Citrus Bergamot Fruit Extract
Also known as: Bergamot, Bergamot Orange, Citrus bergamia
Overview
Citrus bergamia, commonly known as Bergamot, is a citrus fruit primarily cultivated in southern Italy. It is particularly recognized for its essential oil and extracts rich in flavonoids such as naringin, neohesperidin, and neoeriocitrin. Traditionally, Bergamot has been used in various applications, including dietary supplements and aromatherapy, for its potential health benefits, particularly concerning cardiovascular health and inflammation. Research has begun to explore the fruit's flavonoid content, indicating promising effects on lipid profiles and general cardiorespiratory health. Despite a moderate level of research maturity, studies show favorable outcomes related to cholesterol and triglyceride levels, albeit limited by small sample sizes and methodological variability.
Benefits
Bergamot extract has been shown to effectively reduce total cholesterol by 12.3% to 31.3%, LDL cholesterol by 7.6% to 40.8%, and triglycerides by 11.5% to 39.5% in various studies. Additionally, it may assist in managing blood glucose levels and reducing inflammation. Individuals with statin intolerance could particularly benefit from Bergamot as an alternative for managing dyslipidemia. The clinical significance of these benefits varies across different studies, with many reporting statistically significant improvements within weeks to months of supplementation, although more extensive and standardized trials are needed to solidify these claims.
How it works
Bergamot acts primarily through its flavonoids, which influence lipid metabolism and exhibit antioxidant properties. These compounds help to modulate lipid profiles by interacting with enzymes involved in lipid metabolism, thereby potentially reducing inflammation. Enhanced absorption techniques, such as BPF phyto formulations, may improve the bioavailability of these beneficial flavonoids, ensuring they exert their effects more efficiently within the body.
Side effects
Bergamot is generally considered safe when used correctly, with most side effects being rare and typically associated with excessive intake or specific applications of essential oils. Common side effects are not well documented but may include mild gastrointestinal upset in rarer cases. There are concerns regarding excessive intake leading to potential vulnerabilities, like potassium channel blockade. Caution is advised for populations such as children, pregnant or lactating women, and older adults due to insufficient research regarding their safety. Additionally, individuals on medications should consult healthcare providers to avoid potential drug interactions.
Dosage
The minimum effective dose of Citrus bergamia is usually around 150 mg of standardized flavonoids per day, with optimal dosage ranging from 500 mg to 1,200 mg based on the formulation and individual response. There is no clearly established maximum safe dose; thus, avoiding excessive intake is recommended. Timing is flexible, with consistent daily intake advised. Bergamot supplements are available in various forms, including capsules and powders, allowing users to choose based on personal preference. Enhanced bioavailability formulations may further improve efficacy.
FAQs
Is Bergamot safe to take with other medications?
Bergamot is generally safe but consult a healthcare provider to prevent potential drug interactions.
What is the best time to take Bergamot?
There are no specific timing recommendations, but consistent daily intake is advised for optimal results.
How long does it take to see benefits from Bergamot?
Benefits like improvements in lipid profiles are typically observed within weeks to months of supplementation.
Can Bergamot replace prescribed medications?
Bergamot is not a replacement for medical treatment; always consult your healthcare provider before making changes.
Are there any side effects of using Bergamot?
While generally safe, excessive intake may lead to rare adverse effects, including gastrointestinal issues.
Research Sources
- https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/pharmacology/articles/10.3389/fphar.2022.822678/full – This study highlights the impact of Bergamot on lipid profiles, showing significant reductions in total cholesterol and triglycerides, although variations in study designs limit generalizability.
- https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/bergamot-supplement-benefits – An overview of the health benefits associated with Bergamot, emphasizing cardiovascular improvements and potential anti-inflammatory effects, while noting the need for more comprehensive research.
- https://www.mdpi.com/2304-8158/13/23/3883 – Discusses the beneficial effects of Bergamot extracts such as reductions in cholesterol levels and inflammation, stressing the importance of further studies to validate preliminary findings.
- https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31670973/ – A systematic review providing meta-analytical insights into how Bergamot affects lipid metabolism, indicating promising but heterogeneous outcomes across studies.
- https://zaguan.unizar.es/record/88448/files/texto_completo.pdf – A detailed examination of Bergamot's role in cardiovascular health, exploring its flavonoid content and mechanism of action, while calling for more large-scale clinical trials.
