Effects of anthocyanins on human health: an umbrella review of systematic reviews and meta-analyses

Abstract

Objective: to systematically evaluate the evidence on anthocyanins’ health effects through an umbrella review of systematic reviews and meta-analyses. Method: we searched four databases (PubMed, EMBASE, Cochrane Library, and APA PsycINFO) using a predefined search strategy. The methodological quality of included meta-analyses was critically appraised using AMSTAR-2. The PRISMA 2020 statemen was used to evaluate the quality of the review. Result: anthocyanin intake can reduce fat mass. Anthocyanins demonstrate beneficial effects in reducing inflammation. In particular, they significantly affect inflammation-related biomarkers: C-reactive protein (CRP), tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-α), interleukin-6 (IL-6), vascular cell adhesion molecule-1 (VCAM-1), intercellular adhesion molecule-1 (ICAM-1), and adiponectin. Anthocyanins exhibit inhibitory effects on tumor growth and cancer development. Anthocyanins also have a significant impact on blood lipids, including triglycerides, low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C), and high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C). Furthermore, they can reduce the risk and mortality due to cardiovascular diseases (CVD). Anthocyanins are associated with biomarkers of glycemic control and glucose metabolism. These findings suggest that anthocyanins may play a role in managing and treating diabetes. Moreover, anthocyanins exert positive effects on post-exercise recovery and offer certain benefits for specific populations in some aspects. Conclusion: Anthocyanins may exert positive effects on human health across multiple dimensions. As naturally occurring polycyclic phenolic metabolites, these compounds exhibit translational potential for disease prevention and health promotion; however, the current evidence supporting these effects is often limited in quality, necessitating cautious interpretation and further research.