What are bilberries and how do they differ from blueberries. How can bilberries improve your eyesight and cardiovascular health. What potential benefits do bilberries offer for diabetes management and cognitive function. How might bilberries support digestive health and reduce inflammation in the body. What antioxidant properties do bilberries possess and how can they benefit overall health. Are there any potential side effects or precautions to consider when consuming bilberries.

The Bilberry: A Nordic Superfruit with Ancient Roots

Bilberries, scientifically known as Vaccinium myrtillus, are small, dark berries native to northern Europe, Asia, and parts of North America. These unassuming fruits have been used for medicinal purposes since the Middle Ages, earning them a reputation as a potent natural remedy. But what sets bilberries apart from their more familiar cousin, the blueberry?

Bilberries are smaller and darker than blueberries, with a more intense flavor profile. They’re packed with powerful compounds called anthocyanins, which give them their deep purple color and are responsible for many of their health benefits. While both fruits offer nutritional value, bilberries generally contain higher concentrations of these beneficial compounds.

Historical Use and Modern Interest

The use of bilberries for health purposes dates back centuries. During World War II, British pilots reportedly consumed bilberry jam to improve their night vision. This anecdotal evidence sparked scientific interest in the potential benefits of these berries, leading to numerous studies and a growing body of research.

Today, bilberries are promoted as a dietary supplement for various conditions, including eye health, cardiovascular support, and anti-inflammatory properties. While more research is needed to fully understand their effects, emerging studies suggest that bilberries may offer a range of health benefits.

Vision Enhancement: Bilberries and Eye Health

One of the most well-known potential benefits of bilberries is their impact on eye health. But how exactly might these tiny berries support our vision?

• Night vision improvement
• Cataract prevention
• Reduction of eye fatigue

The high concentration of anthocyanins in bilberries is thought to be responsible for their vision-enhancing properties. These compounds may help improve blood flow to the eyes and protect the retina from oxidative stress.

A small Japanese study involving 88 office workers found that consuming a bilberry extract helped alleviate eye fatigue. While these results are promising, larger studies are needed to confirm the effects and determine optimal dosages.

Can bilberries really improve night vision?

The idea that bilberries can enhance night vision stems from the World War II anecdote mentioned earlier. While some studies have shown improvements in dark adaptation and contrast sensitivity after bilberry consumption, the evidence is not conclusive. More research is needed to determine whether bilberries can significantly impact night vision in healthy individuals.

Cardiovascular Support: Bilberries for Heart Health

The potential cardiovascular benefits of bilberries have garnered significant attention from researchers. How might these berries contribute to a healthier heart?

1. Improved blood vessel function
2. Reduced inflammation
3. Lower blood pressure
4. Decreased risk of atherosclerosis

The anthocyanins and other polyphenols found in bilberries may help protect blood vessels from oxidative damage and improve their function. This could potentially lead to better blood flow and reduced risk of cardiovascular diseases.

Some studies have suggested that regular consumption of bilberries or bilberry extract may help lower blood pressure and reduce inflammation in the body. These effects could contribute to overall cardiovascular health and potentially decrease the risk of heart disease.

Bilberries and Atherosclerosis

Atherosclerosis, a condition characterized by the buildup of plaque in the arteries, is a major risk factor for heart disease and stroke. Some research suggests that the antioxidants in bilberries may help prevent the oxidation of LDL cholesterol, a key step in the development of atherosclerosis. However, more studies are needed to fully understand this potential benefit.

Blood Sugar Management: Bilberries and Diabetes

The potential effects of bilberries on blood sugar regulation have sparked interest in their use for diabetes management. But what does the research say about this potential benefit?

• Improved insulin sensitivity
• Better glucose metabolism
• Reduced risk of type 2 diabetes

Some studies have suggested that the compounds in bilberries may help improve insulin sensitivity and glucose metabolism. This could potentially lead to better blood sugar control in individuals with diabetes or those at risk of developing the condition.

A review of several studies found that regular consumption of bilberries or bilberry extract may be associated with a reduced risk of developing type 2 diabetes. However, more research is needed to confirm these findings and determine the optimal dosage and duration of use.

Are bilberries safe for people with diabetes?

