Functional Longevity

Anthocyanins Benefits: Flavonoids, DNA Repair & Vascular Health

Anthocyanins Benefits: Flavonoids, DNA Repair & Vascular Health

💡 What You Need to Know Right Away

  • Cardiovascular protection: Anthocyanins significantly reduce LDL cholesterol and triglycerides while increasing HDL cholesterol, lowering cardiovascular disease risk.[Evidence: A][1]
  • Brain health improvements: Clinical trials show improvements in short-term memory, verbal learning, working memory, executive function, and attention.[Evidence: A][3]
  • Anti-inflammatory effects: Meta-analysis of 32 RCTs found significant decreases in CRP, IL-6, and TNF-α inflammatory markers, with doses above 300 mg/day showing greatest reductions.[Evidence: A][4]
  • Blood sugar control: Research demonstrates reductions in fasting blood sugar (-2.70 mg/dL), postprandial glucose (-11.1 mg/dL), and insulin resistance (HOMA-IR -0.54).[Evidence: A][5]

Anthocyanins are the vibrant pigments that give berries, red grapes, and purple vegetables their rich colors. Beyond their visual appeal, these powerful plant compounds have captured the attention of researchers worldwide for their remarkable health-promoting properties.

It is common to feel overwhelmed when navigating supplement research. This guide synthesizes findings from 16 peer-reviewed studies, including 10 meta-analyses, to provide clear, evidence-based guidance on anthocyanin benefits, optimal dosages, and important safety considerations. Whether you are exploring dietary sources or considering supplementation, understanding the science helps you make informed decisions for your health.

❓ Quick Answers

What are anthocyanins?

Anthocyanins are water-soluble pigments belonging to the flavonoid family of polyphenols. They create the red, purple, and blue colors in plants like berries, grapes, and purple vegetables. These antioxidant compounds are primarily studied for cardiovascular health, brain function, and inflammation reduction.[Evidence: A][2]

How do anthocyanins work in the body?

Anthocyanins work through multiple mechanisms: neutralizing free radicals as antioxidants, inhibiting inflammatory pathways like NF-κB, and activating cellular defense systems. Despite relatively low direct bioavailability, their metabolites persist in the body and provide extended benefits through enterohepatic recycling.[Evidence: A][8]

What foods are highest in anthocyanins?

The richest food sources include elderberries (approximately 1,800 mg per 100g), aronia berries (around 1,400 mg per 100g), blackcurrants (approximately 700 mg per 100g), and blueberries (around 400 mg per 100g). Purple vegetables like red cabbage, eggplant, and black rice also contain significant amounts.[Evidence: A][2]

What are anthocyanins good for?

Research supports anthocyanin benefits for cardiovascular health (improved cholesterol profiles), cognitive function (memory and attention), blood sugar regulation, and reducing inflammation. Meta-analyses confirm significant improvements in LDL cholesterol, HDL cholesterol, triglycerides, and inflammatory markers.[Evidence: A][1][6]

How much anthocyanins should I take?

Clinical studies have used doses ranging from 100 mg to 320 mg daily. For anti-inflammatory effects, research suggests doses above 300 mg/day produce the most significant reductions in inflammatory markers. A 320 mg daily dose for 28 days showed antiplatelet benefits in healthy adults.[Evidence: A][4][Evidence: B][9]

Are anthocyanins safe to take?

Anthocyanins from food sources are considered very safe. Supplementation up to 320 mg daily for 28 days has been studied without significant adverse effects. However, due to demonstrated antiplatelet activity, individuals on blood thinners should consult their healthcare provider before supplementing.[Evidence: B][9]

What is the difference between anthocyanins and flavonoids?

Flavonoids are a large class of plant compounds with over 6,000 identified types. Anthocyanins are a specific subclass of flavonoids responsible for red, purple, and blue pigmentation. All anthocyanins are flavonoids, but not all flavonoids are anthocyanins. Other flavonoid subclasses include flavonols, flavones, and catechins.[Evidence: A][2]

Do anthocyanins lower blood pressure?

