Hey Citrus Fans!
With classes starting up, many students (and professors) are looking for ways to improve their cognitive abilities, while also keeping away that dreaded “freshman fifteen.” Well, the answer is surprisingly simple. Studies have shown that drinking 500ml (roughly a pint) of orange juice a day can drastically improve memory, and help maintain a healthy weight. This is likely due to flavonoids, which are chemicals found in abundance in fresh oranges and other citrus fruits. According to Ben Spencer, author of the article Could Orange Juice Boost Brain Power?, “Scientists are not exactly sure how this works, but they suspect the chemicals (flavonoids) may improve blood flow, protect neurons against oxidative damage and increase the efficiency with which neurons transmit signals.” In layman's terms, flavonoids improve your memory, improve your comprehension of information, and do all kinds of good things that keep your body running normally.
This has been documented in a study that shows that this is especially true in older men and women who may be lacking flavonoids in their diets. Aside from oranges, blueberries, blackberries, apples, prunes, strawberries, grapes, peppers, and celery are all found to be packed with flavonoids. Therefore, adding a few more glasses of delicious Florida orange juice to your diet, or another basket of blueberries to your shopping cart might be just the thing you need to ensure that you start this semester with bright eyes and a healthy mind.
Works Cited:
Olson, Samantha. "Fruits And Vegetables With High Levels Of Flavonoids May Prevent Weight Gain." Medical Daily. N.p., 28 Jan. 2016. Web. 25 Aug. 2016.
Spencer, Ben. "Could Pure Orange Juice Boost Brain Power?" Dailymail.uk. Dailymail, 15 May 2015. Web. 25 Aug. 2016.
Written by Emma Morton
Student Fellow at the Florida Citrus Hall of Fame
In partnership with Florida Southern College’s McKay Archives Center