While bilberries may offer potential benefits for blood sugar management, it’s important for individuals with diabetes to consult their healthcare provider before adding bilberry supplements to their regimen. Bilberries may interact with certain diabetes medications, potentially affecting blood sugar levels.

Cognitive Function: Bilberries and Brain Health

The potential cognitive benefits of bilberries have become a subject of increasing interest. How might these berries support brain health and cognitive function?

1. Improved memory
2. Enhanced cognitive performance
3. Neuroprotective effects
4. Potential reduction in age-related cognitive decline

The antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds found in bilberries may help protect brain cells from oxidative stress and inflammation, both of which are associated with cognitive decline and neurodegenerative diseases.

Some animal studies have shown improvements in memory and cognitive performance after bilberry supplementation. While these results are promising, more human studies are needed to confirm these effects and determine the optimal dosage for cognitive benefits.

Bilberries and Alzheimer’s Disease

Preliminary research suggests that the anthocyanins in bilberries may have neuroprotective properties that could potentially help prevent or slow the progression of Alzheimer’s disease. However, these studies are still in their early stages, and more research is needed to fully understand the potential role of bilberries in Alzheimer’s prevention and treatment.

Digestive Health: Bilberries and Gut Function

The potential benefits of bilberries for digestive health have been explored in both traditional medicine and modern research. But what does the science say about bilberries and gut function?

• Anti-inflammatory effects on the digestive tract
• Potential relief from diarrhea
• Support for a healthy gut microbiome

Historically, bilberries have been used to treat diarrhea and other digestive issues. While more research is needed, some studies suggest that the tannins and other compounds in bilberries may have astringent properties that could help alleviate diarrhea.

Additionally, the antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds in bilberries may help reduce inflammation in the digestive tract, potentially benefiting individuals with inflammatory bowel conditions.

Bilberries and Gut Microbiome

Emerging research suggests that the polyphenols in bilberries may act as prebiotics, supporting the growth of beneficial gut bacteria. A healthy gut microbiome is associated with numerous health benefits, including improved digestion, stronger immune function, and even better mental health. However, more studies are needed to fully understand the relationship between bilberry consumption and gut microbiome health.

Anti-inflammatory Properties: Bilberries and Chronic Inflammation

Chronic inflammation is linked to numerous health problems, including heart disease, diabetes, and certain cancers. How might bilberries help combat this pervasive health issue?

1. Reduction of inflammatory markers
2. Protection against oxidative stress
3. Potential relief from inflammatory conditions

The anthocyanins and other polyphenols in bilberries have demonstrated potent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties in laboratory and animal studies. These compounds may help reduce the production of inflammatory molecules in the body and protect cells from oxidative damage.

A small clinical study involving 24 people found that consuming bilberries may help reduce gum inflammation and bleeding. While these results are promising, larger studies are needed to confirm these effects and explore the potential benefits for other inflammatory conditions.

Bilberries and Exercise-Induced Inflammation

Interestingly, a small study with 21 participants suggested that consuming bilberry juice before and after a half-marathon may lead to small to moderate increases in muscle soreness and inflammation in recreationally trained runners. This unexpected finding highlights the complexity of the body’s inflammatory response and the need for more research to fully understand the effects of bilberries on exercise-induced inflammation.

Antioxidant Power: Bilberries and Cellular Health

The high antioxidant content of bilberries is one of their most celebrated attributes. But what does this mean for our overall health and cellular function?

• Protection against free radical damage
• Support for cellular repair and regeneration
• Potential anti-aging effects

Antioxidants help neutralize harmful free radicals in the body, which can damage cells and contribute to various health problems and accelerated aging. The anthocyanins and other antioxidants in bilberries may provide powerful protection against this oxidative stress.

Some studies suggest that the antioxidants in bilberries may help support cellular repair mechanisms and potentially slow down age-related cellular damage. However, more research is needed to fully understand these effects and their long-term implications for health and longevity.

Are bilberries more potent than other antioxidant-rich foods?

While bilberries are indeed rich in antioxidants, it’s important to note that many other fruits and vegetables also offer significant antioxidant benefits. The key to maximizing the antioxidant benefits in your diet is to consume a variety of colorful fruits and vegetables, including bilberries when available.

