Bilberry

Bilberry Antioxidant Benefits

Did you know that bilberries (Vaccinium myrtillus) are also known as European blueberries? Indeed, they are closely related to many berries, most notably blueberries, cranberries, and huckleberries. However, bilberries have a much higher anthocyanin content, usually 25 to 36 %, than most other types of berries, so offer robust antioxidant properties. In fact, you’d need to consume an average of 60g of blueberries each and every day to get the equivalent amount of antioxidant-rich anthocyanins. This is why bilberries are regarded as one of the most potent superfoods. Bilberries are also rich in vitamins A, C, & E, which are all antioxidants that have been shown to support tissues in the eye.

Research has shown that bilberries increase capillary resistance and decrease capillary permeability inside the body. Supplementation has also been shown to decrease oxidative damage in cells, including light-induced retinal damage. As such, bilberry extract is an effective and scientifically supported approach to promoting optimal eye health and maintaining healthy vision across the lifespan. Supplementation has been extensively studied for its potential in the treatment of cataracts, age-related macular degeneration, diabetic retinopathy, night blindness, and myopia, as well as in eye conditions associated with hypertension and atherosclerosis.

Bilberry Benefits

• Helps Balance Blood Sugar
• Optimizes Circulation
• Promotes Eye Health & Optimal Vision
• Provides Powerful Antioxidant Protection

Who Needs Bilberry?

bilberry extract offers powerful antioxidant properties to the body's tissues, and especially to the eyes. Supplementation has been recommended to relieve mucus membrane inflammation for a variety of eye disorders including; poor night vision, eyestrain, and myopia, as well as supports type 2 diabetes, sugar-metabolism problems, oxidative stress, cardiovascular disease, and neurocognitive disorders, as well as offers a range of other age-related conditions. Because bilberry extract exerts a soothing effect on mucus membranes, it is also frequently recommended to treat diarrhea, UTIs, oral ulcers, and sore throat.

Bilberry Supplements

Potencies

Most of these supplements are presented in 60 to 120 mg per dose. Beyond potency; however, when selecting your supplement, it's critically important to pay attention to standardization, that is, the actual percentage of anthocyanins being provided per dose. A quality bilberry supplement should supply between 25 to 36 % anthocyanins.

Forms

These berries can be purchased fresh, frozen, or dried, and are also widely available in juice form, as well as in, jams and preserves. Bilberry extract is also offered in tea form and as a supplement.

Formats

Bilberry extract can be purchased in capsules, tablets, as well as in softgels and liquid tincture form.

Final Thoughts

This nutrient is often combined with other nutrients, antioxidants, and herbs that support optimal Eye Health, for synergistic benefits. Bilberry extract may or may not be appropriate while pregnant and nursing, in these instances, it is important to consult your health care practitioner before starting to take a bilberry supplement.

Because bilberry has a marked effect on blood sugar metabolism, those with glycemic disorders, as well as anyone on blood sugar metabolism medications including insulin, should have their glycemia monitored regularly so the dose can be adjusted accordingly, as needed.