The effect of anthocyanins supplementation on liver enzymes: A systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized clinical trials

This systematic review and meta-analysis aimed to assess effect of consuming anthocyanins (ACNs; pure ACNs or products containing ACNs) on liver enzymes levels including alanine aminotransferase (ALT), aspartate aminotransferase (AST), and gamma-glutamyl transferase (GGT). Although no significant impact was detected on the liver enzymes, a significant reduction was observed on ALT (WMD = -4.932 U/L, 95% CI = -9.848 to -0.015, p = .049) and AST (WMD = -3.464 U/L, 95% CI = -6.034 to -0.894, p = .008) in the studies that examined them as primary outcomes. A significant decrease was found on AST among the healthy subjects (WMD = -4.325 U/L, 95% CI = -8.516 to -0.134, p = .043) and in the studies that used products containing ACNs as intervention (WMD = -2.201 U/L, 95% CI = -4.275 to -0.127, p = .037). Although no significant relation was detected between ACNs dosage and the liver enzymes, significant associations were found between the duration of trial with ALT (ALT: slope: 0.09, 95% CI = 0.040 to 0.139, p = .0003) and AST (slope: 0.076, 95% CI = 0.037 to 0.115, p = .0001). In conclusion, although ACNs had no significant effect on the liver enzymes, a significant decrease was discovered on ALT and AST in the studies that evaluated them as primary outcomes. A significant reduction was observed in AST in the healthy individuals and in the studies used products containing ACNs as intervention. Significant relations were also found between the duration of trial with ALT and AST. Further studies are required to confirm these results.

Automated summary

While anthocyanins (ACNs) did not have a significant effect on liver enzymes overall, a significant decrease was observed in ALT and AST in studies where they were evaluated as primary outcomes. Significant reductions in AST were found in healthy individuals and studies using products containing ACNs as intervention. Significant associations were also found between the duration of trial and ALT and AST levels. Further research is needed to confirm these findings.