What are Anthocyanins? Benefits and Side Effects of Its Consumption

Anthocyanins, which are also called neutraceuticals, are water-soluble vacuolar pigments that, depending on their pH, may appear in different colors such as red, purple, blue, or black.

The word “anthocyanins” is gotten from the Ancient Greek words ἄνθος (ánthos) ‘flower’, and κυανος/κυανοῦς (kuáneos/kuanoûs) ‘dark blue’).

A German pharmacist, Ludwig Clamor Marquart gave the name “anthokyan” to a chemical compound that gives flowers a blue color for the first time in his treatise “Die Farben der Blüten” in 1835.

Food plants such as blueberry, raspberry, black rice, and black soybean, among many others are rich in anthocyanins and some of the colors of autumn leaves are derived from anthocyanins.

Types of Anthocyanins

Types of Anthocyanins

Among the 6,000 known flavonoids, there are six main types of anthocyanins and they are:

  1. Cyanidin
  2. Delphinidin
  3. Malvidin
  4. Pelargonidin
  5. Peonidin
  6. Petunidin

Anthocyanins in Fruits and Vegetables

They are found in some fruits and veggies. Here is a list containing the names of fruits and vegetables that contain anthocyanins and the amount of anthocyanin they contain.

Fruits and Vegetables Amount of Anthocyanins Present 
MulberriesMulberries contain 1.4–704 mg 
Black chokeberriesBlack chokeberries contain 46–558 mg
Black elderberriesBlack elderberries contain 17–463 mg 
Black currantsBlack currants contain 25–305 mg 
Sweet cherriesSweet cherries contain 7–143 mg 
BlackberriesBlackberries contain 10–139 mg 
LingonberriesLingonberries contain 4–49 mg 
StrawberriesStrawberries contain 4–48 mg of this substance 
Sour cherriesSour cherries contain 3–44 mg 
Red raspberriesRed raspberries contain 5–38 mg 
Black grapesBlack grapes contain 3–39 mg 
PlumsPlums contain 5–34 mg 
BlueberriesBlueberries contain 11–26 mg 
Black beansBlack beans contain 1–15 mg of anthocyanins.
Red currents Red currants contain 2–11 mg 
Red wineRed wine contains 4–10 mg 
Red onions Red onion contains 7 mg 

Possible Health Benefits of Anthocyanins

Why you need to consume anthocyanins.

Here are some of the possible Health benefits of consuming anthocyanins.

  • Anthocyanins May Lower Blood Pressure.

According to a review done by 66 studies, anthocyanins may help in reducing blood pressure. The study participants diagnosed with hypertension took a variety of extracts and preparations from anthocyanin-containing plants and when the study was carried out, it was discovered that there was a consistent lowering effect on blood pressure. 

  • Anthocyanins May Prevent Neurological Diseases.

Neuroinflammation plays a very critical role in the development of many brain disorders and data gathered from in vitro and in vivo studies have shown that anthocyanins significantly reduce the chronic inflammatory state in such pathological conditions.

Some research carried out have also shown that anthocyanins May help protect and improve the brain function.

In one study, they found out that a daily dose of cherry juice improved speech and memory in people aged 70 and over with mild or moderate dementia and in another study, anthocyanins were reported to increase blood flow and activate brain areas that control memory, language and attention.

  • Anthocyanins May Slow Cancer Growth.

Anthocyanins may act in many ways to slow or stop the growth of cancer. Some studies have shown that anthocyanins might do any of the following:

  1. Anthocyanins can block the changes in DNA that can cause cancer.
  2. They may destroy cancer cells or stop their growth.
  3. They may prevent tumors from becoming malignant (cancerous).
  4. They may reverse drug resistance and increase tumors’ sensitivity to chemotherapy.
  • Anthocyanins May Reduce Inflammation.

Anthocyanins are said to contain antimicrobial, antioxidative, anti-inflammatory, and anti-mutagenic properties, which play a role on the prevention and treatment of many chronic diseases such as metabolic disorders, cancer, eye diseases and cardiovascular diseases and a whole lot more!.

  • Anthocyanins May Improve Heart Health.

Anthocyanins contain protective oxidative stress properties which are used in cardiovascular disease prevention. They are believed to act on different cells associated with the development of atherosclerosis.

Atherosclerosis is defined as the buildup of cholesterol plaque in the walls of arteries, causing obstruction of blood flow.

Extraction Process Of Anthocyanins

Extraction is defined as the first step to separate desired natural products from the raw materials. There are so many types of extraction methods, among these extraction methods, the most applied techniques to extract anthocyanins are: 

  1. Ultrasound-Assisted Extraction (UAE)
  2. Microwave-Assisted Extraction (MAE)
  3. Supercritical Fluid Extraction (SFE)
  4. High-Pressure Liquid Extraction (HPLE)
  5. Pulsed Electric Fields (PEFE)
  6. High Voltage Electrical Discharge (HVED)
  7. Enzyme Assisted Extraction (EAE). 

