A recent study has shown that regularly drinking orange juice may affect the activity of thousands of genes within human immune cells.
Many of these genes contribute to controlling blood pressure, soothing inflammation, and regulating how the body processes sugar, all of which are crucial factors in maintaining long-term heart health.
In this study, researchers followed adults who consumed 500 ml of pure, pasteurized orange juice daily for two months. After 60 days, it was found that several genes associated with inflammation and high blood pressure became less active.
Among these genes are “NAMPT,” “IL6,” “IL1B,” and “NLRP3,” which are usually activated when the body is exposed to stress. The activity of another gene known as “SGK1,” which affects the kidneys’ ability to retain sodium (salt), also decreased.
These changes are consistent with previous findings that showed drinking orange juice daily can lower blood pressure in young people.
Benefits of Orange Juice on the Heart
The importance of this study lies in the fact that it provides a possible explanation for the association of orange juice with improved heart health in many trials. New research shows that this drink is not limited to raising blood sugar levels, but it seems to stimulate slight shifts in the body’s regulatory systems, reducing inflammation and helping blood vessels relax.
It seems that the natural compounds found in oranges, especially “hesperidin,” an acidic flavonoid known for its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects, affect the processes associated with high blood pressure, cholesterol balance, and how the body deals with sugar.
However, the response also varies depending on body size. Overweight people showed greater changes in genes associated with fat metabolism, while leaner volunteers showed stronger effects on inflammation.
Overall, these findings suggest that the benefits of orange juice include reducing inflammation, supporting healthy blood flow, and improving several blood markers associated with long-term heart health.
