Named the berry that improves metabolism

Scientists from India have established that a rich set of bioactive compounds - flavonoids, alkaloids, stilbenes, anthocyanins, and polysaccharides in white mulberry (Morus alba) can suppress inflammation and improve glucose metabolism in the body. The research results are published in the journal Discover Food (DisF).

According to laboratory and preclinical studies, white mulberry extracts reduce the activity of inflammatory signals and help cells better cope with oxidative stress - a process that underlies chronic inflammation and exacerbates metabolic disorders.

In animal experiments, such preparations improved insulin sensitivity and reduced glucose levels. Small clinical trials involving humans also demonstrated benefits for the lipid profile - mulberry extract reduced levels of "bad" cholesterol (LDL or low-density lipoproteins). The danger of excess LDL is that they settle on the walls of arteries, causing atherosclerosis. Over time, blood vessels narrow, lose elasticity, which increases blood pressure and impedes blood flow.

Scientists note that products with added mulberry - for example, teas or fermented milk drinks - can maintain a healthier composition of the gut microbiota, which additionally helps control body weight and reduce inflammation.

The authors also emphasize the role of modern delivery technologies: nanoformulations increase the bioavailability of active components and allow them to be more precisely directed to the necessary tissues, which expands the therapeutic possibilities of the plant.

"White mulberry is usually well-tolerated, although side effects from the gastrointestinal tract and interactions with medications are possible - this requires further study. Large clinical studies are needed that will help determine optimal dosages and confirm the potential of mulberry as a means to combat chronic inflammation and carbohydrate metabolism disorders," the scientists concluded.