Table of ContentsView AllTable of ContentsUsesSide EffectsPrecautionsDosageToxicityInteractionsHow to StoreSimilar SupplementsFrequently Asked QuestionsSources & What to Look For
Table of ContentsView All
View All
Table of Contents
Uses
Side Effects
Precautions
Dosage
Toxicity
Interactions
How to Store
Similar Supplements
Frequently Asked Questions
Sources & What to Look For
Blueberry extract is a rich source of nutrients,antioxidants, and beneficial compounds such as the flavonolquercetinandanthocyanins. These compounds are thought to reduceinflammationand protect against conditions like heart disease and cancer.
Although its benefits are unproven, this natural extract is often recommended for conditions such asage-related macular degeneration(AMD), Alzheimer’s disease,diabetes,high blood pressure, andhigh cholesterol.
In the United States, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) does not regulate supplements the way it regulates prescription drugs. That means some supplement products may not contain what the label says. Whenchoosing a supplement, look for independently tested products and consult a healthcare provider, registered dietitian nutritionist (RD or RDN), or pharmacist.
Supplement FactsActive ingredient(s): BlueberryAlternate name(s):VacciniumangustifoliumplantSuggested dose:No standard recommended doseSafety considerations: Not much data on safety; interacts with some medications
Supplement Facts
Active ingredient(s): BlueberryAlternate name(s):VacciniumangustifoliumplantSuggested dose:No standard recommended doseSafety considerations: Not much data on safety; interacts with some medications
Uses of Blueberry Extract
Although research on the health effects of blueberry extract is very limited, some studies suggest thatblueberriesmay offer certain potential benefits.
Research on the potential benefits of blueberries has focused on fresh blueberries, blueberry powders, and blueberry juice or juice concentrate. The concentrated juice is used to form a blueberry extract that can then be sold in pill or capsule form. Blueberry powder is made from freeze-dried blueberries.
Preliminary research has found:
When evaluating the preliminary research, it is important to note that the studies are small, and interventions often include blueberry extract in products with several other ingredients. Additionally, some supplement companies may apply research findings on fresh blueberries or anthocyanins from other sources to market blueberry extract benefits.
There is not enough evidence to support any uses for blueberry extract at this time.
What Are the Side Effects of Blueberry Extract?
Little is known about the safety of long-term use of blueberry extract supplements.Blueberry is safe to consume in the amounts found naturally in food. However, it is unclear how much blueberry extract is safe to take.
Whole blueberries, blueberry juice, and blueberry powder are typically well-tolerated, with few side effects. However, drinks that contain freeze-dried blueberries have been reported to cause constipation, diarrhea, nausea or vomiting in some people. It is not known if blueberry leaf is safe.
Verywell / Anastasia Tretiak
Eating blueberries is fine for most people who are pregnant or breastfeeding, but there is no data on the safety of blueberry extract. Therefore, the extract is not recommended for pregnant and lactating individuals.
Blueberry extract may have a glucose-lowering effect and interfere with glucose control during surgery. It is recommended to avoid blueberry extract at least two weeks before a scheduled surgery, ashypoglycemia(low blood sugar) may occur.
People with glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase deficiency (G6PD) may have difficulty digesting blueberries. If you have this disorder, you should discuss with your care provider before adding blueberry extract to your regimen.
Since blueberry extract may lower blood sugar levels, those taking diabetes medications should use caution when using this supplement.
Dosage: How Much Blueberry Extract Should I Take?
Always speak with a healthcare provider before taking a supplement to ensure that the supplement and dosage are appropriate for your individual needs.
There is no standard dose for blueberry extract. More research is needed before determining a safe range. Should you decide to take blueberry extract supplements, follow the instructions on the supplement label.
What Happens If I Take Too Much Blueberry Extract?
There is insufficient data to suggest any ill effects if you consume too much blueberry extract.
Blueberry extract may interact with certain medications.
