Vitamin d fortification in orange juice
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Vitamin D Fortification in Orange Juice: Bioavailability and Effectiveness
Bioavailability of Vitamin D in Orange Juice
Research shows that vitamin D, whether in the form of D2 or D3, is well absorbed when added to orange juice. Studies comparing vitamin D-fortified orange juice to vitamin D supplements found no significant difference in how much vitamin D the body absorbs from either source. Both vitamin D2 and D3, when added to orange juice, are as effective as capsules in raising blood vitamin D levels in adults, making orange juice a reliable vehicle for vitamin D fortification 129.
Impact on Vitamin D Status and Health Markers
Consuming orange juice fortified with vitamin D3 (at doses of 1000 IU per 240 mL) for 12 weeks significantly increases blood levels of 25-hydroxyvitamin D, the main marker of vitamin D status. This increase is accompanied by a decrease in parathyroid hormone, which is beneficial for bone health . Similar results are seen in children, where fortified orange juice raises vitamin D levels, though supplements may have a slightly stronger effect .
Additional Health Benefits of Fortified Orange Juice
Recent studies have explored the effects of orange juice enriched with vitamin D3 and other bioactive ingredients, such as probiotics and omega-3 fatty acids. In adults at high risk for cardiometabolic diseases, drinking orange juice fortified with vitamin D3 and probiotics for two months led to weight loss, improved insulin sensitivity, lower blood pressure, and better cholesterol profiles . Another study found that a snack including vitamin D3-enriched orange juice increased feelings of fullness and reduced calorie intake, especially in overweight individuals .
Effects on Body Fat and Visceral Adipose Tissue
Fortifying orange juice with both calcium and vitamin D has been shown to help reduce abdominal visceral fat in overweight and obese adults, even when overall weight loss is similar to those drinking unfortified juice. This suggests a specific benefit of vitamin D (and calcium) fortification for reducing harmful fat around the organs .
Stability and Sensory Qualities of Fortified Orange Juice
Innovative methods, such as using pea protein nanoemulsions, have been developed to stabilize vitamin D in orange juice and other foods. These methods protect vitamin D from breaking down and do not significantly affect the taste or appearance of the juice, making them promising for large-scale fortification efforts .
Population Impact and Acceptance
Vitamin D-fortified orange juice is especially valuable for people who cannot consume dairy due to allergies or lactose intolerance. In some populations, such as Arab-American women, drinking fortified orange juice was linked to higher vitamin D levels compared to those who did not consume fortified foods or supplements . Fortified orange juice is also recognized as a good source of vitamin D in public health materials .
Conclusion
Vitamin D fortification in orange juice is an effective, safe, and well-accepted strategy to improve vitamin D status in both adults and children. It offers a practical alternative for those who avoid dairy and can provide additional health benefits, such as improved metabolic markers and reduced visceral fat. Advances in fortification technology further support its use as a public health measure to address widespread vitamin D deficiency 12345789+1 MORE.
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