Most of us think of orange juice as a simple breakfast habit—something poured without much thought. Yet scientists are discovering that this everyday drink may be doing far more in the body than simply quenching thirst.
Recent research suggests that regular orange juice consumption can influence the activity of thousands of genes within immune cells. Many of these genes help regulate blood pressure, reduce inflammation, and manage how the body processes sugar—all key factors in long-term heart health.
How Orange Juice Affects the Body at a Genetic Level
In one study, adults drank 500 ml of pure pasteurised orange juice daily for two months. After 60 days, researchers observed reduced activity in numerous genes linked to inflammation and elevated blood pressure.
These included NAMPT, IL6, IL1B, and NLRP3, which are typically activated when the body is under physical or metabolic stress. Another gene, SGK1, which influences how the kidneys retain sodium (salt), also became less active.
These findings align with earlier studies showing that daily orange juice consumption can lower blood pressure, particularly in young adults.
More Than Just Sugar in a Glass
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