Sunkist® stories, articles & musings

When it comes to nurturing healthy growth, citrus has always been one of nature’s quiet powerhouses. Bursting with flavor, brightness, and essential nutrients, these fruits don’t just bring a little sunshine to your day—they can play a meaningful role in supporting moms-to-be and their growing families.

Folate: A Tiny Nutrient With a Big Job

We’ve always loved citrus for its nutrition, but it truly shines during pregnancy. Many citrus varieties (and we promise we don’t play favorites… our moms taught us better) naturally contain folate—a vital B-vitamin that helps promote healthy cell growth. That’s a big deal for the big changes happening during pregnancy.

You can find folate in classics like oranges, as well as pummelos and Minneola tangelos. In fact, some varieties can provide up to 80% of your daily folate needs in a single serving. Not too shabby for a snack that tastes like sunshine.

Vitamin C: Powering Immunity & Iron Absorption

If folate is the quiet hero, vitamin C is the superstar—and citrus delivers it in abundance.

Vitamin C is well-known for supporting a strong immune system, but it also plays an important role during pregnancy: it helps your body absorb iron more effectively. This is especially crucial if you're following a plant-forward or fully plant-based diet, since plant-based iron sources aren’t as easily absorbed on their own.

Citrus + leafy greens = a nutrient match made in heaven.

Hydration Support: Citrus to the Rescue

Staying hydrated is essential during pregnancy—your body is working overtime, and it needs the right balance of fluids to absorb vitamins, transport nutrients, and keep everything running smoothly.

And here’s where citrus comes in again.

Juicy varieties like Valencia oranges or Minneola tangelos contribute to hydration and make drinking water feel less like a chore and more like a treat. Add slices to your water, enjoy them whole, or incorporate them into a refreshing snack—your body (and taste buds) will thank you.

A Delicious Way to Get Your Citrus: Orange & Mixed Greens Salad

Speaking of keeping things fresh, one of our favorite ways to enjoy the benefits of citrus is in a colorful, hydrating salad. Picture crisp greens, juicy orange segments, maybe a sprinkle of nuts or seeds for crunch… It's a simple, wholesome meal that checks all the boxes: vitamins, hydration, and flavor.

Whether you're eating for two or just looking to brighten up your plate, citrus is ready to help you grow, glow, and nourish every step of the way.