08/22/2025
Boost Academic Success through Home Wellness

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By zp7op | Contributor

Creating a Successful Morning Routine

Establishing a dependable morning routine is essential for families to achieve success in the classroom. Having a structured plan for each day before heading off to work or school helps maintain punctuality and organization. Many families kick off their mornings with a healthy breakfast.

This school year, consider incorporating nutritious breakfast options such as Orange Oatmeal or an Orangeberry Smoothie into your meal planning. These breakfast choices are enhanced by 100% orange juice, a tasty beverage that provides vital nutrients supporting a healthy immune system and overall diet without any added sugars.

Nutritional Insights from 100% Orange Juice

“A growing body of research indicates that children who regularly consume 100% orange juice tend to have higher intakes of essential nutrients, improved diet quality, and may adopt healthier lifestyle choices, such as increased physical activity, compared to those who do not consume orange juice,” explains Dr. Rosa Walsh, director of scientific research at the Florida Department of Citrus. “Numerous studies confirm that 100% orange juice is beneficial for children’s diets and offers an easy method for parents to provide essential nutrients without concerns about adverse effects on body weight when consumed in moderation.”

Benefits of Florida Orange Juice, the Original Wellness Drink

Diet Quality

One cup of 100% orange juice counts as one serving of fruit, making it simple to help meet your children’s fruit intake requirements. It is a favorite among kids and offers a nutrient-rich beverage that enhances the intake of important nutrients such as vitamin C, folate, thiamin, magnesium, potassium, and in fortified versions, vitamin D and calcium.

Immune Support

Combined with a balanced lifestyle, Florida Orange Juice is rich in vitamin C, vitamin D (in fortified variants), and phytonutrients (naturally occurring plant compounds), all of which may offer support for a robust immune system.

  • Vitamin C – Known for helping to maintain and strengthen a healthy immune system by protecting cells and encouraging the production and function of immune cells. A 6-8 ounce glass of orange juice is an excellent source.
  • Vitamin D – Essential for regulating the immune response and aiding cells in combating bacteria and viruses. A 6-8 ounce glass of fortified orange juice is a useful source.
  • Plant Compounds, Flavonoids, and Colorful Carotenoids – These components work to enhance immune function by reducing inflammation and facilitating communication between cells, which may bolster immune responses during infections.

No Added Sugars

Unlike many foods and drinks that have added sugars, the natural sugars found in 100% orange juice come along with vitamins, minerals, and phytonutrients. As one of nature’s most nutrient-dense options, orange juice is a convenient way to increase whole fruit consumption and help meet daily recommended guidelines. Furthermore, it can serve as a substitute for nutrient-poor choices like sugary beverages in both children’s and adults’ diets.

For more information and recipe ideas, visit FloridaCitrus.org/OJ.

Recipe: Orange Oatmeal

Servings: 4

1 1/2 cups water
1 cup Florida Orange Juice
1 cup quick cooking steel-cut oats
1 Florida Orange, peeled and diced
1 tablespoon agave nectar or honey
1/4 teaspoon cinnamon
1/4 teaspoon salt

In a medium saucepan over high heat, bring water and orange juice to a boil. Add oats to the boiling mixture. Return to a boil, then reduce to medium heat and cook uncovered for 5 minutes, stirring frequently.

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