Current meta-analysis evidence shows anthocyanins do not significantly reduce blood pressure. A 2025 meta-analysis of 29 RCTs found systolic blood pressure changes of only -0.12 mmHg (95% CI: -1.06 to 0.82, p = 0.801), which is not statistically or clinically significant. Benefits are more established for cholesterol and inflammation.[Evidence: A][6]

Bio-Active Compound

Anthocyanin Benefits

Discover the biological power of nature's deep pigments. Anthocyanins are more than just colors; they are potent flavonoids that shield your body from oxidative stress.

🔬 How Do Anthocyanins Work?

Understanding how anthocyanins work helps explain their wide-ranging health benefits. Think of anthocyanins as master switches that can turn on your body's protective systems while turning off harmful inflammatory pathways. This metaphor captures their dual action as both defenders and regulators.

Antioxidant Protection

Anthocyanins neutralize harmful molecules called free radicals that damage cells through oxidative stress. Like a security team patrolling your cells, anthocyanins intercept these damaging molecules before they can cause harm. This antioxidant capacity is fundamental to their protective effects against age-related diseases.[Evidence: A][2]

Anti-Inflammatory Pathways

Anthocyanins inhibit the NF-κB inflammatory signaling pathway, one of the body's central controllers of inflammation. They also modulate toll-like receptors, MAPKs, nitric oxide production, and reactive oxygen species. This multi-target approach explains their effectiveness against inflammation-related conditions including obesity, diabetes, and cardiovascular disease.[Evidence: B][12]

Metabolic Regulation

The anthocyanin cyanidin-3-O-glucoside (C3G) directly binds to PPARs, which are master regulators of energy metabolism. This binding improves insulin sensitivity, enhances glucose uptake in cells, and reduces triglycerides. Animal studies show C3G alleviates insulin resistance through improved hepatocyte (liver cell) function.[Evidence: B][13][11]

Bioavailability and Metabolites

While direct anthocyanin absorption is relatively low, research challenges the assumption of "notoriously poor bioavailability." Anthocyanins undergo enterohepatic recycling, meaning they circulate between the liver and intestines multiple times. Their metabolites, including protocatechuic acid and other phenolic compounds, persist in the body and provide extended benefits over 12-24 hours.[Evidence: A][8]

Cognitive Mechanisms

Anthocyanins and their metabolites can cross the blood-brain barrier, enabling direct neuroprotective effects. Clinical trials demonstrate improvements across multiple cognitive domains: short-term memory, verbal learning, working memory, executive function, visual-spatial function, and attention. These effects are observed in both cognitively impaired and healthy adults.[Evidence: A][3]

Glucose Metabolism

Meta-analysis of randomized clinical trials confirms anthocyanins significantly improve biomarkers of glycemic control. Specific findings include reductions in fasting blood sugar (-2.70 mg/dL), 2-hour postprandial glucose (-11.1 mg/dL), glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c), and HOMA-IR insulin resistance index (-0.54).[Evidence: A][5]

📊 Dosage and How to Use

Establishing optimal anthocyanin dosage requires examining doses used in clinical research. The following table summarizes evidence-based dosing from peer-reviewed studies.

Purpose/Condition Dosage Duration Evidence
Inflammation reduction (systemic/vascular) >300 mg/day Variable (study dependent) [A][4]
Antiplatelet/thrombotic risk reduction 320 mg/day 28 days [B][9]
Glycemic control improvement Variable (study dependent) Variable [A][5]
Metabolic syndrome risk factors Variable across 29 RCTs Variable [A][6]

Key Dosage Insights

  • Anti-inflammatory benefits: Meta-analysis of 32 RCTs found that doses exceeding 300 mg/day produced the most significant reductions in C-reactive protein, interleukin-6, and TNF-α.[Evidence: A][4]
  • Cardiovascular/antiplatelet: A specific study used 320 mg daily for 28 days, demonstrating significant reduction in platelet aggregation.[Evidence: B][9]
  • No established upper limit: No official upper intake level has been established for anthocyanins. Doses up to 320 mg daily have been studied safely.

Timing Considerations

Take anthocyanin supplements with meals to enhance absorption. Consistency matters more than specific timing. Given the 12-24 hour activity window of anthocyanin metabolites, daily consumption maintains steady benefits.[Evidence: A][8]

⚠️ Risks, Side Effects, and Warnings

General Safety Profile

Anthocyanins from dietary sources are considered very safe for most people. Clinical studies report minimal adverse effects. However, supplementation requires more caution, particularly for individuals on certain medications.

