*This post is proudly shared in partnership with Florida Orange Juice*
100% orange juice delivers many essential nutrients, yet it’s often misunderstood – especially when it comes to concerns about sugar or calories. The good news is, the facts tell a much brighter story. So let’s take a closer look at what 100% orange juice really brings to the table – and explore a few simple ways to enjoy it in a healthy, balanced way.
MY FAVORITE FACTS ABOUT 100% ORANGE JUICE
Did you know that when it’s enjoyed as part of a balanced diet, 100% orange juice can contribute meaningfully to your daily intake of essential nutrients? It contains no added sugar (that sweet taste comes straight from the orange!) and has several vitamins and minerals like vitamin C, potassium, and folate.
It also has hesperidin, a beneficial plant compound that research suggests may help support metabolic and cardiovascular health. Notably, hesperidin may also help delay the absorption of natural sugars, contributing to a more gradual blood sugar response.
100% orange juice delivers essential nutrients including vitamin C (important for immune function), potassium (which supports heart health and helps with rehydration), along with other essential nutrients.
When enjoyed in recommended portions (8 ounce serving size for adults and 4 to 6 ounces for kids), 100% orange juice can absolutely fit within a balanced diet. The key is portion control and incorporating it in ways that promote satiety and stable blood sugar (more on some great power pairings below!).
Ways to Include Florida Orange Juice in Your Routine
There are SO many wonderful ways to include 100% orange juice in your routine. Here are some easy ones!
1. Pair it with protein and fat.
Combining carbohydrates with sources of protein or healthy fats can help slow the digestion of sugar and promote a more stable blood sugar response. For example:
Have a glass of Florida Orange Juice alongside eggs and avocado toast.
Add Florida Orange Juice to a smoothie made with Greek yogurt, chia seeds, and spinach.
Enjoy Florida OJ with a handful of almonds and cottage cheese for a nutrient-dense snack.
2. Use it as part of a recipe.
Florida Orange Juice can add flavor and nutrients to your favorite recipes:
Use it in a citrus vinaigrette for a salad.
Add it to a marinade for fish, chicken or tofu.
Mix a splash into oatmeal or overnight oats for natural sweetness.
3. Make every sip count.
A standard serving of 100% orange juice is 8 ounces for adults – just the amount you need to get the benefits of key nutrients like vitamin C, potassium and more. Kids can benefit from a smaller serving (4 to 6 ounces) tailored to their needs, too.
Final Thoughts
100% orange juice is sometimes unfairly criticized, but when we look at the science, a much more balanced picture emerges. It’s a nutrient-dense option that can support health in a variety of ways, especially when paired with other whole foods and enjoyed in moderation.
Do you also love 100% orange juice or do you have any questions?
Feel free to share in the comments!