Taking blueberry extract with antidiabetic medications may increase the risk of hypoglycemia as both could work to lower glucose levels.Additionally, be mindful of taking it other supplements that may also lower blood sugar, such as:
While not likely a major concern, blueberry juice may reduce the time it takes for the body to break down and eliminate some medications, such as buspirone and flurbiprofen.
How to Store Blueberry Extract
It is best to follow the manufacturer’s guidelines for storing blueberry extract. Always store medications and supplements out of the sight and reach of children and pets.
All forms of blueberry supplementation mustn’t be treated equally. Blueberries, blueberry powder, and blueberry juice extract may not have the same intended effect. They also may have different dosing suggestions.
Additionally, do not confuse blueberry andbilberry. European blueberries are often, in fact, bilberry.
Frequently Asked QuestionsThere is not enough data to suggest that a blueberry extract is better or even provides equal nourishment as whole blueberries would.Both whole blueberries and blueberry extract are an abundant source of vitamins and minerals. Depending on the formulation, blueberry extract supplements may contain a higher dose of nutrients than the whole fruit, but whether that is a good thing once it is consumed is not known.Alternatively,fiberis removed during the extraction process. Blueberries are considered a good source of fiber, with 3.6 grams in a 1 cup serving. This accounts for 14% of the recommended daily intake of fiber based on a 2,000-calorie-a-day diet.If your diet lacks fiber, whole blueberries may be a better choice for you.There is not enough research to suggest benefit from blueberry extract. Research on blueberries and cognitive function has used fresh blueberries, blueberry powder, or blueberry juice concentrate but not blueberry extract.In a study published inFood & Functionin 2017, researchers examined the cognitive effects of consuming either freeze-dried blueberry powder or a placebo (an ineffective substance) on a group of children between the ages of 7 and 10.Three hours after consuming the blueberry powder, participants were given a cognitive task. Participants who had taken the blueberry powder completed the task significantly faster than those in the control group.Consuming freeze-dried blueberry may also improve some aspects of cognitive function in adults. In a study published in theEuropean Journal of Nutrition, for instance, people between age 60 and 75 consumed either freeze-dried blueberry or a placebo for 90 days.Participants completed tests on cognition, balance, and gait at the beginning and again at days 45 and 90.While both of these studies suggest benefit from freeze-dried blueberry, it should be noted this is not the same as blueberry extract.There is not enough data to support recommending blueberry extract for people with diabetes. Preliminary studies suggest that blueberries may improve insulin resistance and glucose tolerance.A report published inCritical Reviews in Food Science and Nutritionin 2018 looked at blueberry extract andglucose control in people with diabetes. Researchers reviewed previously published clinical trials on blueberry or cranberry consumption on type 2 diabetes glycemic control.In their review, they found that using blueberry extract or powder supplementation—providing 9.1 or 9.8 milligrams (mg) of anthocyanins, respectively—for eight to 12 weeks had a beneficial effect on glucose control in people withtype 2 diabetes.While this study is promising, it also preliminary, and more high-quality clinical trials are needed before routinely recommending these supplements for people with diabetes.
There is not enough data to suggest that a blueberry extract is better or even provides equal nourishment as whole blueberries would.Both whole blueberries and blueberry extract are an abundant source of vitamins and minerals. Depending on the formulation, blueberry extract supplements may contain a higher dose of nutrients than the whole fruit, but whether that is a good thing once it is consumed is not known.Alternatively,fiberis removed during the extraction process. Blueberries are considered a good source of fiber, with 3.6 grams in a 1 cup serving. This accounts for 14% of the recommended daily intake of fiber based on a 2,000-calorie-a-day diet.If your diet lacks fiber, whole blueberries may be a better choice for you.
There is not enough data to suggest that a blueberry extract is better or even provides equal nourishment as whole blueberries would.
Both whole blueberries and blueberry extract are an abundant source of vitamins and minerals. Depending on the formulation, blueberry extract supplements may contain a higher dose of nutrients than the whole fruit, but whether that is a good thing once it is consumed is not known.
