA ORANGE JUICE MANGO PUNCH
- 1 59-ounce container of Florida orange juice
- 1 64-ounce container of mango lemonade
- 12 ounces unsweetened sparkling water
- Fresh fruit for garnish
Mix orange juice and lemonade in a punch bowl and chill in refrigerator. Add sparkling water right before serving and garnish with fresh fruit.
NUTRITION INFORMATION: 124 calories, 0 gram fat, 0 milligrams cholesterol, 5 milligrams sodium, 30.7 grams carbohydrate, 1 gram protein
FLORIDA OJ SUNBURST SMOOTHIE
- 1 cup Florida orange juice
- 1 to 1 1/2 cups frozen fruit
- 1 banana
- 1 tablespoon flax or chia seeds
Blend ingredients until smooth and creamy. Serve in a glass and enjoy.
NUTRITION INFORMATION: 302 calories, 2.6 grams fat, 0 milligrams cholesterol, 3 milligrams sodium, 69 grams carbohydrates, 5.7 grams protein
FLORIDA FRUIT INFUSED TEA
- 5 ounces Florida Orange Juice
- 4 ounces unsweetened iced tea
- 1 ounces pomegranate syrup
In a glass filled with ice, pour the liquids and garnish with an orange wheel.
NUTRITION INFORMATION: 212 calories, 0 grams fat, 0 milligrams cholesterol, 10 milligrams sodium, 52.3 grams carbohydrate, 1.1 grams protein.