Recent research published in the Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry has uncovered promising cardiovascular health benefits from an extract made from orange peels. This discovery adds to the growing body of evidence linking gut microbiome health to overall well-being, including heart health. Previous studies have already shown the positive effects of foods like blueberries, legumes, chia seeds, and leafy greens on cardiovascular health.

The study zeroes in on trimethylamine N-oxide (TMAO), an organic compound produced when gut bacteria digest certain foods like red meat and dairy products. TMAO has been associated with increased risks for heart disease, including conditions like atherosclerosis, high blood pressure, atrial fibrillation, and stroke, as well as chronic kidney disease and colorectal cancer.

The research team, led by Dr. Yu Wang from the UF/IFAS Citrus Research and Education Center at the University of Florida, explored the potential of orange peels to reduce TMAO production. They discovered that specific chemicals in orange peel extracts could inhibit the harmful compounds that affect cardiovascular health. Given that most orange peels from juice production are wasted or used as cattle feed, this finding suggests a valuable new use for these byproducts.

Researchers developed two types of orange peel extracts: one with a polar fraction and one with a non-polar fraction. The non-polar fraction was effective in stopping TMAO production in mice, while a compound in the polar fraction significantly inhibited the enzyme responsible for TMA production. This dual discovery expands the understanding of how different compounds in orange peels can contribute to heart health.

Dr. Wang indicated ongoing research to determine if similar beneficial compounds can be identified in other citrus fruits and juices, and how these compounds can be increased in citrus products.

Cardiologists and nutritionists, such as Dr. Cheng-Han Chen and Monique Richard, emphasize the importance of understanding the interaction between the gut microbiome and diet. They suggest that insights from this research could lead to dietary recommendations and therapeutic advances to improve cardiovascular health. Richard also highlights the benefits of incorporating more fruits and vegetables into the diet, noting that citrus fruits, including their peels, offer a range of beneficial nutrients and fibers.

However, Richard cautions that orange peel extracts and orange juice can interact with medications such as statins, antibiotics, and beta-blockers. She advises using organic, thoroughly washed orange peels in cooking and other applications to avoid pesticide residues and digestive discomfort

Incorporating a variety of citrus fruits, along with their peels, can support gut and heart health, bringing multiple benefits to the diet and overall wellness.