Background

Anthocyanins are a subclass of flavonoids, which are a type of polyphenols and are often found in fruits, vegetables, tea, and wine. Anthocyanins have strong antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antiproliferative, and proapoptotic properties. Researchers investigated whether anthocyanins could reduce colorectal cancer risk.

The study

This meta-analysis included seven observational studies that investigated anthocyanin consumption and the development of colon cancer.

The results

There was a strong inverse association between anthocyanin consumption and colon cancer risk, suggesting that anthocyanins may have a protective effect. However, randomized controlled trials are needed to confirm this effect.

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This Study Summary was published on October 6, 2020.