Anthocyanins, derived from the Greek words "anthos" meaning flower and "kyanos" meaning blue, are water-soluble flavonoid pigments that appear red to blue, according to pH. They are created by plants and provide color in leaves, stems, roots, flowers, and fruits.
Richly concentrated in berries, anthocyanins were the topic of research presented at a 2007 symposium on the health benefits of berries. Researchers presented anthocyanins potential health effects against:
- Cancer
- Aging
- Neurological diseases
- Inflammation
- Diabetes
- Bacterial infections
As of 2003 more than 400 anthocyanins had been reported while more recent literature (early 2006), puts the number at more than 550.
Healing Tip: Anthocyanins are found in fresh and frozen berries, but not in processed foods.