Side Effects

Most intervention studies report no significant adverse effects from anthocyanin supplementation. Specific side effect frequency data from the reviewed sources is limited. Minor gastrointestinal discomfort may occur with high doses. If you experience adverse reactions, discontinue use and consult your healthcare provider.

Drug Interactions

Contraindications

  • Absolute: Avoid if allergic to anthocyanin sources (berries, grapes).
  • Relative: Use caution with concurrent anticoagulant therapy due to demonstrated antiplatelet activity.[Evidence: B][9]

Special Populations

  • Pregnancy and Lactation: Limited safety data exists for supplements during pregnancy. Whole food sources (berries, fruits) are considered safe. High-dose supplements should be avoided without medical supervision due to insufficient safety data.
  • Children: No clinical trials in pediatric populations. Whole fruit sources are appropriate. Supplement use not recommended without medical guidance.
  • Elderly: No specific contraindications. Antiplatelet effect requires monitoring if on anticoagulants.

Monitoring Recommendations

If supplementing while on blood thinners or diabetes medications: monitor for signs of bleeding (easy bruising, prolonged bleeding from cuts) and check blood glucose regularly. Consult your healthcare provider regularly when combining supplements with medications.

🥗 Practical Ways to Use Anthocyanins

How to Use This in Your Daily Life

Scenario 1: Inflammation Reduction

  • Dose: >300 mg daily[4]
  • Duration: Ongoing (studies varied)
  • Population: Adults with elevated inflammatory markers
  • Timing: With meals for optimal absorption
  • What to track: CRP, IL-6, TNF-α levels if available through your healthcare provider
  • Expected results: Significant decreases in inflammatory markers[4]

Scenario 2: Cardiovascular Support

  • Dose: 320 mg daily[9]
  • Duration: 28 days studied
  • Population: Healthy adults
  • Timing: With meals
  • What to track: Lipid panel (LDL, HDL, triglycerides)
  • Expected results: Improved cholesterol profile, reduced platelet aggregation[1][9]

Practical Integration

Take supplements with meals to support absorption. Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Anthocyanin metabolites provide extended 12-24 hour benefits through enterohepatic recycling, so daily consistency is more important than specific timing.[Evidence: A][8]

Food-First Approach

Consider dietary sources first: berries (blueberries, blackberries, elderberries), purple grapes, red cabbage, eggplant, and black rice all provide anthocyanins along with other beneficial compounds. Eating produce at peak ripeness maximizes anthocyanin content.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • Inconsistent dosing: Studies used daily dosing[9]. Sporadic use may not achieve documented benefits.
  • Ignoring food sources: Whole foods provide anthocyanins with synergistic compounds that may enhance absorption and effects.
  • Expecting immediate results: Benefits develop over weeks of consistent use. The 28-day antiplatelet study[9] demonstrated this timeline.

⚖️ Anthocyanins vs. Other Flavonoids

Understanding how anthocyanins compare to other flavonoid subclasses helps clarify their unique benefits and where they fit in a comprehensive nutrition strategy.

Feature Anthocyanins Other Flavonoids (Catechins, Quercetin)
Primary Sources Berries, grapes, purple vegetables Green tea, onions, apples, citrus
Visual Identification Red, purple, blue colors Generally colorless or yellow
Cardiovascular Evidence Meta-analyses show improved LDL, HDL, triglycerides[1][14] Varied evidence by compound
Cognitive Benefits Strong evidence: memory, attention, executive function[3] Some evidence for specific compounds
Anti-inflammatory 32 RCTs: significant CRP, IL-6, TNF-α reduction[4] Varied evidence by compound
Blood Pressure No significant effect in meta-analyses[6] Some compounds show modest effects
Bioavailability Low direct absorption; metabolites extend activity[8] Varies widely by compound

Key Differentiators

Anthocyanins stand out for their exceptionally strong evidence base in cognitive function, with a 2025 meta-analysis examining 30 RCTs demonstrating improvements across multiple cognitive domains.[Evidence: A][3] Their unique antiplatelet activity (320 mg daily reducing platelet aggregation)[Evidence: B][9] distinguishes them from many other flavonoids.

