MILLIONS of people are putting themselves at risk of heart disease by drinking a daily glass of fruit juice.

Researchers have found that those who regularly enjoy the popular breakfast drink have significantly higher blood pressure than those who only have it occasionally.

Scientists found people who had a daily glass of juice had significantly higher central blood pressure. This is pressure in the aorta, the large artery into which the heart pumps oxygen-rich blood to spread around the body.

High central blood pressure can increase the risk of problems such as a heart attack or angina.

Lead author of the study, Dr Matthew Pase, from the Swinburne University of Technology in Hawthorn, Victoria, in Australia, said: “The findings suggest the daily use of fruit juice may increase central blood pressures, which are known to be associated with cardiovascular disease risk and cognitive impairment – problems with mental functioning.

Lead author of the study, Dr Matthew Pase, from the Swinburne University of Technology in Hawthorn, Victoria, in Australia, said: “The findings suggest the daily use of fruit juice may increase central blood pressures, which are known to be associated with cardiovascular disease risk and cognitive impairment – problems with mental functioning.

"These findings are important because there is a common perception that fruit juice is healthy.

More on this story here.