Research
Anthocyanins
56 peer-reviewed studies curated from PubMed and Semantic Scholar.
Studies
Sorted by quality and recency
Effects of purified anthocyanins supplementation on serum concentration of inflammatory mediators: A systematic review and dose-response meta-analysis on randomized clinical trials.
Systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized clinical trials assessing the effect of purified anthocyanins on serum levels of inflammatory mediators. The study found that anthocyanins significantly decreased serum levels of CRP, TNF-α, and IL-6, indicating a potential anti-inflammatory effect.
Effects of anthocyanin supplementation in diet on glycemic and related cardiovascular biomarkers in patients with type 2 diabetes: a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials.
Systematic review and meta-analysis of 13 RCTs with 703 participants with type 2 diabetes, examining the effects of anthocyanins on glycemic and cardiovascular biomarkers. Anthocyanin supplementation significantly reduced HbA, fasting blood glucose, 2-hour postprandial glucose, triglycerides, and LDL cholesterol, suggesting benefits in managing T2DM and related cardiovascular risks.
Effect of anthocyanins on gut health markers, Firmicutes-Bacteroidetes ratio and short-chain fatty acids: a systematic review via meta-analysis.
This systematic review and meta-analysis examined the influence of dietary anthocyanins on gut health markers, specifically the Firmicutes/Bacteroides ratio and short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs) content. The analysis found that anthocyanin supplementation improved gut health biomarkers in rodents, reducing obesity-induced gut dysbiosis. Anthocyanin-rich diets were more effective when consumed over an extended period and at a high dosage.
Effects of anthocyanin-rich supplementation on cognition of the cognitively healthy middle-aged and older adults: a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials.
Systematic review and meta-analysis of 13 RCTs examining the effects of anthocyanin-rich supplementation on cognition in cognitively healthy middle-aged and older adults. Anthocyanin supplementation significantly improved processing speed but showed no significant effects on memory, attention, executive function, and psychomotor performance. Neuroimaging studies suggest positive effects on brain activation and cerebral perfusion.
Anthocyanins-rich interventions on oxidative stress, inflammation and lipid profile in patients undergoing hemodialysis: meta-analysis and meta-regression.
This meta-analysis evaluated the effects of anthocyanins-rich interventions on oxidative stress, inflammation, and lipid profile in patients undergoing hemodialysis. The analysis included eight studies with 715 patients and found that anthocyanin interventions decreased oxidative stress and inflammatory parameters, and improved lipid profile by increasing HDL cholesterol levels.
The health benefits of anthocyanins: an umbrella review of systematic reviews and meta-analyses of observational studies and controlled clinical trials.
Umbrella review of systematic reviews and meta-analyses examining the effects of anthocyanins on human health. Anthocyanins were associated with reduced risks of hypertension and type 2 diabetes, improved plasmatic lipids, glucose metabolism, and endothelial function, but showed no effect on blood pressure or cancer risks.
In vitro anticancer properties of anthocyanins: A systematic review.
Systematic review of in vitro studies from 2000 to 2021 on the anticancer activity of anthocyanins. The studies indicate that anthocyanins have anticancer potential by inhibiting cancer cell viability and proliferation, controlling cell cycle, and promoting apoptosis.
Anthocyanin as a therapeutic in Alzheimer's disease: A systematic review of preclinical evidences.
Systematic review of preclinical studies examining the efficacy of anthocyanin in Alzheimer's disease. The review highlights anthocyanin's potential in alleviating oxidative stress, neuroinflammation, and cognitive deficits in rodent models of AD.
The effect of anthocyanins supplementation on liver enzymes among patients with metabolic disorders: A systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized clinical trials.
Systematic review and meta-analysis of 12 RCTs examining the effect of anthocyanin supplementation on liver enzymes (ALT and AST) in patients with metabolic disorders. Pooled analysis showed no significant changes in liver enzyme levels after supplementation.
Differences in the Effects of Anthocyanin Supplementation on Glucose and Lipid Metabolism According to the Structure of the Main Anthocyanin: A Meta-Analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials.
