Anthocyanin intake and Arterial Stiffness: A Literature Review

There is a well-established association between aging, arterial stiffness, endothelial dysfunction, oxidative stress and the ensuing increased cardiovascular risk. Agents with antioxidant activity can improve endothelial function and arterial stiffness. Açaí-juçara is a fruit rich in anthocyanins, which are powerful antioxidants, and its daily consumption may have beneficial effects on vascular health, especially on central pulse pressure and pulse wave velocity. As anthocyanins may improve vascular health, especially central pulse pressure, dietary intake of anthocyanin-rich foods may reduce cardiovascular risk. Thus, this study aimed to review the effects of dietary intake of anthocyanins and its potential associations with central blood pressure improvement in overweight and obese individuals.