The bilberry is a close relative of the blueberry and cranberry and is purported to have many health benefits. Bilberries are also known as European blueberries, whortleberries and huckleberries and can be eaten fresh or taken as a dietary supplement. Many of the health claims associated with bilberries have not been scientifically proved. Fruit from the bilberry plant can be eaten fresh, while leaves can be made into extracts or teas.
History
Bilberry has a long history in European medicine. The National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine, NCCAM, says bilberry was historically used to treat diarrhea and scurvy. Bilberry is believed to benefit diarrhea by reducing intestinal inflammation.
Nutrition Facts
According to the Worldwide Gourmet, 100 g of bilberries have 60 calories, 14 g of carbohydrates, 0.4 g of fat and 0.7 g of protein. The University of Maryland Medical Center, or UMMC, says bilberries are a good source of vitamin C. Vitamin C is an essential water-soluble vitamin that supports immunity and the growth and repair of all body tissues.
Health Claims
According to the Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center, or MSKCC, bilberries are claimed to benefit cancer prevention, cataracts, circulatory disorders, diabetic vision problems, diarrhea, glaucoma, hemorrhoids, macular degeneration, mucositis, varicose veins and visual acuity. The UMMC says bilberries contain antioxidants. Antioxidants protect the body by destroying harmful substances that damage the body and contribute to heart disease and cancer. The NCCAM says the leaves of the bilberry plant are used to treat diabetes.
Anthocyanins
Anthocyanins are one of the key components in bilberries thought to benefit health. According to the Linus Pauling Institute, anthocyanins are pigments that give fruits, vegetables, grains and flowers their blue, purple and red colors. The UMMC and MSKCC say anthocyanins have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties and support strong blood vessels, good circulation and prevention of blood clots. Anthocyanins also increase the production of rhodopsin, a pigment in the eye that supports night vision and helps the eyes adapt to changes in light.
Considerations
The NCCAM says clinical studies have not proved that bilberry improves night vision and there is no scientific evidence that supports the use of bilberry for any health condition. There are no adverse reactions associated with fresh bilberry or bilberry supplements. However, the long-term safety or side effects of bilberry have not been extensively researched. The NCCAM warns that high doses or prolonged use of bilberry leaves or leaf extracts may not be safe due to possible toxic side effects.
According to the UMMC, bilberry supplements may increase the risk of bleeding when taken with blood-thinning medications like Coumadin or aspirin. Bilberry supplements are not recommended for diabetics because it may lower blood sugar and increase the strength of blood sugar-lowering medications or insulin, which can lead to hypoglycemia, a serious diabetic complication. Consumers should be aware that dietary supplements are not regulated by the Food and Drug Administration and may differ in quality based on the brand.
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