Our Fx-Approved Picks for Exceptional Citrus

The following article was written by Heinen’s Chief Dietitian, Melanie Jatsek RD, LD.

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My husband and I braved single-digit temperatures over the weekend just for a bite to eat. Why? Because we were suffering from a serious case of cabin fever. And judging by the standing-room-only crowd, we weren’t the only ones!

Thankfully, you can skip the pricey dinner because Heinen’s Produce Department is serving up a delicious food-as-medicine prescription for your restless nest syndrome: fresh citrus fruit.

I’ll talk nutrition in a minute, but first, let’s talk about the instant mood boost you get when your eye catches that bright landscape of oranges. It always seems to make me smile, and a smile alone has the power to lift your mood. If you don’t believe me, plant a big smile on your face and hold it for 5 seconds. See what I mean?

6 Ways Your Body Benefits from Citrus

You’ve probably heard the saying, “If it tastes good, it’s probably not good for you.” But if you’ve ever sunk your teeth into a sugar-sweet Sumo Orange, you know that rule doesn’t apply here. 

It turns out, you can have your sweet treat and get a health boost too! Here are six ways this sun-kissed fruit supports your health.

1. Immune health: Citrus is rich in vitamin C, an immune-strengthening antioxidant offering frontline defense against disease. Vitamin C also produces hydrogen peroxide in the cells, which acts as a weapon to kill invaders and protect your body.

2. Skin and bone health: Vitamin C-rich citrus fruit boosts collagen, the most abundant protein in your body that serves as the building block of skin, bones, connective tissue and, muscles.

3. Reduces muscle fatigue: The bioflavonoids in citrus can help with muscle fatigue during a tough workout.

4. Eye health: A 2014 study showed those getting the amount of vitamin C found in about two oranges a day appeared to have an approximate 40 percent lower risk of developing cataracts.

5. Helps support healthy cholesterol and blood sugar levels: The soluble fiber in citrus fruit—found in highest concentrations in the membranes between the segments—is a key player in lowering cholesterol and supporting healthy blood sugar levels.

6. Relief from seasonal allergies: Citrus fruit may help reduce symptoms of allergic rhinitis, an immune response to allergens that cause sneezing, a runny nose, and watery eyes

Unique Citrus Fruits at Heinen’s

I won’t argue that oranges are outstanding and that grapefruit is, well, great. But since it’s citrus season, let’s take a little journey to explore the awesomeness of some more unique citrus fruits at Heinen’s.

• California Minneolas: This large citrus fruit is a cross between a tangerine and a grapefruit, and when ripe, it turns a deep red-orange color and is very easy to peel. Minneolas are delicious when served with other crisp fruit or vegetables in your favorite salad, topped with almonds, or as a garnish to baked fish.
• Sumo Oranges: A hybrid orange of Japanese origin and one of the largest Mandarins available, Sumos are recognized by a knot-type bump on their head and a thick, easy-to-peel skin. Their taste is candy sweet with more concentrated citrus flavor than a standard orange. Make a Sumo yogurt parfait with plain yogurt, Sumo orange segments, a sprinkle of Heinen’s ground flax and chia, and a drizzle of raw honey. Yum!
• Pummelos: A distant relative of the grapefruit, Pummelos have a pink flesh that is sweeter, firmer, and less juicy. They are covered with a thick, easy-to-peel rind that ranges in color from yellow to pink. Add Pummelo segments to a fruit salad with pineapple, kiwi, and fresh mint.
• Pink Lemons: Beautiful inside and out, these lemons have pink flesh, clear juice, and a wonderful lemon flavor. Serve fresh with salads and fish, or add to poultry and veggie dishes. Pink lemons also make a great pink lemonade. To prepare a refreshing sugar-free pink lemonade, add the juice of one pink lemon (~1/4 cup juice) to 8 ounces of cold water, then stir in 5-7 drops of SweetLeaf Vanilla Stevia Liquid (to taste). Make it pink with a pinch or two of Heinen’s Organic Beet Powder and stir until light pink. Taste and adjust the sweetness.
• Ugli Fruit: Also known as Jamaican tangelo, ugli fruit isn’t the prettiest piece of citrus on the block. But don’t let its homely appearance stop you—this remarkably juicy fruit tastes like a delicious cross between a grapefruit and a mandarin. No recipe necessary—simply peel and enjoy straight from your hand!

Key Takeaway

Whether you have the winter blues or not, we could all use a boost in immunity this time of year. And I can’t think of a tastier way to support your health than with a piece of fresh citrus from Heinen’s Produce Department.

By Melanie Jatsek RD, LD

Heinen's Chief Dietitian, Melanie Jatsek, RD, LD believes that the answer to a strong, healthy and vibrant body lies within. As a published author with over 24 years of experience in wellness program development, health coaching and professional speaking, Melanie offers expert guidance through Heinen's Club Fx™ program to help customers take inspired action to build the healthy body they were meant to live in without giving up their favorite foods.