The Impact of Black Chokeberry (Aronia melanocarpa) on Gut Microbiota and Human Health: Systematic Review and Meta-analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials in Humans

Abstract

Background: Aronia melanocarpa, commonly known as chokeberry, is a fruit experiencing increasing cultivation and recognition due to its health-promoting properties. Its primary bioactive components are (poly)phenols, which are recognized for their crucial role in modulating the intestinal microbiota and exerting beneficial effects on human health.

Aims: This study aimed to systematically synthesize and critically evaluate the findings of randomized clinical trials investigating the impact of Aronia melanocarpa consumption on the modulation of gut microbiota composition and its metabolism-mediated physiological consequences in human subjects. 

Methods: Randomized controlled trials published in English were considered for inclusion. Comprehensive searches were conducted across the Cochrane Library, Scopus, PubMed/MEDLINE, and Web of Science databases up to October 20, 2024. A systematic evaluation of gut microbiota parameters was performed. For secondary metabolite levels, biochemical markers, and cardiovascular risk parameters, a meta-analysis utilizing a mean effect model was conducted.

Results: Four articles, collectively involving 200 participants, met the inclusion criteria for this systematic review. Of these, three articles were subsequently incorporated into the meta-analysis. Consumption of Aronia melanocarpa intervention periods ranging from 4 to12 weeks did not yield significant differences in the α-diversity or β-diversity of the gut microbiota. However, increased levels of specific bacterial genera and species, including Intestinimonas butyriciproducens, Lawsonibacter asaccharolyticus, Bacteroides xylanisolvens, Bacteroides, Anaerostipes, Butyricimonas faecihominis, were observed in individuals consuming aronia capsules for 12 weeks. Furthermore, Aronia melanocarpa consumption significantly increased non-flavonoid polyphenol stilbenes by a mean difference of 0.11 (95% CI:  0.03, 0.20, p = 0.010) compared to control groups. No significant differences were detected in vascular function or fasting plasma glucose levels.

Conclusions: The included studies indicate that Aronia melanocarpa exerts positive effects on the gut microbiota. Notably, interventions involving Aronia melanocarpa consumption for 12 weeks and those with high polyphenol content appeared to be more effective in modulating the microbiota. However, no statistically significant beneficial impact on broader health parameters was identified in this meta-analysis. This outcome is likely attributable to variations in dosage, product type, intervention durations, participant characteristics, and the specific final measurements employed across the included studies.

Keywords: Aronia melanocarpa; Gut function; Gut symptoms; Meta-analysis; Microbiota; Systematic review.