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Besides food energy (calories), fruits have four
basic nutrient groups that our bodies need: vitamins, minerals,
phytonutrients and fiber.
Vitamins - important compounds which the body
needs, but cannot make on its own (example: Vitamin C).
Minerals - basically molecules of rock that our bodies need
for many things (example: potassium).
Phytonutrients - special compounds in plants
that are turning out to be very important for us, particularly
in helping the body prevent and fight off diseases such as
cancer.
Fiber - indigestible material which is
important for the digestion and some other regulatory functions.
Orange Juice
Good old OJ is one of the most
nutritious juices you can drink. High in Vitamin C, potassium,
and several B vitamins, it also contains smaller amounts of a
lot of other vitamins and minerals. OJ is also rich in phytonutrients.
Websites
The Juice Products Association
www.fruitjuicefacts.org
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The Role of 100 Percent Juice in a Healthy Diet
American Dietetic Association
www.eatright.org
"The important role of fruit juices in the diet was confirmed by the
2005 Dietary Guidelines Advisory Committee Report. This report states
that, with the exception of fiber, fruit juices provide substantial
contributions of several vitamins and minerals. This shows that fruit
juices are an excellent complement to whole fruits as part of a healthy
eating plan. Juices, as well as other beverages, contribute to daily
fluid intake. And fortification of juices with nutrients such as
calcium can help boost intake of important nutrients."
Read the complete ADA
Juice Nutrition Fact Sheet in Adobe Acrobat format.
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