The Phenolic Compounds in Berries: Beneficial Effects on Human Health

The phenolic compounds in fruits are secondary plant metabolites and are mainly associated with the nutritional as well as the sensorial properties of fruits. These compounds not only affect the aroma of the fruits, but are also found to have profound effects on human health due to their antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial effects. Berry fruits, including blueberry, cranberry, raspberry and strawberry, are good sources of a wide variety of phenolics. The major phenolic compounds in berries include: flavonoids, phenolic acids, tannins, stilbenes and lignans. Studies upon the effects of these phytochemicals have revealed that these compounds are important antioxidants. Furthermore, the increased consumption of berries that are naturally rich in phenolic compounds is found to be associated with the prevention of cardiovascular diseases, diabetes, cancer, and obesity. In nature, the phenolic compounds found in plant tissues protect the plants against bacterial and fungal infections, UV radiation, physical damage, etc. Based on this knowledge, the beneficiary effects of the phenolic compounds are nowadays being investigated with respect to the increased consumers’ concern towards healthy and natural type of nutrition. This review summarizes, the major phenolic compounds found in berry fruits and their beneficial effects on human health.