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For most people, orange juice is little more than a breakfast staple. But scientists say this seemingly harmless drink has far more profound effects on the body than we might expect.
A recent study has revealed that regular orange juice consumption can alter the activity of thousands of genes in our immune cells—many of which are involved in regulating blood pressure, reducing inflammation, and controlling sugar metabolism. These processes are essential for long-term cardiovascular health.
David C. Gaze, a senior lecturer in chemical pathology at the University of Westminster, explained in The Conversation how orange juice triggers these biological changes, drawing on several research findings.
Reduced Activity in Genes Linked to Inflammation and Blood Pressure
In one recent study, adults drank 500 ml of pure pasteurized orange juice daily for two months. After 60 days, researchers observed reduced activity in inflammation-related genes such as NAMPT, IL6, IL1B, and NLRP3, which typically activate under stress. Another gene, SGK1, which influences the kidneys’ ability to retain sodium, also showed decreased activity.
These findings align with earlier research showing that regular orange juice intake can lower blood pressure in young adults. According to experts, the results suggest that orange juice induces small but meaningful shifts in the body’s regulatory systems—relaxing blood vessels, reducing inflammation, and supporting heart health.
Hesperidin: The Citrus Compound Behind the Benefits
The flavonoid hesperidin, abundant in oranges, has long been recognized for its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. The new study indicates that hesperidin also influences processes related to hypertension, cholesterol balance, and glucose metabolism.
Interestingly, body type appears to shape the response: genes linked to fat metabolism were more affected in overweight participants, while inflammation-related genes showed stronger changes in leaner individuals.
Potential to Reduce Insulin Resistance and Cholesterol
A systematic review of 15 controlled studies involving 639 participants found that regular orange juice consumption may reduce insulin resistance and LDL cholesterol. Insulin resistance is a key marker for prediabetes, while high LDL levels increase the risk of heart disease.
Another analysis focusing on overweight individuals found that several weeks of daily orange juice intake slightly lowered systolic blood pressure and increased HDL (“good”) cholesterol. Although these changes may seem modest, experts note that even small improvements can accumulate over time to significantly benefit cardiovascular health.
Effects on Gut Health and Energy Metabolism
Metabolite studies show that orange juice influences energy utilization, cell-to-cell communication, and inflammatory pathways. After one month of drinking blood orange juice, volunteers exhibited increased levels of gut bacteria that produce short-chain fatty acids—compounds associated with healthy blood pressure and reduced inflammation.
In people with metabolic syndrome, orange juice also improved endothelial function, the ability of blood vessels to relax and widen. Better endothelial function is linked to a lower risk of heart attack.
Not All Studies Agree—But the Trend Is Clear
Some studies have found no major changes in HDL or triglyceride levels. However, the overall body of evidence points toward orange juice reducing inflammation, improving blood flow, and lowering risk markers for heart disease.
One study conducted in a Brazilian orange juice factory even found that workers had lower levels of Apo-B, a marker associated with cholesterol-rich particles that raise heart attack risk.
- source: de.euronews.com/picture: pixabay.com
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