Side Effects of Consuming Excessive Anthocyanin Supplements

Anthocyanin supplements are drugs made fr anthocyanins.

Foods rich in anthocyanin are generally considered safe. However, the same cannot be said about anthocyanin supplements as some of them can be very harmful to the body.

Anthocyanin supplements may provide a larger quantity of polyphenols than can be gotten from a healthy diet.

Animal studies indicate that a high dose of polyphenol supplements may damage the kidneys, cause tumors, or unbalance thyroid hormones.

Anthocyanin Supplements

Anthocyanin supplements are typically berry-based, and come in the form of capsules, soft gels or tablets. These supplements are also available in gummies and juice.

Anthocyanins have been found to exhibit several health benefits. A diet containing anthocyanin-rich foods can significantly reduce the risk of type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular disease and inflammation.

Antioxidant

Anthocyanins (an-tho-SY-uh-nins) are part of a group of plant-based chemicals called flavonoids. They give plants their red, purple and blue colors, help them reproduce by attracting pollinators and protect plants from environmental stressors like sunlight, pollution and cigarette smoke. They also act as an antioxidant, destroying unstable molecules called free radicals that can damage cells. Free radicals occur naturally as a byproduct of the body’s metabolism and can also be introduced from exposure to pollutants, cigarette smoke, alcohol and harmful chemicals.

Studies on anthocyanins show they have many health benefits, including the ability to prevent and treat cancer. They have also been shown to reduce the risk of heart disease and lower blood pressure. They can also help to regulate cholesterol levels. In one study, anthocyanins were found to lower serum TC and LDL-cholesterol while raising HDL-cholesterol in patients with dyslipidemia.

Some research has shown that anthocyanins can also help to prevent and control diabetes. They can slow down the progression of diabetic retinopathy and improve blood sugar control in people with type 2 diabetes. They can also reduce inflammation in the eye and improve vision.

In addition to their antioxidant properties, anthocyanins have anti-inflammatory and anticarcinogenic properties. They have been shown to protect against various types of cancer, including colon and prostate cancer. They may also prevent oxidation of LDL-cholesterol, which can lead to atherosclerosis.

The best source of anthocyanins is a healthy diet that includes plenty of fruits and vegetables. But if you want an easy way to get anthocyanins, supplements are an excellent option. Look for supplements that contain high-quality ingredients and are independently tested for safety. It’s also important to look for anthocyanins that are standardized to ensure they have the same potency.

Anti-inflammatory

Anthocyanins have been shown to inhibit inflammatory response and increase nitric oxide in the bloodstream, which improves cardiovascular health. They also have anti-aging effects by protecting against oxidative damage and increasing collagen production, which reduces the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. Additionally, anthocyanins can improve your memory and cognitive function. In addition, they can reduce your risk of macular degeneration, and help you maintain normal eye function. You can find anthocyanins in a wide range of fruits and vegetables, including berries (blueberry, raspberry, blackberry), dark cherries, red grapes, purple corn, red cabbage, and the skin of black beans and black rice.

In one study, researchers gave participants a high-anthocyanin cherry extract for two weeks and found that it improved their performance during endurance-based exercise training. They found that the anthocyanin cherry extract increased VO2 max, a measure of a person’s capacity to transport oxygen and other nutrients to their muscles during intense exercise. It also reduced muscle damage and post-exercise soreness, as well as improving neuromuscular function and strength.

Another study found that people who consumed anthocyanin-rich foods had better vision than those who did not. It may have to do with how anthocyanins protect the retina against oxidative stress. This is especially important for people who are at risk of age-related macular degeneration.

Although anthocyanin supplements are available, it’s better to get them from whole foods. Supplements are regulated less strictly than food, and they often contain large amounts of other polyphenols that could cause harm. It’s also important to choose a quality product that is manufactured in a cGMP-registered facility. Finally, check the ingredients list carefully and compare prices to make sure you are getting a good value for your money.

Anticarcinogenic

Anthocyanins have been shown in both animal and human trials to have anti-carcinogenic, antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects. One of the ways they do this is by interfering with the growth of tumor cells and helping to reduce drug resistance in cancer patients. Another way they may inhibit tumor growth is by blocking the activation of mitogen-activated protein kinase pathways that lead to cell proliferation (14).

The antioxidant properties of anthocyanins are important for cardiovascular health because they help to protect against oxidative damage. They do this by neutralizing free radicals and inhibiting lipid peroxidation (15). In addition, they also have the ability to prevent DNA damage and cellular senescence (16). The antioxidant properties of anthocyanins can even reverse oxidative stress in the brain (17).

