A new study has claimed that the antioxidants in orange juice could prevent the onset of diabetes . Scientists at Nottingham University have found that the antioxidants provided by a daily glass of orange juice could help to ward off diabetes through benefits to blood vessels that lead to improvements in insulin sensitivity.

The research showed that overweight women who take the juice have reduced risk of insulin resistance, a condition also known as pre-diabetes . Pre-diabetes results then the body becomes less responsive to the hormone insulin, which controls blood sugar levels.

If the insulin resistance is not treated properly, it often brings on type 2 diabetes, and its attendant risks, such as heart disease, stroke or kidney failure . In the trial, the women are given either 250ml of orange juice or a placebo orange-flavoured drink over a 14-week period, to test the effects of the juice.

The researchers said "People are encouraged to lose weight to reduce their risk of diabetes, but dietary modifications may help maximise benefits of this weight loss ."

As well as containing antioxidants, oranges, and other citrus fruits, are low in fat and rich in natural sugars, and are a useful part of a healthy diet, also beneficial for keeping diabetes at bay.