Meta-analysis of 18 RCTs categorizing anthocyanins into cyanidin-, delphinidin-, and malvidin-based types. Delphinidin-based anthocyanins showed significant effects on triglycerides, LDL-C, and HDL-C, while cyanidin- and malvidin-based anthocyanins had non-significant favorable effects on TC and HDL-C, respectively. No significant effects on glucose metabolism were confirmed, but insulin resistance index changed with cyanidin- and delphinidin-based anthocyanins.
Anthocyanin supplement as a dietary strategy in cancer prevention and management: A comprehensive review.
This comprehensive review summarizes the latest progress on the cancer prevention and management potential of anthocyanins, highlighting their anti-cancer capacity and mechanisms. It compiles evidence on the anti-cancer effects of anthocyanins and discusses future perspectives for their use as an anti-cancer adjuvant.
Effects of Anthocyanin Supplementation on Reduction of Obesity Criteria: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials.
Systematic review and meta-analysis of 11 RCTs examining the effects of anthocyanin supplementation on obesity criteria. Results showed a significant reduction in BMI, particularly in non-obese groups and with doses less than 300 mg/day for four weeks, but no significant changes in body weight or waist circumference.
Effects of Purified Anthocyanins in People at Risk for Dementia: Study Protocol for a Phase II Randomized Controlled Trial
This phase II randomized controlled trial in Norway evaluates the safety and efficacy of purified anthocyanins in modifying dementia-related mechanisms and maintaining cognitive function in older individuals at risk for dementia. The study involves 220 participants aged 60-80 years, randomized to receive either anthocyanins or placebo for 24 weeks, with primary outcomes focused on episodic memory scores.
The Postprandial Effect of Anthocyanins on Cardiovascular Disease Risk Factors: a Systematic Literature Review of High-Fat Meal Challenge Studies.
Systematic literature review of 13 studies evaluating the effects of anthocyanin consumption on cardiovascular disease risk factors following high-fat meal challenges. Beneficial effects were reported on oxidative stress, antioxidant status, and inflammatory response, with mixed results on endothelial function, triacylglycerol, and cholesterol. Blood pressure and lipoproteins showed the least beneficial results.
The Effect of Anthocyanins on Blood Pressure: A PRISMA-Compliant Meta-Analysis of Randomized Clinical Trials.
Meta-analysis of 6 clinical studies with 472 participants assessing the effect of anthocyanins supplementation on blood pressure. The analysis found no significant effect on systolic or diastolic blood pressure following anthocyanins supplementation.
Effects of blueberry supplementation on blood pressure: a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized clinical trials.
Systematic review and meta-analysis of six RCTs with 204 participants assessing the anti-hypertensive effects of blueberry supplementation. The analysis found no significant effect of blueberry supplementation on blood pressure changes relative to baseline.
Effects of Oral Anthocyanin Supplementation on In Vitro Neurogenesis, Hippocampus-Dependent Cognition, and Blood-Based Dementia Biomarkers: Results from a 24-Week Randomized Controlled Trial in Older Adults At Risk for Dementia (ACID).
This is a secondary analysis of a 24-week randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial of anthocyanin supplementation in 181 older adults at risk for dementia. The study found that anthocyanin supplementation impacts hippocampal progenitor cells and hippocampal-dependent cognition, with blood-based dementia biomarkers correlating with in vitro neurogenesis markers.
Gut enterotype- and body mass index (BMI)-dependent effects of anthocyanin supplementation on gut microbiota composition in individuals at risk for cognitive decline: a randomized placebo-controlled trial.
This 24-week randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial investigated the effects of anthocyanin supplementation on gut microbiota and cognition in older adults at risk of cognitive decline. While cognitive performance was unaffected, anthocyanins selectively modulated the gut microbiome in an age-, BMI-, and enterotype-dependent manner, with specific microbial shifts observed.
Diabetes Therapeutics of Prebiotic Soluble Dietary Fibre and Antioxidant Anthocyanin Supplement in Patients with Type 2 Diabetes: Randomised Placebo-Controlled Clinical Trial.
RCT of 60 T2DM patients comparing antioxidant anthocyanin from riceberry rice combined with prebiotics from rice bran and Jerusalem artichoke to maltodextrin placebo. The supplement group showed improved glucose and lipid profiles, reduced fasting blood glucose, glycated haemoglobin, and LDL, with no significant effects on oxidative stress, inflammation, or cardiorespiratory fitness.
