Researchers from the University of Hasselt, Belgium, investigated the impact of different forms of orange consumption on blood glucose and insulin responses in individuals with type 2 diabetes. The study involved adults with well-controlled diabetes who consumed a high-carbohydrate breakfast accompanied by either whole oranges, a 250ml serving of 100% orange juice, or an orange-flavored beverage with added sugars. Blood sugar and insulin levels were monitored for four hours, providing insights into dietary management.
Dr Kenneth Verboven, the study's principal investigator, remarked: "We believed that the lowest blood glucose levels would be seen when someone ate fruit with breakfast, while orange juice and a sugary drink would cause higher glucose levels. In fact, there were no differences." He suggested that the primary glycemic response stemmed from the carbohydrate-rich elements of the breakfast, such as bread, rather than the orange products themselves.
Despite the similar blood sugar impacts, Dr Verboven advised against sugary drinks with breakfast, noting a lack of nutritional benefits. Conversely, they noted that 100% orange juice provides vitamins, minerals, and bioactives akin to whole oranges. For individuals unable to consume whole fruit, a modest daily glass of 100% fruit juice was suggested as a practical substitute.
Additional research by Ipsos, under commission from Swedish food tech firm Picadeli, indicated a dietary gap in fruit and vegetable consumption among Britain's Gen Z adults, with 86% falling below WHO recommendations. Researchers emphasized that incorporating a daily glass of 100% fruit juice might help fill this nutritional void.
According to EU and UK regulations, 100% orange juice undergoes minimal processing without added sugars or preservatives, offering a substantial portion of the recommended daily vitamin C intake. Dr Carrie Ruxton, a nutritionist, affirmed: "With fruit intake alarmingly low across Europe, adding a small daily glass of fruit juice into your diet can be an easy way to make sure you consume important nutrients and vitamins. This study shows that you don't need to avoid fruit juice if you have well-controlled diabetes and can instead benefit from the vitamins and minerals." She also suggested high fiber breakfasts as a method to manage blood sugar responses.
Source: Mirror
