Underappreciated berry can boost metabolism and may help burn fat, according to new study

Looking to shed some pounds? You might want to consider adding elderberries to your diet.A new study led by researchers at Washington State University suggests these tiny, dark purple berries could be a powerful tool for revving up your metabolism and managing your weight.In a clinical trial published Thursday in Nutrients, researchers found that drinking 12 ounces of elderberry juice daily for just a week can improve gut health, regulate blood sugar, and help the body burn fat more effectively.Native to Europe, elderberries have long been used in supplements for their immune-boosting properties.While the fruit has been used for centuries as a folk remedy for treating cold and flu symptoms, its potential benefits for metabolism have largely flown under the radar — until now.“Elderberry is an underappreciated berry, commercially and nutritionally,” said Patrick Solverson, a study co-author who works as an assistant professor at WSU’s Department of Nutrition and Exercise Physiology.

“We’re now starting to recognize its value for human health, and the results are very exciting.”For the study, Solverson and his team recruited 18 overweight adults and divided them into two groups: one drank elderberry juice, while the other consumed a placebo with a similar color and taste.Both groups stuck to the same diet, but the elderberry group saw impressive results.After just one week, participants who drank elderberry juice showed a 24% drop in blood sugar levels after consuming carbs, indicating that it could help the body better regulate glucose.

Insulin levels also decreased by 9% on average.Elderberry juice seemed to ramp up fat-burning, too.The study found that participants burned more fat both while resting and during exercise after drinking the juice.

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