An Introduction to Natalie's Grapefruit Juice
Grapefruit juice has long been prized for its refreshing taste and array of health benefits. Natalie's grapefruit juice has emerged as one of the most popular brands of this citrusy drink. Made with no artificial flavors or preservatives, Natalie's grapefruit juice offers a delicious way to get more nutrients into your diet.
The History Behind Natalie’s Grapefruit Juice
Natalie’s was founded in 1945 by the Warner family in Apopka, Florida - right in the heart of the state’s citrus groves. The company started out selling oranges and tangerines before expanding into grapefruit in the 1960s as ruby red and white grapefruit varieties became more readily available.
As the decades passed, Natalie’s became one of the largest shippers of citrus fruits in Florida. In the 1990s, they decided to use their fresh grapefruit harvests to produce bottled grapefruit juice. Their rich, sweet juice quickly found an audience across the United States.
Today, Natalie’s sells a range of fruit juices but grapefruit remains at the heart of their brand. By controlling the growing, harvesting and production process from grove to bottle, they are able to maintain exceptional quality and taste.
Nutrition Information
Grapefruits are an excellent source of key nutrients like vitamins C and A. They also contain plant compounds like naringin, naringenin and lycopene which function as antioxidants in the body.
One 8 oz serving of Natalie’s 100% pure ruby red grapefruit juice contains:
- 90 calories
- 0 g fat
- 0 mg sodium
- 22 g carbohydrates
- 21 g sugar
- 2 g protein
- 120% DV vitamin C
- 15% DV vitamin A
- 4% DV calcium and iron
Natalie’s also makes a white grapefruit juice containing slightly less sugar and calories per serving. Both juices deliver exceptional flavor and nutrition in every bottle. They are fat-free, cholesterol-free and gluten-free too.
Benefits of Drinking Natalie’s Grapefruit Juice
Research has linked grapefruit juice consumption with a wide range of health benefits. Drinking Natalie’s 100% pure grapefruit juice gives you an easy and delicious way to add more of this nutritious fruit into your diet.
Boosts Immune Health
Grapefruits are prized for their exceptionally high levels of vitamin C. This powerful antioxidant stimulates the production of white blood cells which defend your body against infectious diseases and harmful free radicals.
Just one serving of Natalie’s grapefruit juice meets 120% of your recommended daily intake for vitamin C. By supporting immune system function, Natalie’s grapefruit juice may help you stay healthy during cold and flu season.
Supports Heart Health
The vitamin C and other antioxidants found abundantly in grapefruit juice are also beneficial for your heart. They help lower blood pressure levels by relaxing blood vessels and may help manage conditions like hypertension.
Research also shows grapefruit juice’s antioxidants reduce LDL “bad” cholesterol oxidation which clogs arteries. The naringin and lycopene present may also prevent atherosclerosis by inhibiting the build-up of plaque.
Aids Weight Control
Incorporating Natalie’s grapefruit juice into a weight loss diet can also help boost results. Grapefruit has long been linked to weight loss due to its ability to help regulate blood sugar and insulin levels.
Naringin and naringenin are two compounds in grapefruits believed to optimize your body’s ability to burn fat as fuel rather than store it. A balanced diet with grapefruit juice may enhance weight control when combined with daily exercise.
Relieves Muscle Cramps
The minerals found in Natalie’s grapefruit juice, like calcium, potassium and magnesium, play important roles in proper muscle contraction and relaxation. Being deficient in these minerals often leads to painful cramps and spasms.
Boosting mineral intake by enjoying a glass of Natalie’s grapefruit juice daily may help provide relief from painful Charlie horses, foot cramps or muscle tightness after exercise.
Uses for Natalie's Grapefruit Juice
There are endless ways to enjoy the bright, refreshing taste of Natalie’s grapefruit juice. Here are some delicious ideas for using Natalie’s grapefruit juice:
Mix into Smoothies
Add a splash of grapefruit juice instead of orange juice into your next smoothie creation. The tart flavor pairs especially well with sweeter fruits like mango, pineapple or banana. It also adds plenty of extra nutrition.
