Maqui (Aristotelia chilensis) is a berry native to Chile and Argentina, traditionally consumed as a food and for general health, but more recently studied for its potential metabolic benefits. Scientific interest in maqui stems from its exceptionally high content of anthocyanins, particularly delphinidins, which have been shown to possess antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. Several animal and small human studies suggest maqui berry extract may help improve markers associated with metabolic syndrome, such as blood glucose, lipid profiles, and inflammation. For example, a randomized, placebo-controlled clinical trial (Hidalgo et al., 2019) found that intake of standardized maqui berry extract led to significant reductions in fasting blood glucose in prediabetic individuals. Additional research in animals and in vitro has demonstrated improvements in insulin sensitivity and a decrease in markers of oxidative stress.

However, the overall quality and quantity of evidence is still limited, with most human studies being of short duration and involving relatively small sample sizes. There is a lack of large-scale, long-term clinical trials to robustly confirm efficacy for metabolic syndrome as a whole. Thus, while preliminary evidence supports potential benefits and provides a scientific rationale for use, the strength of evidence is moderate at best (rated 2/5). Further research is needed to establish clear recommendations for maqui in the prevention or treatment of metabolic syndrome.