Your glass of orange juice might be doing far more for your body than just quenching your thirst, after scientists discovered that drinking it actually changes how thousands of genes function within our immune cells.
Many of these genes play crucial roles in keeping blood pressure in check, fighting inflammation, and managing how our bodies process sugar, all of which are vital factors when it comes to looking after your heart over the long term.
In one recent study, adults drank 500ml of pure pasteurised orange juice every day for two months. The results were significant after just 60 days.
Genes linked to inflammation – including NAMPT, IL6, IL1B and NLRP3, which typically fire up when we're under stress – became noticeably quieter.
Orange juice may help the blood vessels relax and calm inflammation
|GETTY
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The SGK1 gene also showed reduced activity, which is particularly interesting because it affects how our kidneys hold onto sodium.
This fits with earlier research showing that regular orange juice consumption helps lower blood pressure in younger adults.
Researchers believe these small but meaningful shifts help blood vessels relax, calm inflammation, and protect heart health.
The flavonoid hesperidin, found naturally in oranges, has long been known for its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory powers.
But this new research shows it also influences blood pressure, cholesterol balance, and how we metabolise sugar.
Interestingly, your body type seems to affect how you respond to orange juice.
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People carrying extra weight saw bigger changes in genes connected to fat metabolism. Meanwhile, leaner individuals experienced more pronounced effects on inflammation-related genes.
It's a reminder that our bodies don't all react the same way to what we eat and drink – even something as simple as a glass of OJ.
Looking at the bigger picture, an analysis of 15 controlled studies with 639 participants found that regular orange juice consumption can reduce insulin resistance and LDL cholesterol – both major warning signs for diabetes and heart disease.
Another study involving overweight participants found that drinking orange juice daily for several weeks resulted in a slight decrease in systolic blood pressure, while also increasing HDL, the "good" cholesterol.
The health benefits extended to the gut, as volunteers drinking blood orange juice for a month saw an increase in beneficial bacteria that produce short-chain fatty acids, which are linked to healthy blood pressure.
Research on people with metabolic syndrome also found improved blood vessel function.
The flavonoid hesperidin has long been known for its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory powers
|GETTY
Dr David Clarke, President of the Association for Treatment of Neuroplastic Symptoms, has previously warned that some popular health foods could actually be raising your blood pressure without you realising.
"Some foods marketed as 'healthy' may unknowingly increase blood pressure," Dr Clarke told GB News, pointing to "vegetable juices" that "contain high levels of sodium despite their nutrient-rich profile".
He also flagged cereal bars as potential culprits, often loaded with sweeteners that cancel out their fibre benefits.
His advice is to always check labels carefully for hidden salt, sweeteners and unhealthy fats, and be wary of products with lengthy ingredient lists.
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