Safety and Precautions: Navigating Bilberry Consumption

While bilberries offer numerous potential health benefits, it’s essential to consider safety and potential interactions. What precautions should be taken when consuming bilberries or bilberry supplements?

1. Dosage considerations
2. Potential interactions with medications
3. Safety during pregnancy and breastfeeding
4. Possible side effects

Bilberry fruit is generally considered safe when consumed in amounts typically found in foods. However, high doses or long-term use of bilberry leaf extracts may not be safe and could potentially cause adverse effects.

It’s important to note that bilberry may interact with certain medications, including blood thinners and diabetes medications. Always consult with a healthcare provider before adding bilberry supplements to your regimen, especially if you’re taking any medications or have underlying health conditions.

Bilberries During Pregnancy and Breastfeeding

While consuming bilberries in food amounts is considered safe during pregnancy and breastfeeding, there’s limited information on the safety of bilberry supplements in these situations. It’s best to consult with a healthcare provider before using bilberry supplements during pregnancy or while breastfeeding.

In conclusion, bilberries offer a range of potential health benefits, from supporting eye health to providing powerful antioxidant protection. While more research is needed to fully understand their effects, incorporating these nutrient-rich berries into a balanced diet may contribute to overall health and well-being. As with any dietary supplement, it’s important to approach bilberry consumption mindfully and in consultation with a healthcare professional.

Bilberry | NCCIH

Skip to main content© Steven Foster

Common Names: bilberry, European blueberry, whortleberry, huckleberry

Latin Names: Vaccinium myrtillus

Background

• The bilberry bush is native to northern areas of Europe and Asia, the northern United States, and Canada. Its dark berries resemble blueberries.
• Its name is derived from the Danish word bollebar, which means “dark berry.”
• Bilberry has been used for medicinal purposes since the Middle Ages. The berries and leaves are the parts of the plant that are used. Historically, bilberry has been used for a variety of conditions, including diarrhea, inflammation of the mouth, urinary problems, and diabetes. It’s also been used traditionally to prevent scurvy, due to its high vitamin C content. During World War II, British pilots ate bilberry jam, thinking it would improve their night vision.
• Today, bilberry is promoted as a dietary supplement for night vision, cataracts, varicose veins, and other conditions such as atherosclerosis (in which plaque builds up in arteries).

How Much Do We Know?

• There are few high-quality clinical trials (studies in people) of bilberry supplements.

What Have We Learned?

• There’s little scientific evidence to support the use of bilberry for many health conditions.
• A few recent studies have suggested possible beneficial effects of bilberry. However, these studies involved small numbers of people. More research would be needed to confirm these findings.
  • Results from a small clinical study (24 people) suggest that consuming bilberries may reduce gum inflammation and bleeding.
  • Data from a Japanese study with 88 office workers suggest that a bilberry extract helped with eye fatigue.
  • Data from a small study with 21 people suggest that consuming bilberry juice for 5 days before and 2 days after a half-marathon may lead to small to moderate transient increases in muscle soreness and inflammation in recreationally trained runners.
• The berries have a high concentration of polyphenols called anthocyanins, which some studies suggest may have health benefits.

What Do We Know About Safety?

• Bilberry fruit is considered safe when consumed in amounts typically found in foods, or as an extract for 6 months to a year.
• Bilberry leaves may be unsafe when taken orally (by mouth) in high doses or for long periods of time.
• Little is known about whether it’s safe to use bilberry during pregnancy or while breastfeeding. (Consuming amounts typically found in foods is considered safe.)
• Bilberry may interact with a cancer drug called erlotinib (Tarceval), antidiabetes drugs, or medications that slow blood clotting. If you’re taking medicine, talk with your health care provider before taking bilberry supplements.

Keep in Mind

• Take charge of your health—talk with your health care providers about any complementary health approaches you use. Together, you can make shared, well-informed decisions.

NCCIH Clearinghouse

The NCCIH Clearinghouse provides information on NCCIH and complementary and integrative health approaches, including publications and searches of Federal databases of scientific and medical literature. The Clearinghouse does not provide medical advice, treatment recommendations, or referrals to practitioners.

