Aronia Berry Extract May Support Arterial Health

Aronia berries are small, dark berries that are a very rich source of plant antioxidants. According to a new report, supplementation with aronia berries may help support arterial health.

Participants in the study included 102 adults with pre-hypertension and an average age of 55. Half consumed capsules containing 500 mg of aronia berry extract and the other half consumed a placebo daily for 12 weeks. The researchers measured blood pressure, arterial function, endothelial function, and gut microbiome composition at baseline and at the end of the study period.

The aronia berry participants saw a significant improvement in pulse wave velocity, which is a measure of arterial stiffness. No changes were seen in blood pressure or endothelial function.

Participants in the aronia berry group also saw a significant increase in gut microbiome gene richness. They also saw an increase in beneficial bacteria that produce butyrate. Butyrate is a substance produced by gut bacteria that helps keep the cells lining your intestinal tract healthy.

The study was conducted by researchers from King’s College London. It was published online ahead of print on August 22, 2022 in the journal Clinical Nutrition.