Metabolic Status and Gender Affect the Absorption and Metabolism of Red Raspberry (Poly)phenols

Abstract Objectives Red raspberries are rich in bioactive (poly)phenols, particularly anthocyanins and ellagitannins. A substantial amount of variability is observed in the bioavailability and metabolism of (poly)phenols in humans. This study aimed to investigate the potential factors, i.e., metabolic status, body mass index (BMI), age, gender and race, on (poly)phenol metabolism in individuals with different health statuses. Methods After 3-day wash-in and overnight fasting, subjects (n = 65, male: female 32:33, age 34 ± 1 years, BMI 27 ± 1 kg/m2, mean ± SEM) consumed 250 g red raspberries (2 cups equivalence). Plasma samples collected over 24 h were quantified for (poly)phenolic metabolites using an ultra-high performance liquid chromatography coupled with triple quadrupole (UHPLC-QQQ). Statistical analysis was performed using PC-SAS. Results Individuals with prediabetes and insulin-resistance (n = 45) had significantly higher bioavailability of cyanidin sophoroside (0.21 ± 0.02% vs. 0.14 ± 0.03%, P = 0.04) and cyanidin 3-O-glucoside (0.12 ± 0.01% vs. 0.09 ± 0.01%, P = 0.02), and lower area under the 24 h curve (AUC0–24h) of hippuric acid glucuronide (435 ± 123 nmol/L × h vs. 1011 ± 184 nmol/L × h, P = 0.01) compared to healthy individuals (n = 20). Females (n = 33) had significantly lower bioavailability of cyanidin 3-O-glucoside (0.09 ± 0.01% vs. 0.13 ± 0.01%, P = 0.04) compared to males (n = 32). Correlation analysis on all subjects (n = 65) identified that bioavailability of cyanidin sophoroside and cyanidin 3-O-glucoside negatively correlated with fasting plasma triglyceride and positively correlated with HOMA-IR, HOMA-β, and fasting insulin concentration (P < 0.05). The AUC0–24h of hippuric acid glucuronide negatively correlated with fasting plasma glucose and triglyceride concentrations. Conclusions Individuals with different metabolic status and gender have different capacity to absorb and metabolize red raspberry (poly)phenols. The data provide insight for personalized nutrition for optimal health benefits and suggest further research on possible mechanisms involved. Funding Sources This project was funded by the National Processed Raspberry Council and various donor funds to the Center for Nutrition Research, Illinois Institute of Technology.