Bilberries (Vaccinium myrtillus) are small, blue berries native to Northern Europe.
Here are some of its amazing health benefits:
- Rich in nutrients
Like most berries, bilberries are a nutrient-rich fruit.
Similarly, to blueberries, they likely contain around 85% water, as well as good amounts of manganese and vitamins C and K.
- Packed with beneficial plant compounds
Bilberries are rich in antioxidants, which are beneficial plant compounds that help protect your body against damage and disease.
Bilberries contain phenolic acids and are an especially good source of anthocyanins, the powerful flavonoid antioxidant that gives red, purple, and blue fruits and vegetables their characteristic colour.
- May improve vision
Bilberries are most popular for their purported ability to improve vision, particularly night vision.
- May reduce inflammation
Bilberries may help fight inflammation, which is believed to be the root cause of many diseases.
- May lower blood sugar levels
Bilberries are a popular herbal remedy used to lower blood sugar levels in people with type 2 diabetes.
- May improve heart health
Bilberries may help lower blood pressure, reduce LDL (bad) cholesterol, increase HDL (good) cholesterol, and protect you from blood clots, thus improving your heart health. Nevertheless, more human studies are needed.
Other potential benefits
Bilberries may improve learning and memory in older adults, fight off certain bacteria, and reduce symptoms of ulcerative colitis.
How to add bilberries to your diet
There are many ways to add bilberries to your diet.
They have a similar yet slightly more intense flavour than blueberries. You can eat them fresh or dried, on their own, or as part of any recipe that might include blueberries.
Bilberries make a great addition to pancakes, muffins, and other baked goods. You can also include them in smoothies. YUM
