Elderberry juice - natural way to fight viruses

In an article posted on its website, Health Digest unveils that elderberry juice has gained attention for its potential health benefits, including its ability to support immune function, reduce blood sugar levels, and aid in weight management. 

For thousands of years, elderberry juice has been a part of traditional home remedies. Recent findings suggest that it may actually have real health benefits, including helping to reduce blood sugar, aid in weight management, and boost the immune system.

In a 2024 study published in Nutrients, participants were asked to drink elderberry juice for a week. Following the trial, their stool samples were analyzed to check for any positive changes in their gut microbiome. The results showed that their blood glucose levels decreased by 24%, likely due to anthocyanins, a type of flavonoid found in elderberries. Christy Teets, a research assistant from Washington State University involved in the study, noted that this was the first human clinical trial to show that daily consumption of elderberry juice for one week significantly enhances gut microbial communities linked to health benefits.

A 2016 study published in the International Journal of Molecular Sciences also highlighted elderberry extract as potentially beneficial for diabetics. The research suggested that the extract helped reduce fasting blood sugar levels and insulin resistance in animals. However, it's important to note that the study was conducted on animals, not humans.

In the 2024 trial mentioned earlier, elderberry juice was found to enhance fat oxidation by 27%, alongside lowering blood sugar levels. After seven days of consuming elderberry juice, participants' bodies became more efficient at burning fat. While the exact mechanism behind this effect remains unclear, the results highlight the need for further research into elderberry juice's potential as a beneficial food for both diabetics and those trying to manage their weight.

Overall, research on elderberry juice's impact on blood sugar and weight management is still limited. However, there is stronger evidence supporting its reputation for alleviating cold and flu symptoms. For example, a 2015 study in the Journal of Functional Foods suggested that elderberry might reduce oxidative stress and boost the immune system, thanks to its high antioxidant content. Similarly, a 2023 study in Molecules reached a comparable conclusion, attributing the potential benefits to the anthocyanins in elderberries, which may act as both antivirals and immune system enhancers.

A 2020 review in Advances in Integrative Medicine found that taking elderberry preparations within two days of contracting a respiratory virus could reduce the duration of symptoms by half. In other words, it's best to start using elderberry juice at the first signs of illness, like a sneeze or sniffle. This finding supports the results of a 2004 clinical trial, published in the Journal of International Medical Research, which showed that elderberry syrup could shorten flu symptoms by up to four days.

By Naila Huseynova