Toll-free in the U.S.: 1-888-644-6226

Telecommunications relay service (TRS): 7-1-1

Website: https://www.nccih.nih.gov

Email: [email protected] (link sends email)

PubMed®

A service of the National Library of Medicine, PubMed® contains publication information and (in most cases) brief summaries of articles from scientific and medical journals. For guidance from NCCIH on using PubMed, see How To Find Information About Complementary Health Approaches on PubMed.

Website: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/

Office of Dietary Supplements (ODS), National Institutes of Health (NIH)

ODS seeks to strengthen knowledge and understanding of dietary supplements by evaluating scientific information, supporting research, sharing research results, and educating the public. Its resources include publications (such as Dietary Supplements: What You Need To Know) and fact sheets on a variety of specific supplement ingredients and products (such as vitamin D and multivitamin/mineral supplements).

Website: https://ods.od.nih.gov

Email: [email protected] (link sends email)

Key References

• Bilberry. Natural Medicines website. Accessed at naturalmedicines.therapeuticresearch.com on October 14, 2019. [Database subscription].
• Bilberry. LiverTox: Clinical and Research Information on Drug-Induced Liver Injury [Internet]. Bethesda, MD: National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases. Accessed at https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK548250/ on October 29. 2019.
• Lynn A, Garner S, Nelson N, et al. Effect of bilberry juice on indices of muscle damage and inflammation in runners competing a half-marathon: a randomised, placebo-controlled trial. Journal of the International Society of Sports Nutrition. 2018;15:22.
• Ozawa Y, Kawashima M, Inoue S, et al. Bilberry extract supplementation for preventing eye fatigue in video display terminal workers. Journal of Nutrition, Health & Aging. 2015;19(5):548-554.
• Tjelle TE, Holtung L, Bøhn SK, et al. Polyphenol-rich juices reduce blood pressure measures in a randomized controlled trial in high normal and hypertensive volunteers. British Journal of Nutrition. 2015;114(7):1054-1063.
• Widén C, Coleman M, Critén M, et al. Consumption of bilberries controls gingival inflammation. International Journal of Molecular Sciences. 2015;16(5):10,665-10,673.
• Yamaura K, Shimada M, Ueno K. Anthocyanins from bilberry (Vaccinium myrtillus L.) alleviate pruritus in a mouse model of chronic allergic contact dermatitis. Pharmacognosy Research. 2011;3(3):173-177.

This publication is not copyrighted and is in the public domain. Duplication is encouraged.

NCCIH has provided this material for your information. It is not intended to substitute for the medical expertise and advice of your health care provider(s). We encourage you to discuss any decisions about treatment or care with your health care provider. The mention of any product, service, or therapy is not an endorsement by NCCIH.

Last Updated: August 2020

9 Emerging Health Benefits of Bilberries

We include products we think are useful for our readers. If you buy through links on this page, we may earn a small commission Here’s our process.

Healthline only shows you brands and products that we stand behind.

Our team thoroughly researches and evaluates the recommendations we make on our site. To establish that the product manufacturers addressed safety and efficacy standards, we:

• Evaluate ingredients and composition: Do they have the potential to cause harm?
• Fact-check all health claims: Do they align with the current body of scientific evidence?
• Assess the brand: Does it operate with integrity and adhere to industry best practices?

We do the research so you can find trusted products for your health and wellness.

Read more about our vetting process.

Was this helpful?

Bilberries are linked to various health benefits, from improved vision to lower blood sugar and cholesterol levels.

Bilberries (Vaccinium myrtillus) are small, blue berries native to Northern Europe.

They’re often referred to as European blueberries, as they’re very similar in appearance to North American blueberries (1).

Bilberries have purportedly been used for medicinal purposes since the Middle Ages, while their juice was traditionally used to dye linen and paper (2).

Here are 9 emerging health benefits of bilberries, all backed by science.

Like most berries, bilberries are a nutrient-rich fruit.

With a nutritional profile resembling that of blueberries, they are commonly known as European blueberries, as they belong to the same plant family as this popular fruit (3).

Accordingly, bilberries can be expected to offer around 85 calories, 15 grams of naturally-occurring sugar, and 4 grams of fiber per cup (148 grams).

Similarly to blueberries, they likely contain around 85% water, as well as good amounts of manganese and vitamins C and K (4).

Summary

Bilberries are relatively low in calories, yet a good source of water, fiber, manganese, and vitamins C and K.