Alternatively,fiberis removed during the extraction process. Blueberries are considered a good source of fiber, with 3.6 grams in a 1 cup serving. This accounts for 14% of the recommended daily intake of fiber based on a 2,000-calorie-a-day diet.If your diet lacks fiber, whole blueberries may be a better choice for you.
There is not enough research to suggest benefit from blueberry extract. Research on blueberries and cognitive function has used fresh blueberries, blueberry powder, or blueberry juice concentrate but not blueberry extract.In a study published inFood & Functionin 2017, researchers examined the cognitive effects of consuming either freeze-dried blueberry powder or a placebo (an ineffective substance) on a group of children between the ages of 7 and 10.Three hours after consuming the blueberry powder, participants were given a cognitive task. Participants who had taken the blueberry powder completed the task significantly faster than those in the control group.Consuming freeze-dried blueberry may also improve some aspects of cognitive function in adults. In a study published in theEuropean Journal of Nutrition, for instance, people between age 60 and 75 consumed either freeze-dried blueberry or a placebo for 90 days.Participants completed tests on cognition, balance, and gait at the beginning and again at days 45 and 90.While both of these studies suggest benefit from freeze-dried blueberry, it should be noted this is not the same as blueberry extract.
There is not enough research to suggest benefit from blueberry extract. Research on blueberries and cognitive function has used fresh blueberries, blueberry powder, or blueberry juice concentrate but not blueberry extract.
In a study published inFood & Functionin 2017, researchers examined the cognitive effects of consuming either freeze-dried blueberry powder or a placebo (an ineffective substance) on a group of children between the ages of 7 and 10.
Three hours after consuming the blueberry powder, participants were given a cognitive task. Participants who had taken the blueberry powder completed the task significantly faster than those in the control group.
Consuming freeze-dried blueberry may also improve some aspects of cognitive function in adults. In a study published in theEuropean Journal of Nutrition, for instance, people between age 60 and 75 consumed either freeze-dried blueberry or a placebo for 90 days.Participants completed tests on cognition, balance, and gait at the beginning and again at days 45 and 90.
While both of these studies suggest benefit from freeze-dried blueberry, it should be noted this is not the same as blueberry extract.
There is not enough data to support recommending blueberry extract for people with diabetes. Preliminary studies suggest that blueberries may improve insulin resistance and glucose tolerance.A report published inCritical Reviews in Food Science and Nutritionin 2018 looked at blueberry extract andglucose control in people with diabetes. Researchers reviewed previously published clinical trials on blueberry or cranberry consumption on type 2 diabetes glycemic control.In their review, they found that using blueberry extract or powder supplementation—providing 9.1 or 9.8 milligrams (mg) of anthocyanins, respectively—for eight to 12 weeks had a beneficial effect on glucose control in people withtype 2 diabetes.While this study is promising, it also preliminary, and more high-quality clinical trials are needed before routinely recommending these supplements for people with diabetes.
There is not enough data to support recommending blueberry extract for people with diabetes. Preliminary studies suggest that blueberries may improve insulin resistance and glucose tolerance.
A report published inCritical Reviews in Food Science and Nutritionin 2018 looked at blueberry extract andglucose control in people with diabetes. Researchers reviewed previously published clinical trials on blueberry or cranberry consumption on type 2 diabetes glycemic control.
In their review, they found that using blueberry extract or powder supplementation—providing 9.1 or 9.8 milligrams (mg) of anthocyanins, respectively—for eight to 12 weeks had a beneficial effect on glucose control in people withtype 2 diabetes.
While this study is promising, it also preliminary, and more high-quality clinical trials are needed before routinely recommending these supplements for people with diabetes.
Sources of Blueberry Extract & What to Look For
Blueberry extract is sourced from cultivated highbush blueberries or the smaller wild lowbush blueberries. Blueberry extract comes in capsule, tincture, powder, and water-soluble extract forms. It is available for purchase at natural-foods stores, drugstores, and online.
