| Dietary sources | |
|
The blueberry belongs to the Vaccinium genus of the heather family (Ericaceae) and is native to the northern hemisphere. In Europe, the best-known representative is the blueberry Vaccinium myrtillus. Blueberries are characterized by their high mineral, fibers and flavonoid content. They can be used in fruit salads, jams and compotes and are also added to milk and dairy products. Often, they are also added to desserts, cakes, pies and muffins. |
| Antioxidative protection of blueberries |
| The anthocyanins contained in blueberries have a high antioxidative potency. In addition to the general protective function against oxidative stress, animal studies have demonstrated reductions in age-related adaptation disorders and neuronal deficits and an increase in myocardial tolerance in ischemia.1, 2 |
| Blueberry extract influences inflammatory processes |
| Blueberry extract significantly influences both blood sugar levels and C-reactive protein, which is an indicator of inflammatory processes. Supplementation with blueberry extract leads to lower fasting blood sugar levels. It has also been documented that blueberry extract can reduce alanine aminotransferase (ALT), aspartate aminotransferase (AST) and glutamyltransferase (GGT) levels, highlighting the anti-inflammatory properties of the extract.3 A study in mice also demonstrated a significant improvement in glucose tolerance, as well as a positive effect on triglyceride levels, a reduction in hepatic fat accumulation and protection against liver steatosis.4 In this context, one study showed that the administration of a polyphenol-rich diet (from blueberries, among others) led to a change in the intestinal flora and to an increase in the metabolite indole-3-propionic acid, which has antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and neuroprotective properties, with a simultaneous decrease in inflammation levels.5 |
| Wild blueberry extract accelerates wound healing |
|
Polyphenol-rich wild blueberry extract showed a positive effect on blood vessel formation and wound healing time in a study with rats, Compared to those groups with rats that did not receive wild blueberry extract but received a base gel or no therapy at all, the rats treated with wild blueberry extract showed improved migration of endothelial cells to the wound site and a 12% increase in wound closure.6 |
| Effect | Indication | Dosage |
| Physiological effects at a low intake |
To maintain a balanced antioxidant status during elevated oxidative stress from UV radiation, physical activity, physical and psychological stress | 20 - 50 mg blueberry extract/d |
| Adjuvant therapy for acute and chronic diseases to strengthen the antioxidative systems | 20 - 50 mg blueberry extract/d | |
| For prevention of free radical associated diabetic late sequelae such as polyneuropathy, retinopathies, nephropathies or diabetic foot following Diabetes-mellitus | 20 - 50 mg blueberry extract/d |
| General mode of administration | |
| When |
Blueberry extract should be taken between meals. |
| Side effects | |
| No relevant side effects known to date. | |
| Contraindications | |
| No relevant contraindications known to date. | |
| Drug or nutrient interactions | |
| None | No interactions are known to date. |
| References |
|
1) Nutrient Data Laboratory, Beltsville Human Nutrition Research Center (BHNRC), Agricultural Research Service (ARS), U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA). 2007. Oxygen Radical Absorbance Capacity (ORAC) of Selected Foods. References Interactions |
