Fruit Juices for Your Health

Courtesy of Shape.com

It’s true, some fruit juices can be high in sugar and calories. However, there are many significant health benefits from juices that are all natural and made from real, fresh fruit. When consumed in moderation, fruit juice can provide your body with the daily vitamins and nutrients it needs and craves. Here are several juices to fill your glass with and why.

Orange juice – This is one of the most nutrient-dense fruit juices commonly consumed. A glass of OJ is an excellent source of potassium for heart health, as well as folic acid and vitamin C to support a strong immune system.

Grapefruit juice – Low in fat and in calories, grapefruit juice is a great source of vitamin C and potassium. One cup of grapefruit juice contains 11 percent of the potassium your body requires daily. Additionally, some studies suggest that drinking grapefruit juice might increase levels of HDL, the good type of cholesterol.

Pomegranate juice – A good source of antioxidants, pomegranates are believed to help protect against cancer and heart disease. They also provide vitamin C, potassium and fiber. In fact, recent studies suggest that pomegranate juice helps slow the aging process.

Prune juice – Made from dried plums, prune juice helps regulate your digestive system. It contains vitamin A, vitamin B, vitamin C, vitamin E, potassium, magnesium and iron! One glass a day can help lower blood pressure and cholesterol levels.

Cranberry juice – This superfruit is packed with nutrients such as vitamin C and antioxidants. Research suggests that cranberries may be protective of heart disease, kidney stones, gum disease, bone health, blood clots, cancers, and stomach ulcers. A more commonly known benefit of cranberry juice is its role in fighting bacteria that causes bladder and urinary tract infections.