Orange juice freshly squeezed is easy to make and provides many health benefits. It is high in vitamin C, folate, potassium, and phytochemicals.
It is a good source of calcium, which is important for bone strength and muscle contraction. It also contains anti-stress nutrients that support the adrenals and thyroid and help control physiological stress.
Health Benefits
A cup of fresh squeezed orange juice supplies a wide range of nutrients. Oranges are an excellent source of vitamin C, which is believed to prevent the formation of free radicals that can lead to cancer. One cup of orange juice contains more than 100% of the daily value of this vitamin, as well as folate, potassium and thiamin.
Folate is necessary for DNA creation and for the development of red blood cells. It also stimulates blood flow to the extremities and helps lower unhealthy cholesterol levels. Folate is also essential for pregnant women, and orange juice provides a good source of the nutrient.
The natural sugar in orange juice provides fuel for the body’s cellular metabolism. Without sufficient glucose, stress hormones such as cortisol and adrenaline rise to dangerously high levels. In addition, consuming too much protein can lead to an insulin imbalance, which can contribute to chronic disease. Orange juice contains anti-inflammatory phytochemicals such as limonoids, flavonoids and phenolic acids, says Kayla Matthews, a healthy living blogger.
Flavor
A glass of orange juice is refreshing and tangy, providing a healthy dose of vitamin C. Its vitamin content helps improve immunity naturally, making it ideal for kids and adults alike. It is also a great drink to accompany your favorite breakfast dish such as a stack of pancakes or a hearty egg-free frittata.
Most commercial orange juice is pasteurized which strips it of its flavor providing compounds and oils. The juice is then flavored with something called a flavor pack. The companies that manufacture these packs employ the same fragrance and flavor experts who formulate perfumes for Dior and Calvin Klein.
The packs are formulated to mimic the taste of the brand’s orange juice. The formulas differ from company to company to create a unique taste. One cup of freshly squeezed orange juice contains 112 calories and provides 149% of the daily value for vitamin C, and moderate amounts of potassium, thiamin, and folate.
Calories
Fresh-squeezed orange juice is low in calories. However, it does contain some sugar that can cause a spike in blood sugar levels. You can keep this beverage healthy by having it with meals, which will slow the absorption of the sugar into the bloodstream.
Orange juice contains natural sugars, which fuel every cell in your body. When you don’t have enough glucose, your cells can’t function properly. Your body will then start to use protein to make the glucose, which can damage your cells and lead to obesity.
One medium cup of freshly squeezed orange juice provides over 100% of your daily recommended intake of Vitamin C. This essential nutrient helps your immune system, aids wound healing and promotes bone formation. It also helps reduce stress hormones and inflammation. Vitamin C is a strong antioxidant and can protect your cells against free radical damage. It also works with potassium to increase cellular metabolism and help lower your blood pressure.
Preparation
If you are going to be making a lot of orange juice, consider investing in an electric juicer. This will save you a great deal of time and effort. It is also a good idea to rinse all your equipment after each use to reduce bacteria.
Commercially produced orange juice is pasteurized and filtered. This process strips the orange juice of oxygen and removes flavor-enhancing oils and essences. It is then mixed with water and a special chemical, a “flavor pack,” to make it taste fresh. These flavor packs, which are manufactured by the same companies that formulate perfumes for Dior and Calvin Klein, resemble nothing in nature.
To prepare fresh squeezed orange juice at home, peel the oranges and remove any seeds or white strings. Place the oranges in a blender along with water, sugar and lemon juice. Blend until the fruit is liquefied and the juice is smooth and delicious. If desired, filter through a fine mesh strainer to get rid of any residual fruit pulp. orangensaft rezept