Low Carb Dieters Miss Out on Citrus
Whether you’re at the grocery store, a restaurant,
or the gym, you can’t get escape the words “low
carb.” Low carbohydrate diets have been touted
as magic weight loss tools and the path to greater
health. While many Americans do eat high carbohydrate
diets, that’s only part of the reason our
population suffers from weight and health problems.
We also
consume too few fruits and vegetables, and as a
result many people are missing out on valuable
vitamins,
minerals, and disease-protecting compounds.
At Fresh1, we’re concerned to see some of our
favorite fruits on the taboo list for low-carbohydrate
dieters. Because of their fructose content, the citrus
category is shunned by the popular protein-heavy
meal plans. But a well-balanced diet has room for
the natural sugars found in citrus and other fruits,
and eating these flavorful, healthful fruits is more
beneficial in the long run than any diet. Here’s
why:
- One glass of orange juice a day can help
you fight off colds and flu. One 8-ounce serving contains
100% of your daily requirement of Vitamin C, which
boosts the immune system.
- Vitamin C is a powerful antioxidant and helps
support cardiovascular health, reduce the risk
of some cancers, and aids in the absorption of inorganic
iron,
which aids in the treatment of anemia and stress.
- Just half of a medium grapefruit provides
all of your daily requirement of Vitamin C, and
contains nutrients that help strengthen bones, tissues,
and
blood vessels.
- Expectant moms should enjoy their citrus!
Citrus fruits contain folic acid, which helps reduce
the spinal and brain birth defects.
- Oranges and grapefruits are high in soluble
fiber, which may help reduce risk of cancer and
heart disease, as well as aid in digestion.
- Citrus fruits are a good source of the essential
nutrient potassium, which helps promote healthy
function of the cells and nerves.
If all these reasons don’t inspire you to reach
for a cool glass of orange juice, remember this: Oranges,
lemons, and grapefruits not only are good for your
health—they taste great, and add flavor and zest
to our lives. Don’t let any fad diet keep you
from enjoying your fruits and vegetables. In the long
run, they build a healthy body, and combined with exercise,
good nutrition is ultimately the best way to maintain
your health, lose weight, and feel good every day.
Sources: Nutritional facts courtesy of www.aboutproduce.com and the Florida Department of Citrus.
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