Drinking orange juice every day may influence genes linked to inflammation, blood pressure, metabolism and blood sugar, according to recent research.
A study published in Molecular Nutrition & Food Research examined the effects of consuming 16 ounces of orange juice daily on gene activity in immune cells.
The researchers found that regular orange juice consumption affected thousands of genes involved in several processes linked to health.
After 60 days, many genes associated with inflammation and elevated blood pressure showed lower activity.
How orange juice may affect inflammation and blood pressure
The study identified changes in genes involved in the body’s inflammatory response and blood pressure regulation.
Some of the genes examined included NAMPT, IL6, IL1B and NLRP3, which can become more active when the body is under stress.
Researchers also observed changes involving SGK1, a gene associated with the kidneys’ ability to retain salt.
These findings suggest that orange juice may influence biological pathways connected to inflammation and blood pressure.
However, changes in gene activity do not necessarily mean that drinking orange juice will prevent or treat a disease.
Other research links orange juice to health benefits
Previous research has also examined the potential health effects of regular orange juice consumption.
A study discussed in Phytochemicals in Citrus reported that daily orange juice consumption may help lower blood pressure in young adults.
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Research published in Critical Reviews in Food Science and Nutrition also examined the relationship between orange juice, inflammation and blood vessel function.
Another study published in Phytotherapy Research linked orange juice consumption with improvements in insulin resistance and blood cholesterol levels.
What this means for daily orange juice consumption
The available research suggests that orange juice may have beneficial effects on several markers associated with cardiovascular and metabolic health.
Potential areas of interest include inflammation, blood pressure, blood vessel function, insulin resistance and cholesterol.
Still, orange juice should be viewed as part of an overall balanced diet rather than a standalone treatment for health conditions.
The findings also do not mean that everyone needs to drink 16 ounces of orange juice every day. Individual nutritional needs can vary, and portion size matters because fruit juice contains naturally occurring sugars and calories.
Overall, the research adds to evidence that compounds found in citrus fruits may influence biological processes associated with heart and metabolic health.
