The Role of Anthocyanins in Health as Antioxidant, in Bone Health and as Heart Protecting Agents

It was believed since last three decades that anthocyanins have healthy effects on human organs and organs systems. There are now many evidenced-based nutrition studies including epidemiological surveys, animal studies and randomized controlled trials that have elucidated the mechanism behind the positive influence of anthocyanins on various tissues, organs and organ systems of human beings. Anthocyanins in nature mainly exist as heterosides and are not listed and recognized as essential nutrients. Their health benefits are mainly associated with their antioxidant properties, which clearly are influenced by the molecular mechanism related to the expression and modulation of key genes. The present chapter highlights the various studies indicating the co-relation between consumption of anthocyanins and well-being of various parts of human body. Keywords Anthocyanins Antioxidant activity Cardiovascular effects Human studies