Impact of dietary anthocyanins on systemic and vascular inflammation: Systematic review and meta-analysis on randomised clinical trials

Food and Chemical Toxicology (2020)
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31669599/
- This is a meta-analysis of the use of dietary anthocyanins on inflammation (so this is not elderberry-specific). Elderberries are high in anthocyanins so this study has potential ramifications for the benefits of elderberry regarding general inflammation.
- The meta-analysis showed that CRP, IL6, TNF, adiponectin, and VCAM1 (all pro-inflammatory cytokines) were all significantly lower after administration of anthocyanins, and the studies showed low inter-trial heterogeneity and good trial quality.
- Similarly, adiponectin levels were higher with the same study quality notes as above.
- CRP, IL6, TNF and VCAM1 levels were lower with higher doses of anthocyanins.
- This is the opposite finding of many of the primary in vitro studies evaluated and also inconsistent with the RCTs of antiviral and antibacterial exposure. Not clear why this is.
Keywords: meta-analysis, inflammation