Description
Anthocyanins are bioflavonoids that
function as red, purple, and blue pigment in many fruits, vegetables, cereal
grains, and flowers. They occur in nearly all plants in their leaves, stems,
and roots but are most commonly found in fruits and flowers.
Anthocyanins are known primarily for their
antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. As antioxidants, anthocyanins
help rid the body of the free radicals that cause oxidative damage in the body.
Studies have shown that anthocyanins have a wide range of health benefits
including the prevention and treatment of the following conditions: cancer,
coronary heart disease, and circulatory conditions such as gout. They are also
taken to treat bladder infections and urinary tract infections, as well as to
improve vision. Anthocyanins have been used as a natural food coloring in
products such as beverages, fruit fillings, and dairy products.
The kinds of anthocyanins
Scientists have identified more than 500
different anthocyanins. They are the largest group of water-soluble pigments in
the plant kingdom and belong to the family of compounds known as flavonoids.
Scientists have identified several hundred
different anthocyanins, including pelargonidin, malvidin, delphinidin,
peonidin, and cyanidin, all attached to a sugar molecule. Anthocyanidins are
similar to anthocyanins but they do not have a sugar molecule.
Biological activity
Anthocyanins have a wide range of
biological activities including antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial
and anti-cancer activities.
Sources of Anthocyanins
Rich sources of anthocyanins include red
and purple fruits such blueberries, blackberries, acai berries, bilberries,
cranberries, cherries, raspberries, and purple grapes. Anthocyanins can also be
found in eggplant, red cabbage, and red wine.
Benefits of Anthocyanins
>Antioxidant,
>Anti-inflammatory,
>Antimicrobial
>Anti-cancer
>Blood pressure
>Cholesterol and blood lipids
>Parkinson's disease
There are Anthocyanin Series available from Nutragreen
biotechnology such as
facebook
twitter
linkedin