What happens when you drink two cups of orange juice daily?

Orange juice is more than just a drink, it is a miracle worker and in more ways than one. The pulpy beverage provides numerous health benefits along with a refreshing taste. And drinking two cups of it daily could transform your health in magical ways.

Two cups of orange juice a day

Two cups of orange juice daily could 'reprogram' your genes cutting inflammation, lowering blood pressure and cutting the risk of heart disease, as per a new study published in the journal Molecular Nutrition & Food Researchin late October. Twenty healthy adults drank about two cups of 100% orange juice every day for two months.




Researchers from the University of São Paulo in Brazil, North Carolina State University and the University of California, Davis found changes in more than 1,700 genes within the participants' immune cells. They found major shifts in genetic activity tied to blood pressure, fat metabolism and inflammation, all vital factors in positive cardiovascular health.

Why orange juice?

Scientists found that citrus flavonoids, compounds found in berries, tea and cocoa, act as antioxidants and anti-inflammatories. The participants observed lower inflammation and healthier blood vessel function, though the results varied by body weight. While normal-weight participants showed shifts in inflammation-related genes, those who were overweight saw changes in relation to fat metabolism and energy use.

"These findings reinforce the therapeutic potential of orange juice by providing unprecedented insights into the molecular mechanisms behind its health effects," the researchers wrote.

Orange juice: A scientific elixir

Not just one study, numerous other studies have substantiated the proven benefits of orange juice. A 2019 study published in the Journal of Nutrition & Intermediary Metabolism found that daily consumption of orange juice improves diet, glycemic control, lipid profile, and reduces systemic inflammation. It reversed metabolic syndrome in 35% of patients.

Another 2023 study published in Frontiers in Microbiology, showed that drinking blood orange juice for a month increased the number of gut bacteria that produce short-chain fatty acids that help maintain healthy blood pressure and reduce inflammation.

Thus, that daily cup of OJ might be doing you more benefit than you know.



Get an chance to win ₹5000 Amazon Voucher by taking part in India's Biggest Habit Index! Take the survey here