Researchers found that drinking orange juice regularly changes the activity of thousands of immune-cell genes.
Many of these genes control blood pressure, limit inflammation, and regulate sugar metabolism.
These processes play a vital role in maintaining long-term cardiovascular health.
David C. Gaze, Senior Lecturer at the University of Westminster, highlighted the study’s findings in The Conversation.
Reduced Inflammation and Improved Heart Function
In a study, adults drank 500 ml of pasteurised orange juice daily for two months.
After 60 days, stress-activated genes NAMPT, IL6, IL1B, and NLRP3 showed lower activity.
The SGK1 gene, which regulates kidney sodium retention, also became less active.
Researchers say these changes relax blood vessels, reduce inflammation, and support heart health.
Hesperidin, an antioxidant flavonoid in oranges, influences blood pressure, cholesterol, and sugar metabolism.
Body type shapes the effect: overweight participants showed stronger fat-metabolism gene changes, while leaner participants had larger inflammation-related gene shifts.
Metabolic Benefits and Cardiovascular Gains
Studies show orange juice reduces insulin resistance and LDL cholesterol, lowering diabetes and heart-disease risks.
Overweight participants experienced slightly lower systolic blood pressure and higher HDL after weeks of daily consumption.
Orange juice influences energy use, cell signalling, and inflammatory pathways, improving overall metabolic function.
Blood orange juice increased gut bacteria that produce short-chain fatty acids, supporting healthy blood pressure and reduced inflammation.
Participants with metabolic syndrome improved endothelial function, enhancing vessel relaxation and lowering heart-attack risk.
Workers at a Brazilian juice factory showed lower apo-B levels, indicating fewer cholesterol particles that increase heart-disease risk.
Overall, regular orange juice consumption reduces inflammation, enhances blood flow, and strengthens cardiovascular health markers.
