Fruit juice nutrients for later life
Fruit juice nutrients for later life
1 min read
The focus on healthier ageing now means that more people are interested in eating the right type of diet.
Blood pressure, fluid and more
100% fruit juice, such as orange juice, contains a wide range of vitamins and minerals, particularly vitamin C, folate and potassium. It is also a valuable source of fluid and can be part of your daily water recommendation of 2.0 to 2.5 litres from drinks and food.
Folate contributes to normal homocysteine metabolism. Folate also contributes to normal blood formation, normal function of the immune system andto the reduction of tiredness and fatigue;
Vitamin C supports collagen formation which is important for normal bones, skin and teeth, as well as contributing to the normal function of the immune system. Vitamin C also contributes to the protection of cells from oxidative stress;
Potassium contributes to normal muscle function and to the maintenance of normal blood pressure.
Complementing fruit intake
A survey of more than 1,000 medical doctors revealed that seven in ten believe that a glass of 100% fruit juice 'can be a healthy complement to people's daily intake of fruit and vegetables'. A glass can be 150-250 ml depending on your country's recommendations.
What about sugars?
The sugars in 100% fruit juice come from the natural fruits used to make the juice. There are around 14 g of sugar and 62 calories in one small glass (150 ml) of orange juice, which is well within dietary recommendations. By law, manufacturers cannot add sugar, preservatives, colours or artificial sweeteners to 100% fruit juice so, anything labelled 'fruit juice' is simply squeezed fruit.
Experts agree that fruit juice is not harmful to teeth or gums if drunk once a day with a meal. Daily brushing with fluoride toothpaste is important for good oral health.
Interactions with medicines
Avoid grapefruit juice if you are taking prescription medicines for cholesterol lowering, impotence, arrythmia (uneven heart beat), or high blood pressure. Check with your doctor if you are unsure which medications may be an issue.
When to drink
A small glass of 100% fruit juice can be enjoyed at breakfast or with any meal. Iron levels can be an issue as we get older so it's useful to know that vitamin C increases iron absorption from fortified foods, supplements and plant foods. A typical glass of 100% orange juice provides 68 mg of vitamin C which is more than 80 per cent of the Nutrient Reference Value (daily recommendation).