Bilberries are rich in antioxidants, which are beneficial plant compounds that help protect your body against damage and disease.

Research shows that berries, including blueberries, are among the foods with the highest antioxidant levels. Due to their close relationship to blueberries, bilberries likely share the same properties (5, 6).

Bilberries contain vitamin C and phenolic acids and are an especially good source of anthocyanins, the powerful flavonoid antioxidant that gives red, purple, and blue fruits and vegetables their characteristic color (1, 7).

Anthocyanins are thought to be responsible for most of these berries’ health benefits.

Summary

Berries are one of the best dietary sources of antioxidants. Bilberries are an especially good source of anthocyanins, a powerful antioxidant likely responsible for their health benefits.

Bilberries are most popular for their purported ability to improve vision, particularly night vision.

A few small studies have researched these berries’ effects on night vision but concluded that this benefit is not supported by strong evidence (8).

That said, bilberries may benefit your vision in other ways.

Other studies suggest that supplementing with 160–480 mg of powdered bilberry extract daily may reduce eye dryness and other symptoms of eye fatigue caused by working with video display terminals (9, 10, 11).

However, more research is needed to confirm these benefits.

Summary

Bilberries may improve vision in people with glaucoma and reduce eye fatigue and dryness in people working with video display terminals. However, more research in this area is needed.

Bilberries may help fight inflammation, which is believed to be the root cause of many diseases.

This effect may partly be due to their content of anthocyanins, which are antioxidants with anti-inflammatory properties (1).

Data from studies show that bilberry reduces levels of inflammatory markers in most clinical studies of metabolic disorders and may be useful for the prevention and treatment of chronic inflammatory disorders (12).

One study including 24 participants showed preliminary improvements in signs and symptoms of severe dry eyes after taking dietary supplementation of bilberry extract and fish oil for 3 months (13).

However, more research is needed to confirm these effects.

Summary

Bilberries are rich in anthocyanins, which are antioxidants that may reduce markers of inflammation.

Bilberry extract appears effective in lowering HbA1c and total and LDL cholesterol (14).

Anthocyanins in bilberries are mainly associated with oxidative stress inhibition and gut microbiota modulation (15).

Anthocyanins are powerful antioxidants and play an important role in the prevention of metabolic disease and type 2 diabetes (16).

An 8-week study showed that a diet enriched with fresh bilberries increased insulin secretion in adults with metabolic syndrome, a cluster of conditions that increases your risk of type 2 diabetes, stroke, and heart disease (17).

However, more human studies are needed before strong conclusions can be drawn.

Summary

Bilberries may stimulate insulin secretion and prevent the breakdown of carbs in your gut, both of which may help lower blood sugar levels. Still, more human studies are needed.

Bilberries may benefit the health of your heart. Test-tube research suggests that the specific mix of anthocyanins in bilberries may help lower blood pressure (18).

In one 8-week study, 35 people who took a mixture of various berries, including bilberries, daily experienced improved platelet function, blood pressure, and HDL (good) cholesterol levels — all markers linked to a healthier heart (19).

Increasing research has showed that anthocyanins in berries help in protecting vision, inhibition of lipid peroxidation, anti-cardiovascular disease properties and control of hypoglycemic conditions (20).

Yet, more research is needed to confirm these effects.

Summary

Bilberries may help lower blood pressure, reduce LDL (bad) cholesterol, and increase HDL (good) cholesterol, thus improving your heart health. Nevertheless, more human studies are needed.

Bilberries may offer the following additional health benefits:

7. May improve brain function. Powdered bilberry supplements are linked to improved long-term and working memory in older adults (21).
8. May kill bacteria. Test-tube studies show that bilberries may have antimicrobial effects against potentially harmful bacteria, such as Salmonella and Staphylococcus aureus (22).
9. May improve symptoms of ulcerative colitis (UC). A study in 13 people found that daily intake of a bilberry supplement reduced chronic inflammation of the colon and rectum in people with UC (23).

Keep in mind that these studies were small, and some lacked a placebo group, making it difficult to determine whether the bilberry supplements are what caused the beneficial effects. Therefore, more studies are needed.

Summary

Bilberries may improve learning and memory in older adults, fight off certain bacteria, and reduce symptoms of ulcerative colitis. However, more studies are needed to confirm these effects.

