In March 2018 researchers from Germany and Saudi Arabia published the results of their study to assess how orange juice and cola affected the metabolic risk in 26 healthy adults (average age 25 years, average BMI 23 kg/m2). For two 2-week periods the individuals consumed either orange juice or cola in between their 3 meals per day. Glycemic control, uric acid metabolism and gut microbiota were assessed at the end of each intervention. Results showed that faecal microbiota, body weight, and insulin sensitivity remained unchanged after both intervention periods. Regular consumption of large amounts of orange juice did not appear to increase the risk of gout and may in fact have even contributed to lower uric acid levels. Uric acid levels did not change with the 2-week cola consumption. However, compared to orange juice, consumption of cola resulted in impaired insulin secretion, an increase in glucose variability, and a lower 24 h-insulin secretion, which may be explained by a decrease in serum potassium levels.
Büsing F et al. High intake of orange juice and cola differently affects metabolic risk in healthy subjects. Clin Nutr. 2018 Mar 3. [Epub ahead of print]