A randomized, placebo-controlled trial of purified anthocyanins on cognitive function in individuals at elevated risk for dementia: Analysis of inflammatory biomarkers toward personalized interventions.
This study is a secondary analysis of a 24-week randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial investigating the effects of purified anthocyanins on cognitive function in individuals at elevated risk for dementia. Results showed that anthocyanin treatment significantly improved cognitive function in individuals with high levels of inflammation biomarkers, but not in those with low levels.
A red-fleshed apple rich in anthocyanins improves endothelial function, reduces inflammation, and modulates the immune system in hypercholesterolemic subjects: the AppleCOR study.
A randomized, parallel study over 6 weeks assessed the effects of a red-fleshed apple rich in anthocyanins, a white-fleshed apple, and an anthocyanin infusion on cardiometabolic risk biomarkers in hypercholesterolemic subjects. The red-fleshed apple improved endothelial function, reduced inflammation markers, and modulated the immune system more effectively than the white-fleshed apple. The anthocyanin infusion improved the lipid profile.
Dietary intake of anthocyanins improves arterial stiffness, but not endothelial function, in volunteers with excess weight: A randomized clinical trial.
RCT of 55 individuals with excess weight comparing anthocyanin intake from açaí-juçara fruit to a non-anthocyanin diet over 12 weeks. Anthocyanin intake improved arterial stiffness (PWV) but did not affect endothelial function (FMD). Both groups showed reduced peripheral vascular resistance.
No Effect of Isolated Anthocyanins from Bilberry Fruit and Black Rice on LDL Cholesterol or other Biomarkers of Cardiovascular Disease in Adults with Elevated Cholesterol: A Randomized, Placebo-Controlled, Cross-Over Trial.
RCT with 52 hyperlipidemic participants testing 320 mg of anthocyanins from bilberry and black rice on LDL cholesterol and other cardiovascular biomarkers. No significant changes were observed compared to placebo, suggesting no effect on glycemic control or lipoprotein profiles.
Dose-dependent reductions in plasma ceramides after anthocyanin supplementation are associated with improvements in plasma lipids and cholesterol efflux capacity in dyslipidemia: A randomized controlled trial.
RCT of 169 dyslipidemia subjects receiving placebo or varying doses of anthocyanins for 12 weeks. Anthocyanins dose-dependently reduced plasma ceramides and improved plasma lipids and cholesterol efflux capacity, particularly at 320 mg/day.
Anthocyanins regulate serum adipsin and visfatin in patients with prediabetes or newly diagnosed diabetes: a randomized controlled trial.
RCT of 160 participants with prediabetes or newly diagnosed diabetes comparing 320 mg anthocyanins to placebo for 12 weeks. Anthocyanins increased serum adipsin, decreased serum visfatin, and improved HbA1c, apo A-1, and apo B levels.
Antiobesity effects of anthocyanins on mitochondrial biogenesis, inflammation, and oxidative stress: A systematic review.
Systematic review of 19 studies on the effects of anthocyanins on obesity. Anthocyanins were found to improve metabolic control by reducing lipogenesis, oxidative stress, and inflammation, and enhancing mitochondrial biogenesis and thermogenesis.
Effect of purified anthocyanins or anthocyanin-rich extracts on C-reactive protein levels: a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomised clinical trials.
Systematic review and meta-analysis of RCTs assessing the effect of purified anthocyanins or anthocyanin-rich extract supplementation on C-reactive protein levels. The analysis found no significant impact of anthocyanins on CRP levels, with effects independent of supplementation duration but dependent on dosage. Further well-designed RCTs are needed to validate these findings.
A systematic literature review of the effect of anthocyanins on gut microbiota populations.
Systematic literature review assessing the effect of anthocyanins on gut microbiota populations. The review included six studies (three in vitro, two animal, and one human) and found that anthocyanins induced a proliferative effect on Bifidobacterium spp. and inhibited Clostridium histolyticum. Further clinical trials in humans are needed to confirm these findings.
Systematic Review of Anthocyanins and Markers of Cardiovascular Disease.
Systematic review of RCTs testing the effects of anthocyanins on cardiovascular disease markers. Anthocyanin supplementation significantly improved LDL cholesterol in diseased individuals or those with elevated biomarkers, but did not significantly affect other CVD markers. No adverse effects were reported at levels up to 640 mg/day.