There are many ways to add bilberries to your diet.

They have a similar yet slightly more intense flavor than blueberries. You can eat them fresh or dried, on their own, or as part of any recipe that might include blueberries.

For instance, bilberries make a great addition to pancakes, muffins, and other baked goods. You can also include them in smoothies, oatmeal, salads, and yogurt parfaits.

Plus, they can be used to make jam, or you can simply mash them with a fork to use as a quick spread on your toast.

Bilberry supplements are an alternative way to add this fruit to your diet. They can be found as drops or in the form of powdered tablets or capsules in health stores and online.

However, the whole fruit may be more beneficial, as it likely provides an array of other nutrients not found in most supplements.

Summary

Fresh and dried bilberries can be eaten on their own or incorporated into a variety of recipes. Bilberries can also be found in powdered and liquid supplements.

Bilberries are considered safe for most people when consumed in typical amounts.

However, the larger doses found in some supplements may be problematic, especially when taken over long periods (24).

Bilberries are rich in vitamin K, which thickens blood and helps your blood clot. It may impact those that need their blood thinner to prevent a stroke. Consult your health care provider as vitamin K interacts with certain medications. (25).

Bilberry supplements may not be safe for children, as well as pregnant or breastfeeding women. They may also interact with some medications, so be sure to consult your healthcare provider before adding them to your diet.

Though bilberry leaf tea is sometimes used as an herbal remedy, the leaves are considered poisonous and experts don’t recommend them for this use (26).

The limited number of studies and large variations in dosages make it challenging to determine the most effective dose. Still, most human studies have used anywhere between 50 grams of fresh bilberries to 500 mg of bilberry supplements.

Summary

Fresh bilberries are generally considered safe, but the large doses found in some supplements may be problematic. Children, those taking certain medications, as well as pregnant and breastfeeding women may need to avoid bilberry supplements.

Bilberries are small European blueberries that are rich in many nutrients and beneficial compounds.

They’re linked to reduced inflammation and blood sugar levels, as well as improved vision and heart health. They may even improve brain function, fight off bacteria, and reduce symptoms of ulcerative colitis.

As is the case with most berries, bilberries are a healthy addition to your diet.

health benefits and harms for men, women, children

The history of the appearance of blueberries in nutrition

Blueberries are a shrub from the lingonberry family. Berries ripen from mid-summer. Blueberries are common in coniferous-deciduous forests on moist soil. It grows mainly in the European part of Russia, in Siberia and Karelia.

Traditionally, this berry is considered Russian. Blueberries occupy vast territories, serve as an important honey plant for bees. The Russian name for blueberries comes from the word “blacken” – to paint hands and mouth with juice. The Latin name takes its roots from the word “cow”, since the leaves of this plant were used to feed cattle.

Blueberries contain a bright coloring substance that is an indicator of acidity – when it decreases, the color changes to blue. This dye is used when branding meat, dyeing wool and canvases.

The Blueberry Festival is held annually in the Perm Territory. In 2012, they made a pie from this berry 70 meters long – it entered the Guinness Book of Records.

Blueberry composition and calories

90 019 7.6 g

Blueberry benefits

Blueberries are an excellent source of vitamins, especially A , C and B vitamins. There are a lot of manganese, magnesium and calcium in these berries.

Anthocyanins, natural antioxidants, give blueberries their dark color. Most of the antioxidants are in blueberries. They are able to bind free radicals and protect against cell damage. This reduces the risk of tumor formation. Anthocyanins also reduce the risk of diseases of the heart, blood vessels and eyes.

In addition to anthocyanins, this berry also contains other antioxidants: flavonoids, tannins, which have a similar effect and suppress inflammation.

Bilberry extract is very well known in ophthalmology. Many unscrupulous firms distort the real effects of blueberry active ingredients and promise “eye like an eagle.” This is wrong. Indeed, by improving the blood circulation of the retina, the risk of retinal detachment is reduced, and this is where the beneficial properties of blueberries for vision end.

Fresh and dried berries help in the treatment of diarrhea, as well as gastritis, peptic ulcer.

Bilberry leaves are also useful – they have an insulin-like effect and reduce sugar in diabetes.

Harm of blueberries

— It is undesirable to use these berries in case of urolithiasis. Blueberries can cause new stones to form.