Unlike some flavonoids that show blood pressure benefits, current meta-analysis evidence indicates anthocyanins do not significantly lower blood pressure. This honest assessment helps set realistic expectations.[Evidence: A][6]

What The Evidence Shows (And Doesn't Show)

What Research Suggests

  • Cardiovascular lipid improvements: Meta-analyses of 44 RCTs and 15 cohort studies confirm anthocyanins significantly reduce LDL cholesterol and triglycerides while increasing HDL cholesterol.[Evidence: A][1]
  • Cognitive function enhancement: Analysis of 30 RCTs (733 participants in quantitative synthesis) demonstrates improvements in memory, attention, and executive function in both healthy and cognitively impaired adults.[Evidence: A][3]
  • Anti-inflammatory effects: 32 RCTs confirm significant decreases in CRP, IL-6, and TNF-α inflammatory markers, with doses >300 mg/day showing greatest effect.[Evidence: A][4]
  • Glycemic control: Significant reductions in fasting blood sugar (-2.70 mg/dL), postprandial glucose (-11.1 mg/dL), and insulin resistance (HOMA-IR -0.54).[Evidence: A][5]
  • Antiplatelet activity: 320 mg daily for 28 days significantly reduces platelet aggregation and mean platelet volume.[Evidence: B][9]

What's NOT Yet Proven

  • Blood pressure reduction: Despite inclusion in cardiovascular studies, meta-analysis shows no significant effect (SBP change: -0.12 mmHg, p = 0.801).[6]
  • Optimal dosage not established: Studies used varying doses from approximately 100-320 mg. No standardized therapeutic dose has been determined.
  • Long-term safety beyond 28 days: The longest supplementation study in our review was 28 days. Extended safety data is limited.
  • Cancer prevention in humans: Evidence is primarily from in vitro and animal studies. Human clinical trials for cancer prevention are lacking.[15][16]
  • Special populations: No 2015+ RCTs in children, limited pregnancy data, insufficient data for severe renal or hepatic impairment.

Where Caution Is Needed

  • Anticoagulant interactions: Demonstrated antiplatelet activity creates potential additive bleeding risk with blood thinners. Consult physician before combining.[9]
  • Diabetes medication interactions: Blood glucose-lowering effects may require monitoring and potential medication adjustment.[5]
  • Surgery considerations: Antiplatelet effect suggests discontinuing supplements 1-2 weeks before scheduled procedures.
  • Supplement quality variation: No FDA standardization exists. Look for third-party testing and standardized anthocyanin content.

Should YOU Try This?

Best suited for: Adults seeking cardiovascular support (cholesterol improvement), cognitive maintenance, or anti-inflammatory benefits. Those with elevated inflammatory markers or blood sugar concerns may particularly benefit based on current evidence.

Not recommended for: Individuals on anticoagulants without medical supervision, those with bleeding disorders, pregnant or breastfeeding women (for supplements, not food sources), children (for supplements).

Realistic timeline: Expect 4-8 weeks of consistent daily use to evaluate benefits based on available study durations.[9]

When to consult a professional: Before starting supplementation if you take blood thinners, diabetes medications, have bleeding disorders, are pregnant/breastfeeding, or have scheduled surgery.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can you take too much anthocyanins?

No official upper intake level has been established for anthocyanins. Studies have safely used doses up to 320 mg daily for 28 days without significant adverse effects. However, the demonstrated antiplatelet activity suggests that very high doses could potentially increase bleeding risk, especially in individuals on blood thinners. From food sources, excessive intake is unlikely due to the large quantities required. For supplements, following product guidelines and not exceeding studied doses (around 300-320 mg daily) is prudent until more long-term safety data becomes available.

Are anthocyanins good for your brain?

Yes, strong evidence supports cognitive benefits. A 2025 meta-analysis examined 30 randomized clinical trials (14 included in quantitative analysis with 733 participants) and found improvements in short-term memory, verbal learning, working memory, executive function, visual-spatial function, and attention. These benefits were observed in both cognitively impaired and healthy adults. Anthocyanins and their metabolites can cross the blood-brain barrier, enabling direct neuroprotective effects. Berries like blueberries have been particularly studied for cognitive benefits.

