Berry polyphenols and human health: evidence of antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, microbiota modulation, and cell-protecting effects

• Published in: Current opinion in food science 2021-12, Vol.42, p.167-186
• Main Authors: Pap, Nora, Fidelis, Marina, Azevedo, Luciana, do Carmo, Mariana Araújo Vieira, Wang, Dongxu, Mocan, Andrei, Pereira, Eliene Penha Rodrigues, Xavier-Santos, Douglas, Sant’Ana, Anderson S, Yang, Baoru, Granato, Daniel
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• ISSN: 2214-7993; 2214-8000
• DOI: 10.1016/j.cofs.2021.06.003

[Display omitted] •Berries have in vitro and in vivo antioxidant properties.•Studies reveal in vitro and in vivo anti-hypertensive and antihyperglycemic activities.•Berries modulate pro-inflammatory markers, antioxidant enzymes, and signaling pathways.•The consumption and effects can positively modulate the intestinal microbiota. Studies have revealed more positive effects of berries’ components over the years, representing a growing trend in their consumption. Phenolic compounds, such as anthocyanins, flavonols, and phenolic acids occur in different concentrations depending on the berry type. Significant trends to exploit the beneficial compounds were collected, with mostly novel and environmentally friendly techniques, such as ultrasound, microwave, and high-pressure technologies. Abundant phenolic compounds present in different berries (raspberry, blueberry, goji berry, blackcurrant, strawberry, cranberry, and blackberry) were summarized based on up-to-date information and their beneficial health effects. The antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antihypertensive, and antihyperglycemic activities in vitro and in vivo were comprehensively reviewed. Recent studies allied to in vivo results and positive findings to reduce oxidative stress, for example, support that berries and their functional products represent a prominent economic potential to maintain human health and function.