What are the potential health benefits of bilberry. How is bilberry used medicinally. What does scientific research say about bilberry’s effectiveness. Are there any side effects or safety concerns with bilberry supplements.

The History and Origins of Bilberry

Bilberry (Vaccinium myrtillus), also known as European blueberry or whortleberry, is a small shrub native to northern Europe, Asia, and parts of North America. Its dark purple berries closely resemble blueberries in appearance and taste. The name “bilberry” derives from the Danish word “bollebar,” meaning “dark berry.”

This plant has a long history of medicinal use dating back to the Middle Ages. Traditionally, both the berries and leaves were utilized for various health purposes. During World War II, British Royal Air Force pilots reportedly consumed bilberry jam, believing it would enhance their night vision capabilities.

Traditional and Modern Uses of Bilberry

Bilberry has been used historically to address a wide range of health concerns:

• Diarrhea
• Inflammation of the mouth
• Urinary problems
• Diabetes
• Scurvy prevention (due to high vitamin C content)

In modern times, bilberry supplements are promoted for:

• Improving night vision
• Preventing and treating cataracts
• Alleviating varicose veins
• Supporting cardiovascular health (e.g., atherosclerosis prevention)

The Scientific Evidence Behind Bilberry’s Health Claims

Despite its long history of use, scientific research on bilberry’s effectiveness for many health conditions remains limited. High-quality clinical trials involving bilberry supplements are scarce. However, some recent studies have shown promising results, though larger-scale research is needed to confirm these findings.

Potential Benefits Suggested by Recent Studies

• Reduction in gum inflammation and bleeding (based on a small study with 24 participants)
• Alleviation of eye fatigue (observed in a Japanese study with 88 office workers)
• Possible effects on muscle soreness and inflammation in runners (based on a small study with 21 participants)

Is bilberry effective for improving night vision? While this is a popular claim, there is currently insufficient scientific evidence to support bilberry’s use for enhancing night vision or treating eye conditions like cataracts.

The Nutritional Profile of Bilberry

Bilberries are rich in various nutrients and bioactive compounds, particularly polyphenols called anthocyanins. These powerful antioxidants give the berries their deep purple color and are thought to be responsible for many of bilberry’s potential health benefits.

What makes bilberry nutritionally unique? Some key components include:

• Vitamin C
• Manganese
• Dietary fiber
• Anthocyanins and other flavonoids
• Tannins

How do anthocyanins in bilberry potentially benefit health? These compounds have been associated with various positive effects in scientific studies, including:

• Anti-inflammatory properties
• Antioxidant activity
• Potential cardiovascular benefits
• Possible neuroprotective effects

Safety Considerations and Potential Side Effects of Bilberry

When consumed in amounts typically found in foods, bilberry fruit is generally considered safe. Bilberry extract has also been used safely in studies for periods of 6 months to a year. However, there are some important safety considerations to keep in mind:

Bilberry Leaves

Are bilberry leaves safe for consumption? Unlike the fruit, bilberry leaves may pose risks when taken orally in high doses or for extended periods. It’s advisable to exercise caution with leaf-based supplements.

Pregnancy and Breastfeeding

Can pregnant or breastfeeding women safely consume bilberry? While eating bilberries in normal food amounts is likely safe, there’s limited information on the safety of bilberry supplements during pregnancy or lactation. It’s best to consult with a healthcare provider before using bilberry supplements in these situations.

Drug Interactions

Bilberry may interact with certain medications, including:

• Erlotinib (Tarceva), a cancer drug
• Antidiabetes medications
• Blood-thinning medications

Why is it important to inform your healthcare provider about bilberry supplement use? These potential interactions highlight the necessity of discussing all dietary supplements with your doctor, especially if you’re taking other medications.

Dosage and Administration of Bilberry Supplements

There is no standardized dosage for bilberry supplements, as research on optimal amounts is limited. Dosages used in studies have varied widely, depending on the form of bilberry and the condition being studied.

Common Forms of Bilberry Supplements

• Dried berries
• Powdered extract
• Liquid extract
• Capsules or tablets

How should bilberry supplements be taken? Follow the instructions on the product label or consult with a healthcare professional for personalized advice. It’s crucial to remember that dietary supplements are not regulated as strictly as medications, so quality and potency can vary between products.

Integrating Bilberry into Your Diet

While supplements are one way to incorporate bilberry into your routine, consuming the whole fruit can be a delicious and nutritious option. Fresh bilberries are seasonal and may not be widely available, but dried bilberries and bilberry-based products are more accessible.

Ways to Include Bilberry in Your Diet

• Add fresh or dried bilberries to cereals, yogurt, or smoothies
• Use bilberry jam or preserves as a spread
• Incorporate dried bilberries into baked goods
• Brew bilberry tea using dried berries or leaves

Can bilberry be a healthy addition to your diet? While more research is needed to confirm its medicinal benefits, bilberry is a nutrient-rich fruit that can contribute to a balanced diet when consumed in moderation.

