Are Elderberry Gummies Good For You?
You've probably seen elderberry gummies in the vitamin aisle at your local grocery store. Elderberry has become an increasingly popular ingredient for its immune system benefits. But are the gummies really good for you? Let's break it down.
Elderberry is a dark purple fruit. This berry has been used for many years for its health benefits of strengthening the immune system and helping people fight off diseases. According to Medical News Today, there is not much scientific evidence on the effectiveness of elderberries to fight off colds and the flu. However, some studies suggest that taking this fruit may reduce the severity and length of a cold or the flu.
Elderberry has other health benefits in addition to aiding the immune system. It is high in vitamin A, and therefore can help reduce wrinkles and soothe the skin. Elderberries contain potassium, vitamin C, folate, calcium, and iron. They are also a great source of dietary fiber, containing 10.2 grams per cup.
Gummies are a safe way to enjoy the benefits of elderberry
Although these berries tout many health benefits, it can be difficult to access them. According to Verywell Health, raw elderberry plants contain a toxin called cyanogenic glycoside. This can cause diarrhea, vomiting, and trouble breathing. The safest way to consume elderberries is to boil fresh or dried berries in a mixture of water and sugar until a syrup is created. Strain the mixture and consume the syrup in moderation.
Because elderberries are safer to consume in syrup form, elderberry gummies may be one of the best options to get the benefits of this plant. According to Healthline, there are a few things to keep in mind when picking the best gummy. Make sure the dosage does not exceed 1,000 mg per serving, as this is the recommended amount to take per day. You should also avoid products that contain high amounts of sugar or sweeteners.
Healthline also recommends that you only buy supplements that have extract from black elderberry (also called Sambucus nigra) because this berry has been studied much more than other types.