Mulberries may support gut health

Mulberries have been eaten for centuries in different parts of the world and have also been used in traditional medicine.

Now, new research suggests that these fruits may help support a healthy gut. The findings come from a study conducted in Poland by researchers at Wroclaw Medical University.

The researchers examined how compounds found in mulberries may affect gut bacteria and metabolism.

How may mulberries help?

The gut contains billions of bacteria that play an important role in digestion and other body functions.  These bacteria can also influence metabolism throughout the body.

Mulberries contain several natural compounds including polyphenols which may interact with gut bacteria.

Researchers studied compounds found in both mulberry fruits and leaves. They found that these compounds could change the mix and activity of bacteria in the gut.

The changes may encourage gut bacteria to produce certain fatty acids that are linked to healthy metabolism. The compounds may also support better gut function.

What did the animal study show?

In experiments on mice, researchers first gave the animals a high fat diet and then provided compounds from mulberries.

The treatment was linked to noticeable changes in the animals’ gut bacteria. These changes were associated with improved gut health and a lower risk of metabolic problems. However the researchers stressed that these findings should be interpreted carefully.

More research is needed

The study was conducted on animals not humans. This means it is not yet clear whether eating mulberries would produce the same effects in people.

Researchers said the early results are encouraging but further studies especially human trials are needed to better understand the potential health benefits of mulberries.