Beneficial Effects of Berry Fruits on Autoimmune Diseases

The prevalence of autoimmune diseases in developed societies suggests the use of natural products for prevention and treatment. At the beginning of preventive approaches, the idea of regularly consuming herbal products that can have positive effects on autoimmune diseases and making them a part of the diet is common. Beneficial phytochemicals can be reached by consuming these herbal products directly and/or the products obtained from them. In addition, numerous studies have demonstrated that berries offer the potential to protect against autoimmune diseases if they are consumed regularly with their phytochemicals, especially phenols, anthocyanins, vitamins, and specific minor components. There are also studies on the effects of these phytochemicals on autoimmune diseases. It is stated that the regular consumption of berry fruits increases the quality of life, and the protective effect it provides is much easier and less costly than the treatment of autoimmune diseases. This chapter is aimed at revealing the potential of berry fruits to protect from autoimmune diseases, reduce the negative effects of the disease, and/or support treatment. Although studies on the beneficial effects of berries have increased in recent years, they are still behind other fruits.