New Science

Every month we take a look at the latest science on 100% fruit juice from academic journals and published reports. These are presented as bite-sized summaries for healthcare professionals.

Lower body mass index associated with fruit juice and other heathy lifestyle factors

There has been some debate about how our beverage choices affect body weight with a focus on sugar content and energy density. Contrary to suggestions from some government bodies, a recent observational study has found that fruit juice consumption was statistically associated with lower body mass index.

Role of fruit juice in lowering inflammation

Inflammation is an indicator of stress inside the body and is believed to influence the pathophysiology of conditions such as diabetes, insulin resistance, and cardiovascular disease.

Processing fruit may lower glycaemic index

There are mixed views about how the juicing of fruit can affect blood glucose levels and indeed disease risk. To better understand this, researchers looked at how blending fruit can influence postprandial glucose levels.

Drinking a daily glass of 100% fruit juice not associated with a higher risk of hypertension in people with type 2 diabetes

It has been speculated that drinking 100% fruit juice does not compare with eating whole fruit from a health perspective. To evaluate this scientifically, a large prospective study in the US analysed how 100% fruit juice and whole fruit compared in relation to increased hypertension or type 2 diabetes risk.

Orange juice as part of a reduced-calorie diet results in weight loss and ameliorates obesity-related biomarkers

Some diet commentators link orange juice consumption with weight gain as a consequence of its sugar content but this has never been proven in high quality intervention trials.

100% fruit juice and cardiovascular disease

Evidence clearly shows that consumption of fruit and vegetables has a beneficial effect on cardiovascular disease (CVD).

Metabolic health and 100% fruit juice

There is a belief that 100% fruit juice (100%FJ), on account of its natural sugar and low fibre levels, as well as its liquid format, could have a detrimental impact on blood glucose control and body weight. However, these views are often based on assumptions rather than solid evidence. This article will review recent studies that have considered these issues.

How do healthcare professionals view 100% fruit juices?

An IPSOS study shows how GPs, Nutriotionists/Dieticians and Paediatricians view 100% fruit juice.

GI and GL of typical foods and beverages

Glycemic index (GI) provides information on how a food or drink is likely to affect blood glucose levels. Additionally, glycemic load (GL) takes into account the portion size. Healthier diets tend to be those with a lower GI and GL. So, how do 100% orange and apple juices compare with other foods?