Create Cocktails
Liven up your favorite vodka cocktail by using Natalie’s grapefruit juice instead of plain citrus juice. The sweet-tart flavor is less sour than lime or lemon. Or try it in a chilled greyhound cocktail with just vodka and grapefruit juice over ice.
Mix with Seltzer
For an easy homemade soda, fill a tall glass with ice and add 1⁄3 Natalie’s grapefruit juice plus 2⁄3 seltzer water. Garnish your grapefruit fizz with a citrus slice or fresh mint leaves if desired.
Marinade for Seafood
Soak shrimp, scallops or white fish fillets in a marinade of Natalie’s grapefruit juice, olive oil, honey, garlic and your favorite herbs and spices. The acid tenderizes meats while infusing them with bright flavor.
Use in Baking
Natalie’s grapefruit juice can be used to make moist cakes, scones and muffins. Substitute it for other citrus juices or milk in baking recipes. You can also use it to make grapefruit curd filling for tarts, fruit bars and thumbprint cookies.
Where to Buy Natalie’s Grapefruit Juice
Natalie’s grapefruit juice is sold at major retailers across the United States. You can typically find their distinctive green bottles in the refrigerated juice section alongside other fruit juices and alternative milk beverages.
Well-stocked grocery stores like Kroger, Publix, Safeway, ShopRite, Stop & Shop and Winn Dixie carry Natalie’s products. You may also find their grapefruit juice at stores like Costco, Sam’s Club, BJ’s Wholesale Club and Walmart.
Natalie’s grapefruit juice is also available for purchase online from retailers like Amazon and Walmart.com. Buying online allows you to have their nutritious juice shipped right to your door.
Grapefruit Juice Alternatives
While Natalie’s is one of the largest and most popular grapefruit juice brands, there are some alternatives worth considering too:
- Florida’s Natural Ruby Red Grapefruit Juice
- Ocean Spray 100% White Grapefruit Juice
- Atkins Grapefruit Juice Cocktail
- Lakewood Organic Pure Grapefruit Juice
Be sure to compare nutrition labels, as juice blends may be higher in sugar and calories than 100% grapefruit juices. Adding water can reduce the tartness while still providing nutritional benefits.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is grapefruit juice good for you?
Yes, 100% grapefruit juice like Natalie’s is very good for you. It’s low in calories and packed with immune-boosting vitamin C. Grapefruit juice also provides antioxidants that benefit heart health, may aid weight loss and helps vital minerals that prevent muscle cramps.
Is grapefruit juice safe for pregnancy?
Most experts consider modest grapefruit juice consumption safe during pregnancy. Natalie’s grapefruit juice can help expecting moms meet the higher vitamin C requirements for pregnancy. But check with your doctor first, especially if taking medication that interacts with grapefruit.
Does grapefruit juice help you lose weight?
Grapefruit juice alone won’t make you shed excess pounds but it can support a weight loss diet. Compounds in grapefruit may help regulate blood sugar and insulin, optimize fat burning and reduce appetite when consumed pre-meal. But lowering calorie intake and exercise are also key.
Does Natalie’s grapefruit juice have added sugar?
No, Natalie’s grapefruit juice contains no added sugars, sweeteners or artificial flavors. The 22 grams of sugar per serving come naturally from the grapefruit itself. Their juice is 100% pure squeezed fruit.
FAQs
Is Natalie's grapefruit juice gluten-free?
Yes, Natalie’s grapefruit juice is certified gluten-free, made only from fresh grapefruits with no additional preservatives or additives that contain gluten.
Does Natalie’s grapefruit juice contain GMOs?
No, Natalie’s grapefruit juice is made from non-GMO grapefruits and does not contain any genetically engineered ingredients or additives.
Where is Natalie’s grapefruit juice produced?
Natalie’s grapefruit juice is produced in Apopka, Florida at their juice production facility located right in the heart of the state’s citrus groves using grapefruits grown on local Florida farms.
What kind of grapefruits are used in Natalie's juice?
Natalie’s uses premium white and ruby red grapefruit varieties to make their juices. Other common grapefruit types like pomelo, Oro Blanco and Star Ruby may also be used in seasonal blends.
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new treatment regimen.
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