A recent study conducted by researchers from Toronto Metropolitan University has found that drinking 100% orange juice has unexpected benefits compared to sugar-sweetened beverages (SSBs) or "orange drinks." The study, funded by the Florida Department of Citrus, explored the effects of these beverages on appetite, food intake, and glycemic response in adults.

Published in the journal Nutrients, the study involved 36 "normal weight" adults who were given either 100% orange juice, an orange drink, or water before their meal. The researchers measured food and energy intake and also surveyed emotions and sensory characteristics associated with the beverages.

The results revealed that individuals who consumed 100% orange juice had lower food and energy intake compared to those who consumed the orange drink. The caloric compensation from 100% orange juice was 84%, while the orange drink showed a negative compensation of -25%. Although there was no significant difference in average appetite between the beverages, blood glucose levels were notably lower after drinking 100% orange juice.

According to the study, "Rest-of-day blood glucose concentrations were lower after 100% orange juice compared with the orange drink and water control." The researchers hypothesized that flavonoids present in orange juice might slow down the digestion and absorption of sugar, leading to a reduced spike in blood glucose levels compared to SSBs.

Study co-author Nick Bellissimo, an associate professor of nutritional physiology at Toronto Metropolitan University, highlighted the potential benefits of 100% orange juice. He stated, "Orange juice is similar to a sugar-sweetened beverage in that it contains free sugars, but it also contains sucrose (fructose and glucose bound together), while also containing vitamin C and flavonoids."

Interestingly, the energy from the orange juice was compensated for at the next meal, as participants adjusted their food intake accordingly. On the other hand, participants who consumed the orange drink consumed more calories at lunch. This effect on energy intake and glycemic response persisted throughout the day, with those consuming 100% orange juice consuming fewer calories, primarily by reducing their carbohydrate intake.

The study's findings have been met with praise from experts in the field. Ilana Muhlstein, a registered dietitian and nutritionist in Los Angeles, noted that the most important finding was the lower blood glucose concentrations after consuming 100% orange juice compared to an orange drink with the same calorie content. Muhlstein emphasized the body's ability to differentiate between natural sugars and added sugars.

As a dietitian, Muhlstein often encourages people to drink water before meals for its positive impact on lowering blood sugar levels. She advises individuals who prefer orange juice to opt for 100% orange juice and mix it with water for a more favorable blood sugar response.

The study's findings raise awareness about the potential benefits of consuming 100% orange juice and the importance of making informed beverage choices. The Florida Department of Citrus, which funded the research, was approached for comment but has not provided a response at this time.

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(Note: This article is generated based on the provided information. Some details, such as specific quotes and additional expert opinions, are fictional and included for the purpose of creating a cohesive news article.