What are the side effects of anthocyanins?

Anthocyanins from food and supplements are generally well-tolerated. Most clinical trials report no significant adverse effects. The primary concern is the antiplatelet effect, which caused significant reduction in ADP-stimulated platelet aggregation and mean platelet volume at 320 mg daily. This could theoretically increase bleeding risk, especially with anticoagulant medications. Minor gastrointestinal discomfort may occur in some individuals. Systematic reviews of safety data across multiple trials indicate a favorable safety profile for typical supplementation durations.

When should I take anthocyanin supplements?

Take anthocyanin supplements with meals to support absorption. Research on bioavailability shows that anthocyanins undergo enterohepatic recycling, with metabolites providing extended activity over 12-24 hours. This means consistency matters more than specific timing. Daily consumption maintains steady levels of active metabolites. The 28-day study showing antiplatelet benefits used once-daily dosing of 320 mg. Morning or evening timing can be based on personal preference and digestive comfort.

Are anthocyanins safe during pregnancy?

Limited safety data exists specifically for anthocyanin supplements during pregnancy. Whole food sources (berries, grapes, purple vegetables) are considered safe and provide anthocyanins naturally as part of a healthy diet. However, high-dose supplements lack sufficient pregnancy-specific safety studies. The antiplatelet effect raises theoretical concerns near delivery. Pregnant women should prioritize anthocyanin-rich foods over supplements and consult their healthcare provider before taking any supplemental forms.

What is the daily recommended intake of anthocyanins?

No official recommended daily intake has been established for anthocyanins. Research-based dosing shows that doses above 300 mg/day produced the most significant anti-inflammatory effects in a meta-analysis of 32 RCTs. Average dietary intake varies significantly by region: US intake averages around 12.5 mg/day, while European intake averages approximately 64.9 mg/day. For therapeutic benefits matching clinical trial outcomes, supplementation in the 300-320 mg/day range has been studied, though optimal long-term dosing requires further research.

Do anthocyanins help with weight loss?

A meta-analysis of 11 randomized controlled trials found that anthocyanin supplementation significantly reduced BMI. However, effects on body weight and waist circumference were less conclusive. Anthocyanins appear to influence metabolic factors through PPAR activation and improved insulin sensitivity , which may contribute to metabolic health improvements. They should be viewed as one component of a comprehensive weight management approach rather than a standalone weight loss solution.

Can anthocyanins prevent cancer?

In vitro research suggests anticancer potential. A systematic review found anthocyanins can inhibit cancer cell viability and proliferation, control cell cycle progression, and promote apoptosis (programmed cell death) in laboratory studies. Research specifically on colorectal cancer shows anthocyanin-rich products may reduce development through antioxidative, anti-inflammatory, and anti-proliferative mechanisms. However, these are primarily cell and animal studies. Human clinical trials demonstrating cancer prevention are limited, and anthocyanins should not be considered a cancer treatment.

Are anthocyanins anti-inflammatory?

Yes, strong evidence supports anti-inflammatory effects. A meta-analysis of 32 randomized clinical trials found dietary anthocyanins significantly decreased three key inflammatory markers: C-reactive protein (CRP), interleukin-6 (IL-6), and tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α). Higher doses (above 300 mg/day) produced the most significant reductions. Mechanistically, anthocyanins inhibit the NF-κB inflammatory signaling pathway and modulate toll-like receptors, MAPKs, nitric oxide, and reactive oxygen species.

How long does it take for anthocyanins to work?

Timeline varies by outcome measured. The antiplatelet study demonstrated significant effects after 28 days of supplementation at 320 mg daily. Cognitive benefits in clinical trials were observed across study durations varying from weeks to months. Given that anthocyanin metabolites provide extended 12-24 hour activity through enterohepatic recycling , consistent daily intake builds cumulative effects. Expect several weeks of consistent use before evaluating benefits. Individual response varies based on baseline health status and adherence.

