Blueberries are the berries from the Vaccinium angustifolium plant, indigenous to North America and Europe. People have enjoyed blueberries for centuries for their flavour. Growing research also supports their medicinal potential. Many people now consider blueberry powder a nutrient-rich superfood.

What is Blueberry Powder?

Manufacturers make blueberry powder by freeze-drying blueberries and grinding them into a fine powder.

Found in most health stores, this supplement is a convenient way to enjoy the health benefits of blueberries. 

Blueberries are much more concentrated in powdered form. One tablespoon of Blueberry powder equals ½ cup of fresh blueberries. As such it's more cost-effective to buy this supplement than fresh berries. And the shelf life is much longer.

What Are The Health Benefits of Blueberry Powder Supplements?

This supplement is high in antioxidants, Vitamin C, Vitamin K and fibre. Many of the health benefits are related to the purple pigment which is high in antioxidants

Its health benefits include cardiovascular health, brain health, blood sugar regulation and urinary tract infections. 

Because blueberry powder is also low on the Glycemic index and is a source of fibre, it's a great way to help balance blood sugar in cases of Diabetes, high blood glucose and insulin resistance.

One of the most popular reasons to use this supplement is it helps with brain function – specifically, with age-related memory loss and dementia. Both human and animal studies also show it helps improve memory, coordination, and learning.

How Does Blueberry Powder Work In The Body?

ORAC – Oxygen Radical Absorbance Capacity is a scale measuring the ability of a food or nutrient to absorb and neutralize oxidative damaging free radicals. Blueberry powder ranks high on this scale making it beneficial to cognitive and vascular health. By binding and neutralizing chemicals, toxins and oxidized fats, it can protect your heart, brain and arterial system and reduce the formation of plaques.

Flavonoids, especially anthocyanins may inhibit unhealthy colon cell growth. However, more human research is needed. It's these anthocyanins that give Blueberry powder its indigo-purple colour. Laboratory studies suggest that anthocyanins may help prevent degenerative diseases, including unhealthy cell growth, heart disease, stroke, and memory loss. Anthocyanins also have been shown in laboratory studies to inhibit the growth of unhealthy cell growth in the colon.

This supplement is high in Vitamin C. Vitamin C also acts as an antioxidant protecting your heart health. Vitamin C is also involved with tissue healing, and immune function, and supports hormone health.

Studies show Blueberry powder may even lower blood pressure. Blueberries also contain stilbenes. Research suggests these compounds may help lower LDL ("bad") cholesterol levels. So Blueberry powder is an overall great addition to your diet for cardiovascular health.

Another great reason to take Blueberry powder is it helps prevent urinary tract infections. Similar to cranberry, Blueberry powder contains flavonoids that prevent the binding of infectious bacteria to your urinary tract, thereby inhibiting bacterial growth. Plus Blueberry powder lowers blood sugar and can feed these infection-causing organisms.

How To Use This Supplement

This supplement is easy and convenient to use. Simply add it to shakes, tea, almond milk, hot cereal, baked goods, yogurt or a glass of juice or water. Follow dosing directions on the label or as recommended by your health care practitioner. 

Those who are allergic to blueberries should not take these supplements. To ensure you purchase a high-quality product that's made with clean and potent ingredients, speak to a knowledgeable team member at your preferred natural health food store.