A new systematic review links hesperidin, a flavonoid found in oranges and 100% orange juice (OJ), to health benefits. However, more research is needed to further strengthen results.
The Florida Department of Citrus (FDOC)-funded review examined published studies relating to hesperidin in 100% OJ and its impact on several chronic conditions and other measurements. Those measurements included blood levels of nutrients, oxidative stress, inflammatory markers and insulin levels. Conducted by researchers at the University of Florida, the comprehensive analysis included 20 studies published between 2005 and 2021. The results were published online in Critical Reviews in Food Science and Nutrition.
“This was the first review and gap analysis to look at the effects of hesperidin, exclusively delivered by 100% orange juice, on various diseases, conditions and related markers,” said Rosa Walsh, director of scientific research at the FDOC.
The review revealed that compared to lower intakes, higher intakes of hesperidin delivered by 100% OJ were reported to be associated with better outcomes, including some related to cardiovascular issues. According to the findings, the strongest associations appeared to be for antioxidant and phenolic biomarkers. That suggests that hesperidin and OJ were effective at increasing the intake or levels of nutrients in the body or having beneficial effects on specific markers of diseases or conditions.
Systematic reviews establish up-front guidelines for the selection of studies to analyze. Not only does this type of review evaluate study results, but it also looks at the overall quality of and potential bias in those studies. The review was unique because it also included a gap analysis, which helps identify areas to help strengthen the body of research on a particular topic.
“This type of analysis is especially helpful as we or others plan future research related to hesperidin and orange juice,” Walsh said.
The gap analysis concluded additional research is needed and should be more consistent with respect to study design and methodology so comparison among studies is easier and can lead to more definitive conclusions. The FDOC’s scientific research department and other researchers can use these results as they continue to consider, design and fund research projects to examine the nutrition and health benefits of 100% orange juice and hesperidin.
Source: Florida Department of Citrus
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