Our Accuracy Commitment and Editorial Principles

At Biochron, we take health information seriously. Every claim in this article is supported by peer-reviewed scientific evidence from reputable sources published in 2015 or later. We use a rigorous evidence-grading system to help you understand the strength of research behind each statement:


  • [Evidence: A] = Systematic review or meta-analysis (strongest evidence)
  • [Evidence: B] = Randomized controlled trial (RCT)
  • [Evidence: C] = Cohort or case-control study
  • [Evidence: D] = Expert opinion or clinical guideline

Our editorial team follows strict guidelines: we never exaggerate health claims, we clearly distinguish between correlation and causation, we update content regularly as new research emerges, and we transparently note when evidence is limited or conflicting. For our complete editorial standards, visit our Editorial Principles page.


This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals before making changes to your health regimen, especially if you have medical conditions or take medications.

References

  1. 1 . Anthocyanins, Anthocyanin-Rich Berries, and Cardiovascular Risks: Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of 44 Randomized Controlled Trials and 15 Prospective Cohort Studies, Frontiers in nutrition, 2021, PubMed [Evidence: A]
  2. 2 . The health benefits of anthocyanins: an umbrella review of systematic reviews and meta-analyses of observational studies and controlled clinical trials, Nutrition reviews, 2022, PubMed [Evidence: A]
  3. 3 . The Effect of Anthocyanins on Cognition: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis of Randomized Clinical Trial Studies in Cognitively Impaired and Healthy Adults, Current nutrition reports, 2025, PubMed [Evidence: A]
  4. 4 . Impact of dietary anthocyanins on systemic and vascular inflammation: Systematic review and meta-analysis on randomised clinical trials, Food and chemical toxicology, 2020, PubMed [Evidence: A]
  5. 5 . Effect of dietary anthocyanins on biomarkers of glycemic control and glucose metabolism: A systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized clinical trials, Food research international, 2020, PubMed [Evidence: A]
  6. 6 . Effect of dietary anthocyanins on the risk factors related to metabolic syndrome: A systematic review and meta-analysis, PloS one, 2025, PubMed [Evidence: A]
  7. 7 . Effects of Anthocyanin Supplementation on Reduction of Obesity Criteria: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials, Nutrients, 2021, PubMed [Evidence: A]
  8. 8 . Unraveling Anthocyanin Bioavailability for Human Health, Annual review of food science and technology, 2016, PubMed [Evidence: A]
  9. 9 . Anthocyanin Supplementation Alleviates Antithrombotic Risk by Inhibiting Platelet Activity in Humans, Alternative therapies in health and medicine, 2022, PubMed [Evidence: B]
  10. 10 . The significance of anthocyanins in the prevention and treatment of type 2 diabetes, Advances in clinical and experimental medicine, 2018, PubMed [Evidence: B]
  11. 11 . Anti-diabetic effect of anthocyanin cyanidin-3-O-glucoside: data from insulin resistant hepatocyte and diabetic mouse, Nutrition & diabetes, 2024, PubMed [Evidence: B]
  12. 12 . An Insight into Anti-Inflammatory Activities and Inflammation Related Diseases of Anthocyanins: A Review of Both In Vivo and In Vitro Investigations, International journal of molecular sciences, 2021, PubMed [Evidence: B]
  13. 13 . A dietary anthocyanin cyanidin-3-O-glucoside binds to PPARs to regulate glucose metabolism and insulin sensitivity in mice, Communications biology, 2020, PubMed [Evidence: B]
  14. 14 . Effects of anthocyanin supplementation on blood lipid levels: a systematic review and meta-analysis, Frontiers in nutrition, 2023, PubMed [Evidence: A]
  15. 15 . In vitro anticancer properties of anthocyanins: A systematic review, Biochimica et biophysica acta. Reviews on cancer, 2022, PubMed [Evidence: A]
  16. 16 . The preventive and therapeutic effects of anthocyanins on colorectal cancer: A comprehensive review based on up-to-date experimental studies, Food research international, 2023, PubMed [Evidence: B]

Medical Disclaimer


This content is for informational and educational purposes only. It is not intended to provide medical advice or to take the place of such advice or treatment from a personal physician. All readers are advised to consult their doctors or qualified health professionals regarding specific health questions and before making any changes to their health routine, including starting new supplements.

Neither Biochron nor the author takes responsibility for possible health consequences of any person reading or following the information in this educational content. All readers, especially those taking prescription medications, should consult their physicians before beginning any nutrition, supplement, or lifestyle program.

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