Standardized Berry Extract Improves Selected Visual Function Outcomes in Presbyopia: A Randomized, Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled Crossover Trial with Exploratory Biomarker Analysis.
RCT of 23 adults aged >50 years comparing AKB, a standardized berry extract, to placebo for 6 weeks. AKB was associated with improvements in visual-function outcomes and changes in circulating biomarkers, though findings are preliminary due to small sample size.
Positive effects of anthocyanin-rich mulberry milk on mental health problems in the working population: an open-label study
Open-label study of 300 healthy participants aged 18–60 years consuming anthocyanin-rich mulberry milk daily for 6 weeks. The study found decreased scores in mental health assessments and reduced cortisol, MAO-A, and MAO-B activities, suggesting improved mood and anxiety symptoms.
Nutraceutical Properties of Thai Mulberry (L.) and Their Effects on Metabolic and Cardiovascular Risk Factors in Individuals with Obesity: A Randomized, Single-Blind Crossover Trial.
A randomized, single-blind crossover trial investigated the effects of a concentrated mulberry drink (CMD) from the KPS-MB-42-1 cultivar on metabolic and cardiovascular risk factors in obese individuals. CMD consumption significantly reduced blood pressure and triglycerides, and lowered C-reactive protein levels compared to placebo. No significant changes in body composition or cholesterol levels were observed.
Plasma anthocyanins and their metabolites reduce in vitro migration of pancreatic cancer cells, PANC-1, in a FAK- and NF-kB dependent manner: Results from the ATTACH-study a randomized, controlled, crossover trial in healthy subjects.
A randomized, controlled, crossover trial involving 35 healthy subjects examined the effects of plasma-isolated anthocyanins and their metabolites on pancreatic cancer cell migration. Plasma extracts after anthocyanin-rich juice intake significantly reduced PANC-1 cell migration and decreased expression of integrins and adhesion molecules. The study suggests potential strategies for metastatic pancreatic cancer treatment.
A randomized placebo-controlled cross-over study on the effects of anthocyanins on inflammatory and metabolic responses to a high-fat meal in healthy subjects.
This randomized placebo-controlled crossover study investigated the effects of a cyanidin- and delphinidin-rich extract (CDRE) on postprandial dysmetabolism and inflammation in healthy individuals consuming a high-fat meal. The CDRE mitigated HFM-induced endotoxemia and reduced plasma glucose, triglyceride increases, and TNFα and NOX4 upregulation in PBMC, but did not significantly affect plasma insulin and cholesterol levels.
Blueberry anthocyanin intake attenuates the postprandial cardiometabolic effect of an energy-dense food challenge: Results from a double blind, randomized controlled trial in metabolic syndrome participants.
A double-blind RCT with 45 participants with metabolic syndrome examined the effects of blueberry anthocyanins on postprandial cardiometabolic response to a high-fat/high-sugar meal. Blueberry intake improved glucose, insulin, total cholesterol, HDL-C, and Apo-A1 levels over 24 hours, suggesting a reduction in the acute cardiometabolic burden of energy-dense meals.
Food anthocyanins decrease concentrations of TNF-α in older adults with mild cognitive impairment: A randomized, controlled, double blind clinical trial.
RCT of 31 older adults with mild cognitive impairment testing the effects of food anthocyanins on inflammation. High dose anthocyanins reduced serum TNF-α concentrations, but did not alter other inflammatory biomarkers, microvascular function, or blood pressure.
Combined anthocyanins and bromelain supplement improves endothelial function and skeletal muscle oxygenation status in adults: a double-blind placebo-controlled randomised crossover clinical trial.
Double-blind placebo-controlled randomised crossover clinical trial investigating the effects of a combined anthocyanins and bromelain supplement on endothelial function, blood pressure, total antioxidant capacity, and oxygen utility capacity in 18 healthy adults. The supplement significantly improved endothelial function, reduced systolic blood pressure, increased oxygen utility capacity, and enhanced total antioxidant capacity compared to placebo.
Anthocyanins attenuate vascular and inflammatory responses to a high fat high energy meal challenge in overweight older adults: A cross-over, randomized, double-blind clinical trial.
