Could a daily glass of orange juice support heart health? Study finds citrus compounds influence genes linked to blood vessel function

Naturally occurring compounds in orange juice regulated genes involved in the control of cardiovascular and blood vessel function, according to a new clinical trial.

Researchers found that men who drank 330 ml of 100% orange juice each day for six weeks absorbed citrus bioactives, including hesperidin, and showed changes in the activity of genes linked to vascular health.

Hesperidin is a plant compound found naturally in oranges and orange juice. It belongs to the polyphenol family, which also includes compounds found in berries, tea and cocoa. Scientists are investigating these compounds because of their potential role in heart and circulatory health.

The gene expression changes discovered in the study included both increases and decreases in the activity of different genes. However, when combined, a pattern emerged which the researchers believed could be more favorable for supporting healthy blood vessels, circulation and heart function.