Adding anthocyanin rich foods and supplements to your diet is a great way to improve your overall health. However, it is important to choose a quality supplement that has been independently tested for purity and potency. You should also look for a product that is made from high-quality, organic ingredients and is manufactured in a cGMP certified facility in the US. The SymNutrition Bilberry Extract contains a high-quality, vegan anthocyanin formulation that has been thoroughly tested for purity and efficacy. It is made in a cGMP-registered facility in the US and comes with a 180-day, no questions asked money back guarantee.

Anthocyanins can be found in many fruits and vegetables including blueberries, purple corn, red grapes, blackcurrants, cranberries, acai berry, chokeberry and more. They are naturally occurring compounds that give plants their color and provide a wide range of health benefits. These nutrients can help to protect against inflammatory conditions, boost cognitive function and memory3 and assist in weight loss by inhibiting the formation of fat cells and improving metabolic processes1. Anthocyanins have been shown to be very effective at treating a variety of medical problems and are an excellent alternative to pharmaceutical drugs.

Anti-microbial

Anthocyanins have strong anti-microbial properties. They can eliminate free radicals and reactive species, chelate metals, control signalling pathways and diminish pro-inflammatory markers [109]. The phenolic compounds are particularly effective in inhibiting the growth of microorganisms that cause food-borne diseases. Anthocyanins also exhibit immunomodulatory effects and improve immune response in animal models.

In addition, the anthocyanins have anti-carcinogenic activities in vitro and in vivo and can suppress the proliferation of tumour cells. The anthocyanin-rich black rice extract is also able to induce cell apoptosis and suppress angiogenesis in human breast cancer cells. These effects are the result of anthocyanin’s ability to regulate phosphorylation and oxidative stress of the cell. The apocarotenic activity of anthocyanins is associated with the inhibition of the production of inflammatory mediators and the increase in expression of anti-inflammatory proteins, such as sialidase 1. Anthocyanins also enhance the apoptosis of leukemia cells in vivo.

Cardiovascular pathologies are the principal cause of death worldwide and anthocyanin bioflavonoids have been shown to significantly attenuate or even prevent their occurrence by modulating lipid metabolism, fat deposition, blood pressure, endothelial function and expression of vascular adhesion molecules. Cyanidin, peonidin 3-O-glucoside and pelargonidin have been found to be effective in reducing lung cancer progression in rat xenograft models, showing reductions around 40% [110].

Furthermore, the antioxidant properties of anthocyanins can significantly reduce the incidence of diabetes and pancreatic disorders by preventing the generation of hydroxyl radicals from DNA damage and by limiting lipid peroxidation. Moreover, anthocyanins can suppress weight gain, promote eye health, control blood sugar levels and prevent the development of insulin resistance in mice. They have also been shown to protect the pancreatic cells against apoptosis, stimulate hepatic glycogenesis and stimulate insulin secretion.

Cardiovascular

Anthocyanins, a subgroup of flavonoids found in plants like berries and blueberries, have gained attention for their potential as a cardiovascular health ingredient. Studies have shown anthocyanin supplements to decrease inflammation and oxidative stress markers, as well as improve vascular function by decreasing low-density lipoprotein and increasing high-density lipoprotein. They have also been shown to improve glucose homeostasis and cognitive function.

In one study, supplementation with a blend of anthocyanin-rich foods (blueberry, aronia berry, cranberry, and pomegranate) was shown to lower glycemic indexes, total cholesterol and LDL-cholesterol levels in diabetic rats. Additionally, anthocyanins have been shown to decrease oxidative stress in the liver and kidney, and may even help inhibit adipogenesis.

Cardiovascular disease is the leading cause of death in the world. With the growing prevalence of chronic diseases and an aging population, it is important to support heart health with healthy lifestyle choices and dietary supplements. Anthocyanins have been shown to provide significant antioxidant and anti-inflammatory benefits, as well as promote blood vessel flexibility by increasing nitric oxide.

In addition, anthocyanins have been demonstrated to positively impact gut health and the microbiota, which plays a vital role in immune regulation. They have been shown to increase the expression of peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor gamma in human immune cells, attenuating inflammation and antagonizing proinflammatory transcription pathways. In addition, anthocyanins can be synergistic with other bioactive compounds, enhancing their immunomodulatory properties. This enhances the potential for anthocyanins as a immune-supporting dietary supplement. In addition, anthocyanins are known to interact with multiple cell types within the innate immune system, including lymphocytes, macrophages, and dendritic cells. This interaction allows them to regulate immune response and prevent an inflammatory response that may lead to chronic diseases.