Orange juice freshly squeezed has a special flavor and taste that you just don’t get from pasteurized cartons from the store. It also packs a whole bunch of healthy vitamins, minerals and enzymes. In addition to the obvious vitamin C, it contains folate, potassium and other B vitamins. It’s also loaded with phytochemicals, which are plant compounds that may have disease-fighting properties.
Freshly squeezed OJ provides a boost to your immune system. Vitamin C is a powerful antioxidant that increases your white blood cell count, which helps the body fight infection. It is also a good source of bioflavanoids, which are plant pigments that provide anti-inflammatory effects.
When you’re juicing, choose only the sweetest oranges. These varieties include Valencias, Navel oranges and clementines. However, blood oranges, mineolas, tangerines and other citrus fruits can be used for making homemade OJ as well.
You’ll also want to use a non-reactive, airtight container for storing the juice in your refrigerator. Glass bottles and mason jars are ideal, though you can even use stainless steel if you’re careful. The acid in the OJ can react with certain plastics, causing off-flavors. Juice can be stored in the fridge for up to two days if you’re using these types of containers. If you have leftovers, you can freeze them in ice cube trays and keep them for up to three months.
In OJ, you’ll find an abundance of anti-stress nutrients, including folic acid, magnesium, potassium and Vitamin C. These help to regulate the body’s hormone and stress response systems and help reduce cortisol, adrenaline and other natural inflammatory substances. The high levels of vitamin C found in OJ can also improve iron absorption and promote the formation of collagen.
If you’re looking for a quicker alternative to juicing, many juicers come with an attachment that allows you to make fresh-squeezed OJ in minutes. You’ll still need to wash and peel your oranges, and you won’t have as much control over the consistency of the final product, but this is a great time saver when you need to whip up a glass of OJ in a hurry. orangensaft rezept
