Orange juice can reduce inflammation and chronic disease

A new study published in the journal Advances in Nutrition looks at the health benefits of orange juice. The research, funded by the Florida Department of Citrus (FDOC), suggests that orange juice helps adults fight inflammation and oxidative stress. 

“We know that 100% orange juice contains a number of nutrients, like vitamin C, as well as beneficial bioactive compounds that have the potential to reduce inflammation and oxidative stress,” said Gail Rampersaud, a registered dietician with the FDOC.

“This review tells us that some studies find benefits with 100% orange juice, but we need more data and large well-designed studies to make more definitive conclusions. This analysis is especially helpful as we and others plan future research related to orange juice.”

The experts reviewed previous research into the health benefits of orange juice, which revealed that citrus juice reduces interleukin-6, a known measure of inflammation. Overall, the researchers analyzed data from 21 studies covering 307 healthy adults and 327 adults at risk of disease. 

Ultimately, the review showed that orange juice consumption either had no effect or positive effects on inflammation or oxidative stress. These results compare favorably with an earlier review funded by the FDOC which found that hesperidin, a naturally occurring compound in oranges and orange juice, helps reduce inflammation.         

The researchers caution that further research is needed, as their study was focused on a small number of participants, has a low amount of evidence, and some bias involved. 

“While much of the naturally occurring fiber and vitamin C are lost during processing, 100% fruit juices show similar vitamin and mineral content as equal quantities of whole fruit. Importantly, these juices retain much of the antioxidant nutrients and phytochemicals of the whole fruit, which can reduce both inflammation and chronic disease risk and support human health,” wrote the researchers

The study was carried out by Tufts University, George Mason University and Think Healthy Group. 

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By Zach Fitzner, Earth.com Staff Writer