Orange juice – Nutritional components content, health advantages and contraindications

Juice extracted from ripe oranges represents a product with exceptionally high nutrient density, its bioactive compound profile closely mirroring that of the original fruit—obtained through mechanical pressing without added sweeteners. Regular consumption of this beverage may play a pivotal role in preventive strategies aimed at reducing the risk of hypertension, while also contributing to the optimization of blood lipid parameters, as evidenced by scientific research [4]. It is important to note that, in accordance with current food regulations, fruit juices—including orange juice—may contain only naturally occurring sugars from the fruit itself, with no provision for artificial sweetening. A single standard serving (one glass, approximately 200–250 ml) covers on average 50–60% of the daily requirement for ascorbic acid (vitamin C), while simultaneously providing roughly 46 micrograms of folate and 372 milligrams of potassium—a mineral essential for proper neurological and muscular function. Additionally, the juice contains smaller yet significant quantities of trace elements such as calcium (supporting bone metabolism), magnesium (regulating cardiac function), and iron (critical for oxygen transport). The following Table 1 presents detailed comparative data on the nutritional value of 100 milliliters of orange juice versus 100 grams of the edible portion of an orange, encompassing both macro- and micronutrients. Table 1. **Nutritional profile comparison: Orange juice (100 ml) vs. Orange (100 g edible portion)** | **Nutritional Component** | **Orange Juice** | **Orange (Edible Portion)** | |----------------------------|-----------------------|----------------------------------| | Energy value | 42 kcal | 47 kcal | | Total fat | < 0,1 g | < 0,1 g | | – of which saturated fatty acids | Trace (< 0.05 g) | < 0.01 g | | Carbohydrates | 8.8 g | 9.4 g | | – of which simple sugars | 8.7 g | 8.7 g | | Dietary fiber | 0.4 g | 1.9 g | | Protein | Trace (< 0.5 g) | 0.9 g | | Sodium | < 0.01 g | < 0.01 g | | Vitamin C (ascorbic acid) | 35 mg | 49 mg | | Folate (folic acid equiv.) | 23 µg | 30 µg | | Potassium | 186 mg | 183 mg |