Glass a day of common fruit juice slashes fat and helps control weight
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Scientists have made a juicy discovery that could be a game-changer for those battling the bulge. Elderberries, the small dark purple fruit from elder trees found across Europe, are not just immune-boosting supplements loaded with antioxidants and vitamins; they might also be a secret weapon in weight management.
A team led by Washington State University has uncovered that elderberry juice can significantly improve gut health and aid in glucose tolerance and fat burning. The findings, published in the journal Nutrients, show that drinking 12 ounces of this berry juice daily for one week can lead to beneficial changes in the gut microbiome.
"Elderberry is an underappreciated berry, commercially and nutritionally," said Patrick Solverson, assistant professor at WSU's Elson S. Floyd College of Medicine and lead author of the study. "We're now starting to recognise its value for human health, and the results are very exciting.".
In a trial involving 18 overweight individuals, participants were given either elderberry juice or a placebo concoction that mimicked the real deal in colour and taste, crafted by North Carolina State University's Food Innovation Lab. All while sticking to a controlled diet, reports Surrey Live.
The findings showed that those who drank the juice had considerably more good gut bacteria and less harmful ones, which is crucial for absorbing nutrients and overall well-being; plus, their body's ability to regulate sugar improved, with a 24% reduction in blood glucose levels and a 9% drop in insulin after consuming carbohydrates.