Note that blueberry extract is not the same as blueberry leaf extract. Blueberry extract is made from the fruit of the blueberry, while the leaf extract is made from the leaves of the blueberry bush. The two have some overlapping benefits, but they are not interchangeable.
The supplement label should clarify if the extract is from fruit or leaf. Be sure to check, so you purchase what you intend to. Also make sure that you read the entire ingredients list. Many manufacturers add other vitamins, nutrients, or herbal ingredients to blueberry extract.
In addition, check the label for a trusted, independent testing seal, such as USP (U.S. Pharmacopeia), NSF International, or ConsumerLab. This does not guarantee a product’s effectiveness, but it does certify that the ingredients listed on the label are what you are getting.
Summary
Blueberries have been promoted as a superfood for years due to their nutrient profile. In addition to whole blueberries, parts of the blueberry plant are now processed into supplements and marketed for multiple conditions. While it is too soon to say conclusively that blueberry extract can prevent or treat any medical condition, the research shows that whole blueberries are a powerhouse of nutrients, including vitamins, minerals, and important antioxidants.
If you are considering supplementing with blueberry extract, talk with your healthcare provider to determine if it is right for you.
11 SourcesVerywell Health uses only high-quality sources, including peer-reviewed studies, to support the facts within our articles. Read oureditorial processto learn more about how we fact-check and keep our content accurate, reliable, and trustworthy.Ma L, Sun Z, Zeng Y, Luo M, Yang J.Molecular mechanism and health role of functional ingredients in blueberry for chronic disease in human beings.Int J Mol Sci. 2018;19(9). doi:10.3390/ijms19092785Zhu Y, Sun J, Lu W, et al.Effects of blueberry supplementation on blood pressure: a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized clinical trials.J Hum Hypertens. 2017;31(3):165-171. doi:10.1038/jhh.2016.70Krikorian R, Shidler MD, Nash TA, et al.Blueberry supplementation improves memory in older adults.J Agric Food Chem. 2010;58(7):3996-4000. doi:10.1021/jf9029332MedlinePlus.Blueberry.Anders JPV, Neltner TJ, Smith RW, et al.The effects of phosphocreatine disodium salts plus blueberry extract supplementation on muscular strength, power, and endurance.J Int Soc Sports Nutr. 2021;18(1):60. Published 2021 Sep 9. doi:10.1186/s12970-021-00456-yWhyte AR, Cheng N, Fromentin E, Williams CM.A randomized, double-blinded, placebo-controlled study to compare the safety and efficacy of low dose enhanced wild blueberry powder and wild blueberry extract (ThinkBlue™) in maintenance of episodic and working memory in older adults.Nutrients. 2018;10(6):660. doi:10.3390/nu10060660Rocha DMUP, Caldas APS, da Silva BP, Hermsdorff HHM, Alfenas RCG.Effects of blueberry and cranberry consumption on type 2 diabetes glycemic control: a systematic review.Crit Rev Food Sci Nutr. 2018;59(11):1816-1828. doi:10.1080/10408398.2018.1430019Stull AJ, Cash KC, Champagne CM, et al.Blueberries improve endothelial function, but not blood pressure, in adults with metabolic syndrome: a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical trial.Nutrients. 2015 ;7(6):4107-23. doi:10.3390/nu7064107Nutrition Value.Blueberries, raw.Whyte AR, Schafer G, Williams CM.The effect of cognitive demand on performance of an executive function task following wild blueberry supplementation in 7 to 10 years old children.Food Funct. 2017;8(11):4129-4138. doi:10.1039/c7fo00832eMiller MG, Hamilton DA, Joseph JA, Shukitt-Hale B.Dietary blueberry improves cognition among older adults in a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial.Eur J Nutr. 2017. 57(3):1169-1180. doi:10.1007/s00394-017-1400-8.
