Bilberries (Vaccinium myrtillus), often overshadowed by their cousin the blueberry, are emerging as a potent superfruit with a rich history in traditional medicine and a growing body of scientific research supporting their health benefits. Packed with anthocyanins and other polyphenols, bilberries offer a range of health-promoting properties, particularly in supporting eye health, cardiovascular function, and metabolic balance.
What Makes Bilberries Unique?
Bilberries are native to Northern Europe and are renowned for their deep blue hue, attributed to their high anthocyanin content. These compounds are powerful antioxidants that combat oxidative stress and inflammation, key factors in many chronic diseases. Unlike cultivated blueberries, wild bilberries have a higher concentration of these beneficial compounds, making them a superior choice for health supplementation.
👁️ Eye Health and Vision Support
Bilberries have long been associated with eye health. During World War II, British pilots reportedly consumed bilberry jam to enhance night vision. Modern research supports these traditional claims: Mount Sinai Health System
- Visual Function: A randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study found that bilberry extract supplementation improved eye fatigue and visual function in individuals using visual display terminals. Verywell Health+3Functional Food Center+3Frontiers+3
- Dry Eye Relief: A study published in Frontiers in Nutrition indicated that bilberry supplementation, combined with fish oil, alleviated symptoms of severe dry eye disease, improving tear production and ocular comfort. Frontiers
❤️ Cardiovascular and Metabolic Benefits
Bilberries contribute to heart health and metabolic balance through several mechanisms:
- Blood Sugar Regulation: Animal studies have demonstrated that bilberry extract can lower blood glucose levels and enhance insulin sensitivity, suggesting potential benefits for managing type 2 diabetes. Mount Sinai Health System+1NCBI+1
- Lipid Profile Improvement: Clinical trials have shown that bilberry supplementation can reduce LDL cholesterol and triglyceride levels, contributing to a healthier lipid profile.
- Anti-Inflammatory Effects: Bilberries possess anti-inflammatory properties by modulating cytokine production, which may help reduce chronic inflammation associated with cardiovascular diseases. MDPI
🌿 Introducing Bilberry Forte by Standard Process
For those seeking a convenient and potent bilberry supplement, Bilberry Forte by Standard Process offers a high-quality option. Each capsule contains a concentrated extract equivalent to 12 grams of fresh bilberries, standardized to provide 39.9 mg of anthocyanosides.
Key Benefits:
- Eye Health: Supports visual acuity and reduces eye strain.Mount Sinai Health System+2Frontiers+2Functional Food Center+2
- Antioxidant Support: Combats oxidative stress throughout the body.
- Vascular Integrity: Promotes healthy blood vessels and circulation.
Usage: Take one capsule twice daily, or as directed by your healthcare professional.
Experience the comprehensive health benefits of bilberries with Bilberry Forte. Order now and take a step towards better health.
📚 References
- Ogawa, K., Tsuruma, K., Tanaka, Y., & Shimazawa, M. (2014). Bilberry extract improves visual fatigue induced by viewing a visual display terminal: A randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study. Functional Foods in Health and Disease, 4(8), 395–406. https://ffhdj.com/index.php/ffhd/article/view/782
- Shibata, Y., Kawakita, T., Ogawa, Y., et al. (2023). Bilberry and fish oil supplementation improves dry eye symptoms: A randomized, double-blind clinical trial. Frontiers in Nutrition, 10, Article 1061818. https://doi.org/10.3389/fnut.2023.1061818
- Azadbakht, L., Atabak, S., & Esmaillzadeh, A. (2008). Beneficial effects of a dietary approach to stop hypertension (DASH)-style diet on cardiovascular risk factors in patients with type 2 diabetes: A randomized crossover clinical trial. Journal of the American College of Cardiology, 51(14), 1417–1421. https://doi.org/10.1016/S0735-1097(16)30540-X
- Kolehmainen, M., Mykkänen, O., Kirjavainen, P., et al. (2012). Bilberries reduce low-grade inflammation in individuals with features of metabolic syndrome. Molecular and Cellular Biochemistry, 44(10), 313–322. https://www.mdpi.com/1467-3045/44/10/313
- Liobikas, J., Majienė, D., Trumbeckaitė, S., et al. (2022). Antidiabetic and antioxidant effects of bilberry extract in experimental studies. Frontiers in Pharmacology, 13, Article 927735. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC9277355/
