Anthocyanin-Rich Extracts from Bilberries and Blackcurrants in Human Health: A Narrative Review of Their Anti-Inflammatory and Antioxidant Effects

TL;DR

This review explores how bilberry and blackcurrant extracts rich in anthocyanins may help reduce inflammation and oxidative stress, potentially improving health and aging.

Contribution

The paper highlights the novel potential of anthocyanin-rich extracts from bilberries and blackcurrants in promoting healthy aging and managing chronic diseases.

Findings

Anthocyanin-rich extracts may improve cholesterol levels and reduce inflammation markers.

They show antioxidant and neuroprotective effects that could help prevent chronic diseases.

Supplementation may support blood vessel health and insulin responsiveness.

Abstract

Inflammation and oxidative stress are key mechanisms in aging, contributing to neurodegenerative diseases, cardiovascular diseases, type 2 diabetes, obesity, and other conditions. In the aging process, the increase in reactive oxygen species and the decrease in antioxidant pathways damage cellular components, accelerating deterioration. Persistent inflammation and oxidative stress also favor the progression of diseases such as atherosclerosis, where LDL oxidation and infiltration in the arteries generate plaques that can lead to myocardial infarction or stroke. In addition, inflammation and oxidative stress can affect the immune system, as well as the development of chronic inflammatory diseases and nonalcoholic fatty liver disease, and may affect mental health, healthy menopause and muscle recovery. Research from both human studies and laboratory tests indicates that taking 80–320 mg per day of anthocyanin-rich extracts from bilberries and blackcurrants (Anthocyanin-EBB) can moderately enhance cholesterol levels, lower markers of inflammation, boost blood vessel health, increase insulin responsiveness, and reduce indicators linked to cardiovascular and metabolic risks. They also have antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and neuroprotective effects, helping in the prevention and management of chronic diseases. As a result, supplementation with anthocyanin-rich extracts may be a promising strategy to promote healthy aging and reduce the risk of development and progression of conditions related to oxidative stress and chronic inflammation. Nevertheless, due to the limited patient populations and short follow-up periods in most existing studies, long-term clinical trials are necessary to determine the definitive advantages of Anthocyanin-EBB in clinical practice.

Figures