If you are thinking about adding aronia berries to your routine, it makes sense to ask about side effects first. The short answer: aronia is a food, and for most people it is simply a tart fruit. There are a few practical points worth knowing, which we cover below.
Aronia is a food, not a supplement
Aronia berries (Aronia melanocarpa) have been eaten in Eastern Europe for generations and are sold today as juice, powder and dried berries. Our products are simply pressed, dried or ground fruit with nothing added. They are not extracts, capsules or concentrated supplements, and we do not sell them to treat or prevent any health condition.
Dry mouth and stomach sensitivity
Aronia berries contain natural tannins, the compounds behind their dry, mouth-puckering taste. Some people, especially those not used to tart berries, notice a dry mouth, a tight feeling in the stomach or loose stools when they start with a large amount on an empty stomach. This is not unique to aronia; strong black tea and unsweetened cranberry juice can do the same.
What helps: start with a small serving, such as 50 ml of juice or half a tablespoon of powder, and have it with or after a meal. Dilute juice with water or sparkling water if you find it too strong.
If you take medication
If you take prescription medication, including medication for blood pressure, blood sugar or blood thinning, talk to your doctor or pharmacist before adding any new food product to your daily routine in larger amounts. This applies to aronia just as it does to grapefruit, leafy greens or herbal teas. Never stop or change a medication because of a food.
Kidney stones and special diets
If your doctor or dietitian has put you on a special diet, for example a low-oxalate diet because of kidney stones, check with them before making aronia a daily habit. The same applies to any other diet prescribed for a medical reason.
Pregnancy and breastfeeding
Aronia berries are eaten as an ordinary food, but there is little specific research on aronia during pregnancy or breastfeeding. Ask your healthcare provider if you have questions.
Allergies
Allergic reactions to aronia are uncommon. Aronia belongs to the rose family (Rosaceae), which also includes apples, pears, cherries and plums. If you react to fruits from this family, ask your doctor. Stop eating it and get medical help if you notice itching, swelling or difficulty breathing.
Suggested servings
| Product | Suggested serving | How to enjoy it |
|---|---|---|
| Aronia juice | 50–100 ml | Straight, with water or sparkling water, or in a smoothie |
| Aronia powder | 1 tablespoon (about 10 g) | In smoothies, yogourt, oatmeal or baking |
| Dried aronia berries | 2 tablespoons (about 20 g) | As a snack, in muesli or trail mix |
These are serving suggestions for a tart food, not doses. Start at the lower end and see how you like it.
Summary
For most people, aronia is a tart fruit that can be part of a normal diet. Start small, enjoy it with food, and talk to your doctor or pharmacist if you take medication, follow a medically prescribed diet, are pregnant or breastfeeding, or have fruit allergies. For an overview of the berry itself, read our complete guide to aronia berries or find easy ways to add aronia to your diet.
This article is general information and not medical advice.