This crossover, randomized, double-blind clinical trial investigated the effects of anthocyanins on vascular and inflammatory responses in overweight older adults following a high fat high energy meal. The anthocyanin group showed improved postprandial flow-mediated dilatation and microvascular function, and lower C-reactive protein levels compared to the control group, suggesting potential cardiovascular benefits.
The effect of total anthocyanin-base standardized (Cornus mas L.) fruit extract on liver function, tumor necrosis factor α, malondealdehyde, and adiponectin in patients with non-alcoholic fatty liver: a study protocol for a double-blind randomized clinical trial
This study protocol outlines a double-blind randomized clinical trial to evaluate the effect of cornelian cherry extract, rich in anthocyanins, on liver function and related biomarkers in 80 patients with non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). The intervention group will receive 320 mg of anthocyanins daily for 12 weeks, with liver function and serum biomarkers measured at baseline and trial end.
Lack of a Synergistic Effect on Cardiometabolic and Redox Markers in a Dietary Supplementation with Anthocyanins and Xanthophylls in Postmenopausal Women.
RCT of 72 postmenopausal women comparing the effects of anthocyanins, xanthophylls, or both on cardiometabolic and redox markers over 8 months. No significant changes in blood pressure or inflammatory markers were observed, but plasma glucose levels decreased in the combination group, and antioxidant power increased in all groups.
Antioxidative activity and health benefits of anthocyanin-rich fruit juice in healthy volunteers
A 9-week placebo-controlled intervention study with 57 healthy male volunteers investigated the effects of anthocyanin-rich fruit juice. The juice demonstrated DNA-protective and antioxidant effects, reduced body fat, increased fat-free mass, and elevated superoxide dismutase activity. Both the anthocyanin-rich juice and placebo, rich in vitamin C, improved DNA integrity and influenced lipid metabolism.
Role of Purified Anthocyanins in Improving Cardiometabolic Risk Factors in Chinese Men and Women with Prediabetes or Early Untreated Diabetes-A Randomized Controlled Trial.
A 12-week randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial in 160 Chinese adults with prediabetes or early untreated diabetes. Purified anthocyanins (320 mg/day) moderately reduced HbA1c, LDL-c, apo A1, and apo B compared to placebo, indicating favorable effects on glycemic control and lipid profile.
Encapsulation of anthocyanins from bilberries - Effects on bioavailability and intestinal accessibility in humans.
The study investigated the effects of encapsulating bilberry extract, a source of anthocyanins, with whey protein or citrus pectin on bioavailability and intestinal accessibility in humans. Whey protein encapsulation modulated short-term bioavailability, while citrus pectin encapsulation increased intestinal accessibility and influenced the formation of the degradation product phloroglucinol aldehyde in plasma.
A CONSORT-compliant, randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled pilot trial of purified anthocyanin in patients with nonalcoholic fatty liver disease.
A CONSORT-compliant, randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled pilot trial evaluated the effects of purified anthocyanin supplementation on insulin resistance and liver injury biomarkers in 74 patients with NAFLD. The anthocyanin group showed significant decreases in plasma alanine aminotransferase, cytokeratin-18 M30 fragment, myeloperoxidase, and 2-hour loading glucose level compared to controls, indicating improved insulin resistance and liver health.
Anthocyanins do not influence long-chain n-3 fatty acid status: studies in cells, rodents and humans.
The study investigated the impact of anthocyanins and anthocyanin-rich foods/extracts on plasma and tissue EPA and DHA levels and FADS2 gene expression using cell, rodent, and human models. Anthocyanins had no significant impact on EPA or DHA status or FADS2 gene expression in any model system.
Phenolic metabolites of anthocyanins following a dietary intervention study in post-menopausal women.
The study quantified phenolic metabolites of anthocyanins in post-menopausal women following a 12-week elderberry intervention. Anthocyanin metabolites were identified in urine and plasma, with phenolic metabolites reaching higher concentrations than parent anthocyanins. Chronic exposure did not alter metabolite profiles compared to acute exposure.
Cardiovascular disease risk biomarkers and liver and kidney function are not altered in postmenopausal women after ingesting an elderberry extract rich in anthocyanins for 12 weeks.
