Berries: Health Effects via Modulation of the Gut Microbiota

Abstract

Berries are widely regarded as beneficial foods, rich in polyphenols, flavonoids, and other bioactive compounds that could positively influence human health. Although the gut microbiota plays a crucial role in metabolism and physiology of humans, the interaction between berries and human gut microbiota activity remains unclear. This review systematically summarizes the antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and gut microbiota-regulating effects of various berries. It focuses on the impact of berries on several related metabolic diseases in addition to adverse outcomes associated with environmental exposures from the perspective of modulation of the gut microbiota. Overall, berries may actively modulate the gut microbiota, influencing the composition of the microbiota especially production of bioactive metabolites, thereby conferring health effects. This review aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of health impact of berries via interactions with the gut microbiota, offering insights into the potential application of berries in maintaining human health.