Drink orange juice at this exact time to get the most benefits
What time of day is best to drink orange juice (photo: Freepik)
Orange juice can be most beneficial if consumed in the morning and avoided in the evening. This can affect nutrient absorption, blood sugar levels, and even overall well-being, according to Verywell Health.
How orange juice affects immunity and heart health
According to the USDA, one cup of orange juice provides over 100% of the daily recommended vitamin C intake for most people. Vitamin C supports the immune system by helping white blood cells fight infections. It also acts as an antioxidant, protecting cells from damage.
For heart health, orange juice contains potassium, which helps balance fluids and maintain healthy blood pressure.
Flavonoids in orange juice, such as hesperidin, may help reduce inflammation and support vascular health. When consumed properly, orange juice can be part of a heart-healthy diet.
Drink orange juice in the morning
Morning is a popular time to drink orange juice, especially at breakfast. Drinking it in the morning is beneficial because it:
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Reduces stomach irritation – Consuming orange juice with food can help the body absorb vitamin C more gently and reduce stomach discomfort.
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Prevents sudden blood sugar spikes – Pairing juice with protein and healthy fats, such as eggs, yogurt, or nut butter, can slow blood sugar rises. This is important because orange juice contains natural sugars.
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Boosts vitamin C intake – As a water-soluble vitamin, any excess is excreted in urine. Starting the day with vitamin C can support the immune system, which faces daily stress and exposure to microbes.
What happens if you drink it later in the day
Orange juice can still be beneficial later, especially with lunch or dinner. Vitamin C helps the body absorb iron from foods like beans, spinach, and whole grains, which is particularly helpful for those who do not eat much meat.
For heart health, consuming juice with meals may reduce oxidative stress after eating. Oxidative stress occurs when there’s an imbalance between highly reactive molecules produced in cells and antioxidants, like vitamin C. Over time, oxidative stress can affect blood vessels.
Can you drink it on an empty stomach?
Orange juice on an empty stomach may be suitable for some people. However, its natural acids can irritate the stomach lining, especially for those with acid reflux, heartburn, or ulcers.
If you experience stomach discomfort, heartburn, or bloating after drinking orange juice, it’s best to consume it with food.
When to avoid drinking juice
It’s generally best to avoid orange juice late in the evening. Natural sugars can cause blood sugar spikes that may interfere with sleep.
Acidity can also worsen nighttime heartburn for some people. Always choose 100% orange juice with no added sugar.
This material is for informational purposes only and should not be used for medical diagnosis or self-treatment. Our goal is to provide readers with accurate information about symptoms, causes, and methods of detecting diseases. RBС-Ukraine is not responsible for any diagnoses that readers may make based on materials from the resource. We do not recommend self-treatment and advise consulting a doctor in case of any health concerns.
