There’s no way around that. Berries are good for you. In fact, their potential benefits are captured in supplemental form, which is very good. Instead of receiving confused looks from the overwhelming farmer market secretary, you can head to pharmacies and supplement stores for unusual favorites like Açaí, Elderberry and even Bilberry!
Before you get into the benefits of Bilberry, let’s cover the basics.
What is bilberry?
Bilberries, also known as European blueberries or Hawtleberries, contain anthocyanins and phenolic acids, and are recognized for most of their health benefits. The exterior resembles American blueberries, a close relative.
What are anthocyanins?
Anthocyanins are considered flavonoids. Flavonoids are natural pigments that give plant foods red, blue or purple shades, offering a variety of nutritional benefits. They are common in fruits, vegetables and grains.
Bilberries have a higher concentration of anthocyanins when compared to other berries such as strawberries, cranberries, sour cherries and raspberries.
The anthocyanin content of fresh bilberries ranges from 300 to 700 mg per 100 g of fruit.
What is phenolic acid?
Phenolic acid is the main micronutrient produced by plants and is present in the fruits and leaves of bilberry.
These acids contain antioxidant-like compounds (compounds that protect cells from oxidative stress) that may provide health benefits that help support the health of your cells.
What are the benefits of taking bilberry supplements?
Barbie Tucker, RD, LD, M.Ed, with wonderful and nutritious solutions from Atlanta-Area Registered Dietitian Johane Filemon MS, RDN, LD, CLT. To get a breakdown of the benefits of bilberries and how to take advantage of them.
Phytonutrients
“Every plant and herb has several health benefits, including the addition of fiber, protein, vitamins and minerals,” Tucker says. “But of the many benefits, bilberry is most famous for its phytonutrients.”
Eye health
Additionally, a study of 281 Japanese office workers found that people who received 480 mg of bilberry supplement per day for eight weeks experienced reduced eye fatigue caused by exposure to video display devices. I did.
Is there a risk of taking bilberry supplements?
According to the National Institutes of Health, bilberries are considered safe to consume the whole thing. Bilberry fruit extracts are safely used in studies of up to 160 mg per day for six months, but little is known about their use during pregnancy or breastfeeding. Always check with your doctor for additional information regarding side effects.
Bilberry nutrition
Bilberries join blueberries, cranberries, lingonberries and humckleberries as fruits of the shrub vaccine genus. American cousin, blueberry bilberries contain healthy nutrients such as vitamin C, vitamin K and manganese.
Serving prices vary for Bilberry, but include the following:
20-60 g Dried Berries 160-480 mg Powder Extract
Both the registered nutritionists we consulted reiterated the importance of eating 8-12 glass of fruits and vegetables every day.
Filemon points out that reducing saturated fat intake and increasing consumption of high-fiber foods like berries has health implications.
Tucker adds: “Our whole body does not depend on one or two nutrients for optimal health. Yes, our eyes may benefit from adding bilberries to our diet But even more importantly, we need a nutrient support system to stay healthy throughout our lifetimes.”
Where is Bilberry?
Finding fresh bilberries can be a bit of a challenge as they grow mainly in European and Asian hills. However, you can find bilberry supplements online at local health food stores, as well as many mainstream pharmacies and supermarkets.
Pro tips
Consider these questions whenever you buy supplements.
How are supplements produced? Is it treated without any harmful solvents or other additives? Do they claim that the sound is too good?
Please note that supplement companies must adhere to industry standards for claims regulated by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration.
Buy Bilberry products online
Below are some of the popular bilberry supplement brands that you can buy online.
1. Puritan Pride, Bilberry Fruit Extract, 1,000 mg Softgel
2. Nutricost Bilberry Capsules 1200mg
3. Buddha Tea, Bilberry Leaf
*These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent disease.