Future Research and Potential Applications of Bilberry

As interest in natural remedies and functional foods grows, bilberry continues to be a subject of scientific inquiry. Ongoing and future research may focus on:

• Larger, more rigorous clinical trials to validate potential health benefits
• Investigation of bilberry’s effects on eye health and vision
• Exploration of bilberry’s antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties in various health conditions
• Development of standardized bilberry extracts for potential therapeutic use

What role might bilberry play in future preventive health strategies? As our understanding of bilberry’s bioactive compounds and their effects on human health expands, this humble berry may find new applications in both dietary recommendations and complementary medicine approaches.

Choosing and Storing Bilberry Products

Whether you’re purchasing fresh bilberries, dried fruit, or supplements, quality matters. Here are some tips for selecting and storing bilberry products:

Fresh Bilberries

• Look for firm, plump berries with a deep blue-purple color
• Avoid berries that are soft, mushy, or have signs of mold
• Store in the refrigerator and consume within a few days

Dried Bilberries

• Choose products without added sugars or preservatives
• Store in an airtight container in a cool, dry place

Bilberry Supplements

• Select products from reputable manufacturers
• Look for supplements that have been third-party tested for quality and purity
• Store according to package instructions, typically in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight

How can you ensure you’re getting a high-quality bilberry supplement? Consider products that have been certified by organizations like USP (United States Pharmacopeia) or NSF International, which verify the quality and purity of dietary supplements.

Bilberry in Comparison to Other Berries

Bilberry is often compared to its close relative, the blueberry, as well as other dark-colored berries like blackberries and elderberries. While they share some similarities, there are also notable differences:

Bilberry vs. Blueberry

• Bilberries are smaller and darker than cultivated blueberries
• Bilberries have a more intense flavor and higher anthocyanin content
• Blueberries are more widely cultivated and easily available

Nutritional Comparison

How does bilberry stack up nutritionally against other berries? While all berries offer health benefits, bilberry is particularly noted for its high anthocyanin content. However, each type of berry has its unique nutritional profile:

• Blackberries: Rich in vitamin C and fiber
• Elderberries: High in vitamin C and antioxidants, often used for immune support
• Raspberries: Good source of fiber and vitamin C
• Strawberries: Excellent source of vitamin C and folate

Is one berry superior to others? Rather than focusing on a single “superfood,” it’s generally recommended to include a variety of berries and other fruits in your diet to benefit from their diverse nutritional offerings.

The Role of Bilberry in Traditional Medicine Systems

Bilberry has been utilized in various traditional medicine systems around the world, particularly in European folk medicine. Understanding its historical uses can provide context for modern applications and research directions:

European Traditional Medicine

• Used for treating diarrhea and dysentery
• Applied topically for skin conditions and wound healing
• Consumed to support digestive health

Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM)

While not native to China, bilberry has been incorporated into some TCM practices:

• Used to support eye health and vision
• Believed to nourish the blood and improve circulation

Native American Medicine

Native American tribes in regions where bilberry or similar species grow have used these berries for various purposes:

• As a natural dye
• For treating coughs and lung issues
• As a general tonic for health and vitality

How do traditional uses of bilberry align with modern scientific research? While some traditional applications lack scientific validation, others have inspired current research directions, particularly in areas like eye health and circulatory support.

Bilberry in the Food and Beverage Industry

Beyond its use as a supplement, bilberry has found its way into various food and beverage products. Its unique flavor profile and potential health benefits make it an attractive ingredient for manufacturers:

Common Bilberry Products

• Jams and preserves
• Fruit juices and smoothies
• Flavored teas
• Baked goods and desserts
• Flavoring for yogurts and other dairy products

Bilberry in Functional Foods

The food industry has begun incorporating bilberry into products marketed for specific health benefits:

• Eye health supplements
• Antioxidant-rich snack bars
• Probiotic drinks with added bilberry extract

Is the use of bilberry in commercial products backed by science? While bilberry does offer nutritional benefits, it’s important to approach health claims on packaged foods critically. The effectiveness of bilberry in these products may depend on factors like the amount used and how it’s processed.

Sustainable Harvesting and Conservation of Bilberry

As demand for bilberry products grows, there’s increasing concern about sustainable harvesting practices and conservation of wild bilberry populations:

Challenges in Bilberry Cultivation

• Bilberries are primarily wild-harvested rather than cultivated
• The plants have specific soil and climate requirements, making large-scale farming challenging
• Wild populations can be vulnerable to over-harvesting

Conservation Efforts

Various initiatives are underway to ensure the sustainable use of bilberry resources:

• Development of cultivation techniques to reduce reliance on wild harvesting
• Implementation of harvesting guidelines in countries where bilberries grow naturally
• Research into the ecological role of bilberries in their native habitats

Why is sustainable harvesting of bilberry important? Preserving wild bilberry populations is crucial not only for continued human use but also for maintaining biodiversity and supporting wildlife that depends on these plants.