Berries, should be consumed in moderation (about 100 g), otherwise it can provoke allergies and lead to constipation, says gastroenterologist Olga Arisheva .

Medicinal uses of blueberries

Both berries and leaves are used medicinally. The most famous property is supposedly to improve twilight vision, and generally increase its sharpness. According to scientific studies, blueberries are really good for the eyes, but they do not improve vision. This berry improves blood circulation, reduces the risk of retinal detachment, and treats some other eye diseases. Blueberries are part of many fees and dietary supplements for eye health. Useful for those who strain their eyes a lot in connection with their profession. However, blueberries, alas, cannot improve vision itself.

In addition to the well-known properties, blueberries have the ability to fix, so they are effective against diarrhea. The leaves are also used in the treatment of diabetes – neomyrtillin glycoside is able to reduce blood sugar. Also, the shoots of this plant are part of some herbal preparations for the prevention of diabetes.

Bilberry uses in cooking

Berry is excellent for baking and desserts, various drinks. The juice is often used as a coloring agent for liqueurs.

Blueberry pie

Simple sponge cake with fragrant berry filling

Photo: pixabay.com

9 0018

Blueberries	350 g
Flour	400 g
Milk	250 ml
Sugar	100 g
Butter	100 g
Eggs	3 pcs.
Baking soda	pinch
Salt	to taste
Powdered sugar	100 g along with sugar. Add soft butter and milk, stir. Add flour, salt and soda, mix quickly. Pour the batter into a baking dish. Sort blueberries, wash and drain. You can use frozen – then you do not need to defrost. Put the berries on top of the dough, sprinkle with powdered sugar and bake the cake in an oven preheated to 200 degrees for 30 minutes. Share your recipe Send your signature dish recipe to [email protected] . Komsomolskaya Pravda will publish the most interesting and unusual ideas Blueberry ice cream Bright ice cream made from simple ingredients. Only immersion blender or mixer with blades needed Photo: pixabay.com Blueberries 300g Sour cream 25 0 g Sugar 75 g Puree fresh or frozen blueberries. Add sour cream, sugar and mix everything until sugar dissolves. Pour the puree into a wide container in a thin layer to make it easier to break the ice later with a blender. Put the container in the freezer for an hour, take it out and beat with a blender. Remove again for an hour and beat again, repeat after an hour. This is done in order to break up the ice crystals and get a smooth ice cream texture. How to choose and store blueberries When choosing blueberries, pay attention to the waxy coating. If it is, then the blueberries are as fresh as possible. Berries should not be soft, have a smell of fermentation and let juice. Fresh berries even in the refrigerator are stored for only a couple of days – after that they become soft and release juice. Before this, it is better not to wash the blueberries, but to wash each batch immediately before eating. You can freeze blueberries. Before that, it needs to be sorted out, cleaned of litter and washed. Let the water drain and dry on a towel. After that, pour into a container in a thin layer and freeze. When the berries are set, they can be transferred to bags. This method will not allow them to stick together and become limp. So the berries lie for up to a year. Dried blueberries keep in a dark place in glass for about 2 years. Blueberries – composition and useful properties. Health Benefits of Blueberries July is the peak of the blueberry season. Berry hunters go to the forests alone and with whole families, armed with buckets, “harvesters” and remarkable patience. However, diligence pays off handsomely. Blueberries are an ideal raw material for home-made preparations for the winter and a source of income, because the producers are not behind the price. But most importantly, the berry has unique properties that bring exceptional health benefits. However, let’s talk about everything in order. What blueberries are rich in If we talk about useful components of blueberries, it is easier to list what is not in them. Having “decomposed” the berry into its components, if desired, you can study the periodic table. There is iron, manganese, copper, potassium, and sulfur with phosphorus… In addition, blueberries are an excellent source of vitamins C, PP and B group. , magnesium, manganese, vitamin C and carotene. Let’s not forget about the antioxidants that blueberries contain in large quantities. And also about the essential organic acids (citric, quinic, oxalic, malic, lactic) and tannins that make up the berry. Each of the components of blueberries has its own role in the beneficial effects on human health. There are at least 100 types of blueberries in the world. And not all of them are a well-known undersized shrub with medium-sized dark blue berries. For example, Caucasian blueberries grow taller than a human being. And the height of the tree-like blueberry even reaches the level of a three-story house. Japanese blueberries have bright red