Isn’t it amazing how nature provides us with the foods we need depending on the season? Cold winter weather can be a strain on our immune systems and overall mood. Lucky for us winter time is when some amazing citrus fruits come into season and are in abundance at the organic markets!! Citrus is the perfect way to boost your vitamin c intake during the winter. Also, who doesn’t feel amazing and cheerful while sipping on fresh organic citrus juice! Living in the Pacific Northwest I often get bummed out at the end of the summer when melons, mangos, figs and berries go out of season. I’m always happy to see persimmons for their short time on the shelf, but once they are gone it’s like a dry spell in the produce department for me. Until...the citrus hits full swing and there is an explosion of bright yellows and oranges! Citrus is packed full of vitamin c of course, but also other nutrients that are so beneficial to our bodies. For one they are rich in flavonoids which act as antioxidants and are so important for our vascular health. Nobiletin and tangeretin are two specific types of flavonoids known as polymethoxyflavones found in citrus that help keep our vascular system healthy and strong. If someone is dealing with artery plaque buildup or cholesterol issues drinking plenty of fresh orange, grapefruit and lemon juice can be so beneficial. Flavonoids also act as antioxidants and anti-cancer agents. They fight inflammation in the body as well, which many say is the root of all disease. The flavonoids found in citrus also help our bodies metabolize cholesterol and sugar in our blood stream, which will not only help keep one lean, but also help control blood sugar related issues such as diabetes.
Here are just a few types of citrus that I’ve seen lately in my awesome organic market and have been enjoying immensely right now:
Navel oranges - The perfect snacking orange. Peels easily and generally comes apart in neat sections. They’ve been especially juicy and flavorful lately. The best thing about navel oranges is there are no seeds to spit out. This is the time of year to get truly juicy navel oranges. They tend to be dry and pulpy during the off season.
Valencia oranges - These make the BEST juice out of any variety I’ve tried. Perfect when the urge for a tall glass of fresh OJ hits, or for a citrus juice cleanse. I also love drinking fresh valencia orange juice right after a workout.
Hamlin oranges - these are similar in size to the Valencia, but are not quite as flavor rich. They are sweeter and more subtle and almost have a honey undertone.
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