Regulatory Status and Quality Control of Bilberry Products

As with many dietary supplements, the regulation of bilberry products varies by country and can impact their quality and safety:

Regulatory Landscape

• In the United States, bilberry supplements are regulated as dietary supplements by the FDA
• In the European Union, bilberry extracts may be subject to novel food regulations depending on their concentration and intended use
• Some countries have specific quality standards for bilberry extracts used in supplements

Quality Control Challenges

Ensuring the quality and authenticity of bilberry products presents several challenges:

• Potential adulteration with less expensive berry extracts
• Variability in active compound content between different batches or products
• Limited standardization of extraction methods and product formulations

How can consumers ensure they’re getting genuine, high-quality bilberry products? Look for products that have been certified by independent testing organizations and choose reputable brands that provide information about their sourcing and quality control processes.

As research continues to explore the potential benefits of bilberry, it remains an intriguing subject in the fields of nutrition and complementary medicine. While more studies are needed to fully understand its effects on human health, bilberry’s rich nutritional profile and long history of traditional use make it a noteworthy addition to discussions about functional foods and natural remedies. As with any dietary supplement, it’s important to approach bilberry use with an informed perspective, considering both its potential benefits and limitations.

Bilberry | NCCIH

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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.

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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).

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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

Overview, Uses, Side Effects, Precautions, Interactions, Dosing and Reviews

Overview

Bilberry (Vaccinium myrtillus) is a plant that produces berries similar to the American blueberry. The dried fruit and leaves are used as medicine.

Bilberry contains chemicals called tannins. They might help reduce swelling. The chemicals in bilberry leaves might also help to lower blood sugar and cholesterol levels, and improve circulation in people with diabetes.

People use bilberry for night vision, poor circulation that can cause the legs to swell, high blood pressure, and many other conditions. But there is no good scientific evidence to support any of these uses.

Uses & Effectiveness ?

Possibly Ineffective for

• Ability to see in low-light conditions. Taking bilberry by mouth doesn’t improve night vision in healthy people. It isn’t clear if bilberry is helpful in people with night blindness.

There is interest in using bilberry for a number of other purposes, but there isn’t enough reliable information to say whether it might be helpful.

Side Effects

When taken by mouth: Eating dried, ripe bilberry fruit in typical food amounts is likely safe for most people. Bilberry fruit extracts are possibly safe when taken in doses up to 160 mg daily for up to 6 months. But bilberry leaf is possibly unsafe to take in high doses or for a long time.

Special Precautions and Warnings

When taken by mouth: Eating dried, ripe bilberry fruit in typical food amounts is likely safe for most people. Bilberry fruit extracts are possibly safe when taken in doses up to 160 mg daily for up to 6 months. But bilberry leaf is possibly unsafe to take in high doses or for a long time. Pregnancy and breast-feeding: Bilberry fruit is likely safe when consumed in small amounts as a food. There isn’t enough reliable information to know if it is safe to use bilberry in the higher doses found in medicine when pregnant or breast-feeding. Stay on the safe side and stick with food amounts.

Surgery: Bilberry might affect blood sugar levels. This could interfere with blood sugar control during and after surgery. Stop taking bilberry at least two weeks before a scheduled surgery.

Interactions ?

Moderate Interaction

Be cautious with this combination

• Bilberry might lower blood sugar levels. Taking bilberry along with diabetes medications might cause blood sugar to drop too low. Monitor your blood sugar closely.

• Bilberry might slow blood clotting. Taking bilberry along with medications that also slow blood clotting might increase the risk of bruising and bleeding.

• Some medications are changed and broken down by the liver. Bilberry might change how quickly the liver breaks down these medications. This could change the effects and side effects of these medications.

Dosing

Bilberry fruit has most often been used by adults in doses of 160-240 mg by mouth daily for up to 6 months. Bilberry extracts are usually standardized to contain a certain amount of chemicals called anthocyanins. Products providing 120-160 mg of these chemicals daily have been used for up to 6 months. Speak with a healthcare provider to find out what type of product and dose might be best for a specific condition.

View References

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CONDITIONS OF USE AND IMPORTANT INFORMATION: This information is meant to supplement, not replace advice from your doctor or healthcare provider and is not meant to cover all possible uses, precautions, interactions or adverse effects. This information may not fit your specific health circumstances. Never delay or disregard seeking professional medical advice from your doctor or other qualified health care provider because of something you have read on WebMD. You should always speak with your doctor or health care professional before you start, stop, or change any prescribed part of your health care plan or treatment and to determine what course of therapy is right for you.

This copyrighted material is provided by Natural Medicines Comprehensive Database Consumer Version. Information from this source is evidence-based and objective, and without commercial influence. For professional medical information on natural medicines, see Natural Medicines Comprehensive Database Professional Version.
© Therapeutic Research Faculty 2020.

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 well-known to us undersized shrubs 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. Leave a Reply Cancel reply Your email address will not be published. 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