Scientists find that daily orange juice alters thousands of immune-cell genes in adults.
Many of these genes regulate blood pressure, reduce inflammation, and control sugar metabolism.
These effects support long-term cardiovascular health and improve the body’s core regulatory functions.
Experts say a simple breakfast drink can influence the body more than previously realised.
Reduced Inflammation and Better Blood Pressure
Researchers had adults drink 500 ml of pasteurised orange juice daily for two months.
After 60 days, stress-related genes such as NAMPT, IL6, IL1B, and NLRP3 showed lower activity.
The SGK1 gene, which regulates kidney sodium retention, also became less active.
These changes match prior findings that regular orange juice consumption lowers blood pressure in young adults.
Hesperidin, a flavonoid in oranges, contributes antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects.
It also influences cholesterol balance, sugar metabolism, and overall heart health.
Body type shapes the genetic response, with overweight participants showing more changes in fat metabolism genes.
Leaner individuals experienced stronger reductions in inflammation-related gene activity.
Heart and Metabolic Benefits
A review of 15 controlled studies with 639 participants shows orange juice reduces insulin resistance and LDL cholesterol.
Daily intake slightly lowers systolic blood pressure and raises HDL, the “good” cholesterol, especially in overweight adults.
Metabolite studies indicate orange juice enhances energy use, cell communication, and inflammatory pathways.
One month of blood orange juice increased gut bacteria producing short-chain fatty acids, supporting blood pressure and lowering inflammation.
In metabolic syndrome patients, orange juice improved endothelial function, allowing vessels to relax and reducing heart-attack risk.
Studies at a Brazilian orange juice plant found lower apo-B levels, which reduces cholesterol-related heart-attack risk.
Overall, orange juice consistently reduces inflammation, improves circulation, and enhances markers of cardiovascular health.
