Cranberry extracts may improve gut health in 4 days

According to a new study published in the journal, consuming cranberry extract for just four days can lead to a significant increase in levels of beneficial gut bacteria while reducing harmful ones. npj Biofilms and microbiomes.

Cranberry extracts to combat the harmful effects of the Western diet

In their work, scientists from Laval University in Canada used a prebiotic called Prebiocran, which contains polyphenols and fibers found in cranberries. Twenty-eight volunteers took this prebiotic for four days. Before and during the intake, the scientists studied stool samples to analyze changes in the gut microbiome. Results: In just four days, the number of good gut bacteria increased significantly, while the level of bad bacteria decreased.

According to researchers, consuming cranberry extracts may help counteract the harmful effects of the Western diet. “This diet alters the microbiota, causes inflammation of the mucous membrane and disrupts the integrity of the intestinal barrier, which plays a critical role in protecting the body from bacteria present in the intestines.– points out Yves Desjardins, professor at Laval University. Alteration of the intestinal barrier allows the release of lipopolysaccharides (LPS) from the intestinal microbiota, called metabolic endotoxemia, and represents a critical factor in the onset and progression of inflammation and metabolic diseases. The persistent inflammation that results from the presence of LPS in the body can lead to a number of chronic diseases, including diabetes and cardiovascular disease.“

Higher levels of butyrate-producing bacteria

Another lesson from this study: Cranberry extract stimulates the production of butyrate, a short-chain fatty acid that has anti-inflammatory effects and helps maintain a healthy intestinal barrier. Higher levels of butyrate-producing bacteria are associated with a reduced risk of inflammatory bowel disease and some types of cancer.