Is fruit juice healthy?

Fruit juice contains lots of vitamins but its fructose content should not be underestimated. That is why it is often claimed not to be any healthier than soft drinks. What is true? Is fruit juice healthy or not?

What juice offers

Orange juice has a high amount of vitamin C and contains lots of carotenoids and flavonoids. These antioxidants are known to protect the body cells from harmful influences and according to a study by the University of Hohenheim they are absorbed more easily from orange juice than from the fruit itself.

Cranberry juice is known for its high amount of vitamin C and betacarotin as well as for its secondary compounds, as the coloring anthocyanins. Those are suposed to have anti-inflammatory and vessel-protective qualities.

Lingonberry juice is rich in vitamins, especially vitamin C. The typical tanning agents of the lingonberry, the so called tannins, are meant to have a repressive impact on cystitis caused by E. coli bacteria. However, current studies are ambiguous regarding that fact.

Juice made from red grapes has a high iron content and contains flavonoids, that are known for protecting the cardiovascular system and enhancing the strength of blood vessels.

Is freshly squeezed juice better than bottled juice?

In principle: juice is not equal to juice. Juices made from fresh fruit contain the highest amount of vitamins and nutrients and therefore are the most healthy ones. They need to be stored in a cool and dark place and should be consumed quickly in order to avoid loss of vitamins. Chilled fruit juices and direct juices from the supermarket are convenient and resemble freshly squeezed juices when it comes to vitamins and nutrients. They are carefully pasteurized in order to last longer. Within the process of pasteurizing the cells are damaged by the heat. In this way nutrients such as carotenoids are absorbed more easily by the body. Caution when it comes to fruit nectar and fruit juice drinks! The actual amount of fruit is very low. Please note: Whenever the label says „fruit juice“, „direct juice“ oder „juice made from concentrate“ excusively the fruits natural sugars are contained.

Important to know when drinking juice

No matter what juice you like to drink: Due to its high amount of fructose it should never function as thirst quencher. Rather enjoy a glass as a fruity snack and drink it diluted with mineral water.

Enjoy!

Your Dole Team