berries, while Indian blueberries are white. Benefits of blueberries for vision Perhaps the most well-known fact about the healing properties of blueberries is their ability to positively affect vision. It has been proven that the substances that make up the wild berry stimulate the blood circulation of the retina and, accordingly, improve vigilance. An interesting fact: during the Great Patriotic War, Soviet pilots were required to drink blueberry jelly before night flights. Although blueberries are traditionally the No. 1 product for sharp vision, tomatoes, yellow and red bell peppers, and green vegetables have the same properties. The benefits of blueberries for the heart and blood vessels Regular consumption of blueberries is an effective way to prevent myocardial infarction. Of course, relying only on the berry is too reckless, if at the same time you lead a lifestyle that is far from healthy. But if negative factors are minimized and blueberries are included in the diet, this will become a powerful preventive tool against diseases of the heart and blood vessels. This is primarily due to the potassium, folic acid and phytochemical components contained in blueberries, which have a hypotonic effect (that is, they can lower blood pressure) and strengthen the walls of blood vessels. As well as anticoagulants, which reduce blood clotting and prevent the formation of blood clots. Researchers at the Harvard School of Public Health and the University of East Anglia conducted a study of more than 93,000 women aged 25 to 42. Regular consumption of blueberries has been shown to reduce the risk of heart attack by 32%. Benefits of blueberries for the stomach and figure In folk medicine, blueberries are especially valued as a sure remedy for stomach problems. Useful fibers that a small berry contains in abundance contribute to the normalization of digestion, have a beneficial effect on metabolic processes, and have a disinfectant effect on the gastrointestinal tract. Therefore, blueberries are equally effective in coping with any intestinal disorders: fresh berries help with constipation, dried berries help with diarrhea. But for people who are struggling with being overweight, blueberries are a real lifesaver. Berry pectins perfectly cleanse the intestines and remove metabolic products from the body, pantothenic acid improves metabolism. Blueberries have a low calorie content and can claim the title of a unique dietary product. The energy value of 100 g of blueberries is only 40 kcal. But in the harvest of berries there is a whole cocktail of useful substances. Blueberries are a natural alternative to synthetic vitamin and mineral complexes. Blueberries are the guarantee of eternal youth One of the main advantages of blueberries is anthocyanin. This plant substance belongs to the group of flavonoids. The berry owes its rich blue color to it. But for humans, the benefits of anthocyanin lies in its powerful antioxidant effect. In simple terms, it provides blueberries with the ability to remove toxins from the body, which accelerate the aging process. The conclusion suggests itself: more blueberries – longer youth. This fact has been scientifically confirmed by scientists at the Boston University Food Research Center. After testing, the researchers were pleasantly surprised by the results: the berry, unpretentious to growing conditions, is able to start processes that significantly slow down the aging of the body and have a rejuvenating effect. The head of research, by the way, has become an avid blueberry drinker himself and regularly eats blueberries for breakfast. It is not for nothing that blueberries are often called rejuvenating berries. Her passionate admirers are distinguished by clear skin, shiny hair and invariably cheerful mood. And why wouldn’t they shine! Regularly including fresh blueberries or blueberry dishes in the menu, they provide a regular supply of vitamin C, which is “tied” to the production and action of collagen, which is responsible for the absence of wrinkles and the general condition of the skin. But the effect of wild berries on the body is not limited to external rejuvenating effect. Scientists have shown that regular consumption of blueberries slows down the natural decline in cognitive ability in the elderly, and also improves short-term memory. Blueberries – a cure for everything By right, blueberries can be called not only a storehouse of nutrients useful for the body, but also a natural medicine. The fingers of both hands are not enough to list the healing properties of the berry. Substances contained in it have anti-inflammatory, disinfectant, immunostimulatory effects. is a natural antiseptic and antibiotic created by nature. Moreover, not only berries, but also leaves, young shoots of the plant have the same healing properties. As a medicine, blueberries are dried, dried, frozen. Infusions and decoctions are prepared from the leaves, which are then drunk or used for compresses and lotions. Leave a Reply Cancel reply Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked * Comment * Name * Email * Website