Interindividual differences in the tolerability of aronia juice are associated with changes in the gut microbiome

Aronia melanocarpa is a berry containing high concentrations of polyphenols commonly associated with beneficial health effects. However, the bioavailability of these phytonutrients has been questioned and the individual acceptance of the fruit with its specific flavor varies from person to person. Additionally, great differences in the tolerability of aronia juice have been observed. We aimed to identify a potential mechanistic contribution of the gut microbiome on the tolerability and the metabolic outcome of aronia juice in a six weeks clinical interventional trial followed by a six weeks washout phase.