BARTOW, Fla. – A new systematic review and meta-analysis of 100% orange juice consumption suggest that the beverage may be linked to lower total cholesterol and a reduction of insulin sensitivity, though more well-defined studies are needed to strengthen the results.
The study1, published in the journal Phytotherapy Research, examined multiple previously published randomized clinical trials related to 100% orange juice and cardiovascular risk factors. The comprehensive analysis included 15 clinical trials with a total of 639 study participants. Various risk factors were examined, including body weight, body mass index, blood pressure, blood lipids, inflammation, and glycemic control.
The meta-analysis revealed that 100% orange juice intake had no significant effect on body measurements such as weight, waist circumference, and body mass index. The analysis data revealed that intake of 100% orange juice was associated with reducing total cholesterol in studies that were at least eight weeks long. It also showed improved insulin sensitivity in studies of healthy participants that lasted at least eight weeks in duration. The analysis found no significant effects of 100% orange juice on inflammatory markers or blood pressure.
“This meta-analysis shows that daily consumption of 100% orange juice as part of the regular diet may have some positive effects on total cholesterol and insulin sensitivity,” said Dr. Rosa Walsh, the director of scientific research at the Florida Department of Citrus. “However, these reviews consistently point out the need for more research and better-designed studies so that we can make more definitive conclusions about the role of 100% orange juice on various health conditions.”
Systematic reviews and meta-analyses establish up-front guidelines for studies to be included in the analysis. This type of review evaluates the results and looks at the overall quality and potential bias in those studies. Two FDOC-funded studies2-3 were ranked among the best for having a lower risk of bias. The FDOC ‘s scientific research department, and other researchers, can use these results to consider, design, and fund other projects examining the nutritional and health benefits of 100% orange juice.
About the Florida Department of Citrus
The Florida Department of Citrus is an executive agency of Florida government charged with the marketing, research, and regulation of the Florida citrus industry. Its activities are funded by a tax paid by growers on each box of citrus that moves through commercial channels. The industry employs more than 33,000 people, provides an annual economic impact of $6.762 billion to the state, and contributes hundreds of millions of dollars in tax revenues that help support Florida’s schools, roads, and health care services. For more information about the Florida Department of Citrus, please visit FloridaCitrus.org/newsroom.
