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Delphinidins

Also known as: Delphinidins, Anthocyanins, Anthocyanidins, Delphinidin

Overview

Delphinidins are a subclass of anthocyanins, flavonoid pigments responsible for the red, purple, and blue colors found in many fruits and vegetables. They are potent antioxidants and are primarily sourced from berries, grapes, and pomegranates. As dietary supplements, delphinidins are used for their potential to improve cardiovascular health, reduce inflammation, and manage blood sugar levels. However, they are highly unstable and sensitive to pH, temperature, and oxygen, which affects their bioavailability and efficacy. Research on delphinidins is advancing, with several systematic reviews and meta-analyses examining their effects on various health outcomes. The available evidence is generally of moderate to high quality, with well-designed randomized controlled trials (RCTs) and meta-analyses providing insights into their effects.

Benefits

Delphinidins, as part of anthocyanin supplementation, have shown significant benefits in improving blood lipid profiles. A meta-analysis found that anthocyanins significantly reduced triglyceride (SMD = −0.10) and LDL-cholesterol levels (SMD = −0.16) and increased HDL-cholesterol levels (SMD = 0.42). In patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM), anthocyanin supplementation reduced HbA1c levels by 0.31%, indicating improved blood sugar management. While direct effects on C-reactive protein (CRP) levels were not significant in some reviews, the overall anti-inflammatory properties of anthocyanins are well-documented. These benefits are observed over intervention periods ranging from 2 to 24 weeks, with significant effects often seen within 8 weeks, making delphinidins a potentially valuable supplement for cardiovascular and metabolic health.

How it works

Delphinidins act through several biological pathways, including antioxidant activity, anti-inflammatory effects, and modulation of lipid metabolism and glucose homeostasis. They interact with the cardiovascular system by improving lipid profiles and with the metabolic system by enhancing insulin sensitivity and reducing blood glucose levels. Delphinidins can target various molecular pathways, including those involved in inflammation (e.g., NF-κB) and lipid metabolism (e.g., PPARα). The absorption and bioavailability of delphinidins are limited due to their instability and sensitivity to environmental factors, but they can still exert significant biological effects when consumed as part of a balanced diet or as supplements.

Side effects

Anthocyanin supplementation, including delphinidins, is generally considered safe with minimal side effects reported in clinical trials. There are no commonly reported side effects at a frequency greater than 5%. Uncommon side effects, occurring in 1-5% of users, may include gastrointestinal discomfort and allergic reactions. No significant rare side effects (less than 1%) have been reported in the literature. There is limited evidence on drug interactions, but caution should be exercised when using anthocyanin supplements with medications that affect blood sugar or lipid levels. No specific contraindications are noted, but individuals with known allergies to anthocyanin-rich foods should avoid supplementation. Pregnant or breastfeeding women and individuals with chronic diseases should consult healthcare providers before starting any new supplement regimen.

Dosage

The minimum effective dose of anthocyanins, including delphinidins, is around 10 mg/day, as indicated by inclusion criteria in meta-analyses. Optimal dosages range from 100 mg to 1,400 mg per day, with median daily doses in clinical trials often around 320 mg. There is no established maximum safe dose, but doses above 1,400 mg per day are less commonly studied. Timing of supplementation does not appear to be critical, but consistency in daily intake is recommended. Anthocyanin supplements can be taken in various forms, including capsules, tablets, or as part of anthocyanin-rich food extracts. Bioavailability can be enhanced by consuming anthocyanins with fatty meals or using formulations that protect against degradation. No specific cofactors are required, but a balanced diet and adequate hydration can support optimal absorption.

FAQs

Are anthocyanin supplements safe?

Anthocyanin supplements are generally safe, but individuals should be aware of potential gastrointestinal discomfort and allergic reactions. Consult a healthcare provider if you have concerns.

When should I take anthocyanin supplements?

Consistent daily intake is recommended, and there is no specific timing requirement. Choose a time that is convenient for you to maintain regular use.

What results can I expect from taking anthocyanins?

Improvements in blood lipid profiles and glycemic control can be expected, with noticeable effects often seen within several weeks of consistent supplementation.

Are anthocyanins stable?

Anthocyanins are sensitive to environmental factors, such as pH, temperature, and oxygen, which can affect their efficacy. Store supplements properly to maintain their quality.

Research Sources

https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/nutrition/articles/10.3389/fnut.2023.1207751/full – This systematic review and meta-analysis of 41 studies (2,788 participants) found that anthocyanin supplementation significantly reduced triglyceride and LDL-cholesterol levels while increasing HDL-cholesterol levels. The interventions lasted from 2 weeks to several months, demonstrating the potential of anthocyanins to improve blood lipid profiles, though the authors noted heterogeneity among studies and the need for larger, well-designed trials.
https://www.cambridge.org/core/journals/british-journal-of-nutrition/article/effect-of-purified-anthocyanins-or-anthocyaninrich-extracts-on-creactive-protein-levels-a-systematic-review-and-metaanalysis-of-randomised-clinical-trials/9FE97E6AEC0C9F2C560752ED0C29E184 – This systematic review and meta-analysis examined the effect of purified anthocyanins or anthocyanin-rich extracts on C-reactive protein (CRP) levels. The review found no meaningful effect on CRP levels in both healthy participants and patients, suggesting that anthocyanins may not significantly impact this specific marker of inflammation.
https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/nutrition/articles/10.3389/fnut.2023.1199815/full – This systematic review and meta-analysis of 13 RCTs (703 participants with T2DM) showed that anthocyanin supplementation significantly reduced HbA1c levels. The interventions lasted from 4 to 24 weeks, indicating improved blood sugar management in T2DM patients. The authors noted limitations due to the number of studies and variability in intervention duration and dosage.
https://www.researchgate.net/publication/381097393_A_Comprehensive_Review_on_Anthocyanin-rich_foods_Insights_into_Extraction_Medicinal_Potential_and_Sustainable_Applications – This comprehensive review discusses anthocyanin-rich foods, focusing on extraction methods, medicinal potential, and sustainable applications. It provides insights into the various health benefits and applications of anthocyanins, highlighting their role as potent antioxidants and their potential in managing various health conditions.