‘Atom’ mixed fruit juice may boost immunity, but experts advise caution!
Stating that the term atom fruit juice is generally used to describe fruit juices that are high in vitamin C and support immunity, experts say that such fruit juices usually contain fruits such as oranges, pomegranates, kiwis, lemons, grapefruits and contain nutrients such as vitamins A, C, E, potassium, folic acid, which have antioxidant effects.
Noting that a glass of atom fruit juice can meet at least 70 percent of the daily vitamin C requirement, Nutritionist and Instructor Hatice Nurseda Hatunoğlu also touched upon the potential health risks that may be encountered in case of excessive consumption, explaining that it can increase blood sugar and increase the risk of insulin resistance, affecting the risk of type 2 diabetes in the long term, and that excessive vitamin C intake can cause oxalate to accumulate in the body and cause the formation of kidney stones.
Üsküdar University, Faculty of Health Sciences, Department of Nutrition and Dietetics, Instructor Hatice Nurseda Hatunoğlu made important statements about "atom fruit juices", which are frequently preferred in the winter months to support the immune system.
Vitamin C-rich atom fruit juices
Stating that fruit juices rich in vitamin C are more preferred to strengthen the immune system and protect against diseases in the winter months, Hatunoğlu expressed that "The term atom fruit juice is generally used to describe fruit juices that are high in vitamin C and support immunity. Such juices usually contain fruits such as oranges, pomegranates, kiwis, lemons, grapefruits. It has a high nutritional value as it contains nutrients such as vitamins A, C, E, potassium and folic acid, which have antioxidant effects, but its pulp content is lower than the fruit itself.
Vitamin C also helps support the immune system
Giving information about atom fruit juices, Instructor Hatice Nurseda Hatunoğlu continued her remarks as follows:
"Especially thanks to their antioxidant nutrients, it helps to protect body against infections by fighting pathogens entering the body, and it prevents them from damaging cells by neutralizing free radicals and strengthens the skin barrier by helping to regenerate skin cells. Moreover, vitamin C helps to support the immune system in terms of increasing iron absorption. Potassium maintains fluid balance in the body, regulates muscle and nerve function, and supports heart health. A healthy heart and nervous system, on the other hand, helps immune cells function properly. According to the Turkish Nutrition Guide, the need for vitamin C in a diet containing approximately 2000 kcal of energy per day is 70 mg in men and women.
A cup of atomic fruit juice can meet at least 70 percent of the daily requirement
Pointing out that such beverages are usually prepared with fruits rich in vitamin C such as oranges, pomegranates and lemons, Instructor Hatice Nurseda Hatunoğlu said that "A glass (approximately 240 ml) of atomic fruit juice can usually contain between 50 and 150 mg of vitamin C and meet at least 70 percent of the daily requirement, depending on the type of fruit used."
Freshly squeezed fruit juices should be consumed in a short time
Noting that vitamin C is generally lower in ready-made fruit juices because some vitamins may be lost during processing, Hatunoğlu stated that "Also, ready-made fruit juices may contain extra sugar and additives. It is important to consume freshly squeezed fruit juices in a short time without waiting too long in order to prevent vitamin C losses."
In addition to the benefits, there are also risks
Referring to the potential health risks that may be encountered in case of overconsumption of atomic fruit juices, Nutritionist Hatice Nurseda Hatunoğlu stated that "Fruit juices contain fructose, a high amount of natural sugar, and since fructose is a simple sugar, it can quickly mix with the blood and increase blood sugar. This can also affect the risk of type 2 diabetes in the long term by increasing the risk of insulin resistance. Excessive intake of energy and sugar can lead to weight gain. Since there is a high amount of fructose in fruit juices, high consumption can cause fatty liver. In juices, the pulp content is low compared to the fruit itself. Pulp, on the other hand, has important functions in preventing constipation and ensuring blood sugar control."
Excessive intake of vitamin C can lead to the formation of kidney stones
Stating that atom fruit juices have a low pH value, especially when made with acidic fruits such as oranges, lemons and grapefruits, Hatunoğlu concluded her remarks as follows: "This acidic environment can have a negative effect on tooth enamel. In addition, consuming high amounts of acidic fruit juice can increase stomach acid and reflux may occur. Some fruit juices, especially those made from fruits such as pomegranate, pineapple and kiwi, can cause allergic reactions such as itching, rash and swelling in individuals. In addition, excessive vitamin C intake can cause oxalate to accumulate in the body and cause kidney stone formation."
Üsküdar News Agency (ÜNA)