The Nutritionist-Approved Wellness Elixir We’re Sipping All Winter Long

Ah, winter. May we forget and remember at the same time, every year. Like clockwork, this season brings a whirlwind of emotions. I love the nostalgia of holiday traditions—yards of garland bring festive cheer and a well-lit Christmas tree sparks joy (particularly on dark days). But the magic is often tainted with reality: The demands of work, family, and to-dos don’t stop. Come January, I’m always left wondering, did I actually take care of my mental and physical health during the holidays? So, this season, I’m doing things differently, not just for me, but for my entire family. As part of my proactive, health-forward approach, I’m kicking off a nourishing season. To begin, I’m sharing my winter wellness tips with the help of our partner, Florida Orange Juice.

Edie Horstman

Edie is the founder of nutrition coaching business, Wellness with Edie. With her background and expertise, she specializes in women’s health, including fertility, hormone balance, and postpartum wellness.

How to Boost Your Mood and Health During the Winter

To begin, look no further than those who dwell in the coldest, darkest places. They know a thing or two about bitter winters. And more so, how to stay happy with winter wellness tips. The not-so-sunny days of winter can take a hit on our wellbeing—both mental and physical. The solution? Implement simple, everyday habits to help you shine from the inside out. During an otherwise ruthless season, find the light.

1. Stock up on seasonal ingredients.
   In the absence of raw salads and stone fruit, focus on root vegetables, woody herbs, and bright citrus. While I love adding citrus to dinner entrees and smoothies, a refreshing glass of Florida Orange Juice delivers key nutrients for a great immune-supporting go-to anytime of day. Citrus provides energy, and hydration, both especially key for feeling good during the winter.
2. Adjust your hair and skin routine.
   When it comes to saving your skin from winter woes, what you put in your body is just as important as what you put on it. Glowy and hydrated skin is a combination of sun protection, skincare, and proper hydration and nutrients. One hundred percent orange juice is a source of key nutrients associated with a variety of health benefits, including skin health. As a sidekick to water, it helps keep your skin hydrated as well as contributing vitamin C and colorful plant pigments—called carotenoids—which may help maintain a youthful glow. Glowy skin and feeling well go hand-in-hand.
3. Target key ingredients.
   Think: Vitamin C and iron. Both are crucial for immune health. From legumes to beets to leafy greens, iron is essential during the colder months. Vitamin C helps the body absorb iron from plant-based foods, pair those foods with Florida Orange Juice—just eight ounces is an excellent source of vitamin C.
4. Move your body.
   Move well, feel well. On bright, brisk days, go for a walk. Or wind down with a slow-flow yoga session. Exercise quiets the mind, improves blood flow, and releases endorphins. Before my workouts, I like to grab a glass of Florida OJ—the natural sugars are key for energy. Plus, it’s super hydrating: Almost 90% of 100% orange juice is water! And, it naturally contains several electrolytes, including magnesium, as well as potassium and calcium in fortified juice. All of these aid in fluid balance.

Taking an Ayurvedic Approach to Winter Wellness

When it comes to boosting your mood and health during the winter, consider an ayurvedic approach. In essence, this means emphasizing foods that are warm and oily. Just as the atmosphere becomes cold and dry, so does our skin. We need nutrients that nourish our bodies from the inside out. Like, citrus. Florida Orange Juice contains vitamins, minerals, and phytonutrients to help support overall skin health. But rather than sip on cold or iced drinks, opt for warm or hot beverages.

Ultimately, we know healthy living can feel complex and convoluted. With varying wellness trends out there, it’s hard to know what’s worth it—and what’s not. While we love trying new products and routines, simplicity reigns supreme. Especially when it comes to immune-supporting ingredients. 

Health Benefits of 100% Orange Juice

When it comes to consuming 100% orange juice during the winter, it isn’t just a delicious breakfast favorite: It’s a nutrient-dense ingredient you can feel good about serving yourself (and your family!) throughout the winter months. Florida Orange Juice and its nutrients are associated with many health benefits, including heart, brain, skin, bone, and immune system health. It provides a variety of important nutrients—vitamin C, potassium, folate, and thiamin. As part of a balanced diet and lifestyle, citrus’ superior nutrient profile can help support the immune system and fight inflammation (all year long). 

Orange Juice Wellness Elixir Recipe

Fighting inflammation is key. Especially during the winter. Sipping on an 8-ounce serving of Florida Orange Juice is a win-win: it’s an excellent source of the antioxidant vitamin C, which can help fight inflammation. Additionally, OJ delivers electrolytes that can aid in hydration. It’s naturally sweet, too. Our favorite way to incorporate 100% orange juice? In a warm, slightly spiced elixir. Of all our winter wellness tips, this is the most delicious one. You’ll want to sip on this nourishing drink all winter long. Read on for the recipe!