RCT in 52 healthy postmenopausal women examining the effect of 500 mg/d elderberry extract rich in anthocyanins on cardiovascular disease risk biomarkers and liver and kidney function over 12 weeks. No significant changes in biomarkers were observed, suggesting the extract is safe but ineffective in altering CVD risk biomarkers.
Plasma urolithin metabolites correlate with improvements in endothelial function after red raspberry consumption: A double-blind randomized controlled trial.
A double-blind randomized controlled crossover trial in 10 healthy males investigated the effects of red raspberry consumption on vascular function. Significant improvements in flow-mediated dilation were observed at 2 and 24 hours post-consumption of raspberry drinks, with plasma metabolites correlating with these improvements.
The pharmacokinetics of anthocyanins and their metabolites in humans.
The study investigated the pharmacokinetics of cyanidin-3-glucoside (C3G) and its metabolites in humans. A 500 mg oral dose of C3G was administered to eight healthy male participants, and various metabolites were identified in the serum, including protocatechuic acid and phloroglucinaldehyde. The study provides insights into the elimination kinetics of these metabolites.
A randomised trial to investigate the effects of acute consumption of a blackcurrant juice drink on markers of vascular reactivity and bioavailability of anthocyanins in human subjects.
Randomised, cross-over, double-blind, placebo-controlled study on the effects of a 20% blackcurrant juice drink on vascular reactivity and bioavailability of anthocyanins in 20 healthy volunteers. The juice did not significantly affect vascular reactivity or cardiovascular risk markers, but increased plasma vitamin C and urinary anthocyanins.
Grape polyphenols exert a cardioprotective effect in pre- and postmenopausal women by lowering plasma lipids and reducing oxidative stress.
RCT with 24 pre- and 20 postmenopausal women consuming lyophilized grape powder (LGP) or placebo for 4 weeks. LGP reduced plasma triglycerides, LDL cholesterol, apolipoproteins B and E, and whole-body oxidative stress, while decreasing plasma tumor necrosis factor-alpha levels, indicating beneficial effects on coronary heart disease risk factors.
Pharmacokinetics of anthocyanins and ellagic acid in healthy volunteers fed freeze-dried black raspberries daily for 7 days.
Clinical trial with 11 subjects to assess the safety and pharmacokinetics of freeze-dried black raspberries. Subjects consumed 45 g daily for 7 days, with anthocyanins and ellagic acid measured in plasma and urine. Maximum concentrations occurred at 1 to 2 hours postdose, with less than 1% absorbed and excreted in urine. No significant changes in pharmacokinetic parameters between days 1 and 7.
Microencapsulation of anthocyanins extracted from black soybean peels by whey protein/fructo‐oligosaccharide contributes to improved stability, bioavailability, and ability to regulate glycolipid metabolism
The study developed a microencapsulation method for anthocyanins from black soybean peels using whey protein and fructo-oligosaccharide to improve stability and bioavailability. Animal experiments showed improved blood glucose and lipid homeostasis in high-fat and high-fructose-treated mice, suggesting potential dietary supplementation benefits.
Microencapsulation with fructooligosaccharides and whey protein enhances the antioxidant activity of anthocyanins and their ability to modulate gut microbiota in vitro.
The study investigates the antioxidative capacity, stability during in vitro digestion, and modulation on gut microbiota of black soybean skin anthocyanins microencapsulated with fructooligosaccharides and whey protein. The microencapsulated anthocyanins exhibit superior antioxidant capacity, enhanced retention during digestion, and positive effects on gut microbiota diversity and SCFA production compared to free anthocyanins.
Human intervention study to investigate the intestinal accessibility and bioavailability of anthocyanins from bilberries.
Human intervention study investigating the bioavailability of anthocyanins from bilberries in subjects with and without a colon. Low bioavailability was observed, with anthocyanins reaching circulation mainly as glucuronides. The colon was identified as a significant site for absorption of anthocyanins and their degradation products.
Current knowledge of anthocyanin metabolism in the digestive tract: absorption, distribution, degradation, and interconversion
This review discusses the metabolism of anthocyanins in the digestive tract, including absorption, distribution, degradation, and interconversion. It covers phase I and II metabolism, enterohepatic circulation, and the role of microbiota in modifying anthocyanins for improved absorption.