11 Sources
Verywell Health uses only high-quality sources, including peer-reviewed studies, to support the facts within our articles. Read oureditorial processto learn more about how we fact-check and keep our content accurate, reliable, and trustworthy.Ma L, Sun Z, Zeng Y, Luo M, Yang J.Molecular mechanism and health role of functional ingredients in blueberry for chronic disease in human beings.Int J Mol Sci. 2018;19(9). doi:10.3390/ijms19092785Zhu Y, Sun J, Lu W, et al.Effects of blueberry supplementation on blood pressure: a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized clinical trials.J Hum Hypertens. 2017;31(3):165-171. doi:10.1038/jhh.2016.70Krikorian R, Shidler MD, Nash TA, et al.Blueberry supplementation improves memory in older adults.J Agric Food Chem. 2010;58(7):3996-4000. doi:10.1021/jf9029332MedlinePlus.Blueberry.Anders JPV, Neltner TJ, Smith RW, et al.The effects of phosphocreatine disodium salts plus blueberry extract supplementation on muscular strength, power, and endurance.J Int Soc Sports Nutr. 2021;18(1):60. Published 2021 Sep 9. doi:10.1186/s12970-021-00456-yWhyte AR, Cheng N, Fromentin E, Williams CM.A randomized, double-blinded, placebo-controlled study to compare the safety and efficacy of low dose enhanced wild blueberry powder and wild blueberry extract (ThinkBlue™) in maintenance of episodic and working memory in older adults.Nutrients. 2018;10(6):660. doi:10.3390/nu10060660Rocha DMUP, Caldas APS, da Silva BP, Hermsdorff HHM, Alfenas RCG.Effects of blueberry and cranberry consumption on type 2 diabetes glycemic control: a systematic review.Crit Rev Food Sci Nutr. 2018;59(11):1816-1828. doi:10.1080/10408398.2018.1430019Stull AJ, Cash KC, Champagne CM, et al.Blueberries improve endothelial function, but not blood pressure, in adults with metabolic syndrome: a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical trial.Nutrients. 2015 ;7(6):4107-23. doi:10.3390/nu7064107Nutrition Value.Blueberries, raw.Whyte AR, Schafer G, Williams CM.The effect of cognitive demand on performance of an executive function task following wild blueberry supplementation in 7 to 10 years old children.Food Funct. 2017;8(11):4129-4138. doi:10.1039/c7fo00832eMiller MG, Hamilton DA, Joseph JA, Shukitt-Hale B.Dietary blueberry improves cognition among older adults in a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial.Eur J Nutr. 2017. 57(3):1169-1180. doi:10.1007/s00394-017-1400-8.
Verywell Health uses only high-quality sources, including peer-reviewed studies, to support the facts within our articles. Read oureditorial processto learn more about how we fact-check and keep our content accurate, reliable, and trustworthy.
Ma L, Sun Z, Zeng Y, Luo M, Yang J.Molecular mechanism and health role of functional ingredients in blueberry for chronic disease in human beings.Int J Mol Sci. 2018;19(9). doi:10.3390/ijms19092785Zhu Y, Sun J, Lu W, et al.Effects of blueberry supplementation on blood pressure: a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized clinical trials.J Hum Hypertens. 2017;31(3):165-171. doi:10.1038/jhh.2016.70Krikorian R, Shidler MD, Nash TA, et al.Blueberry supplementation improves memory in older adults.J Agric Food Chem. 2010;58(7):3996-4000. doi:10.1021/jf9029332MedlinePlus.Blueberry.Anders JPV, Neltner TJ, Smith RW, et al.The effects of phosphocreatine disodium salts plus blueberry extract supplementation on muscular strength, power, and endurance.J Int Soc Sports Nutr. 2021;18(1):60. Published 2021 Sep 9. doi:10.1186/s12970-021-00456-yWhyte AR, Cheng N, Fromentin E, Williams CM.A randomized, double-blinded, placebo-controlled study to compare the safety and efficacy of low dose enhanced wild blueberry powder and wild blueberry extract (ThinkBlue™) in maintenance of episodic and working memory in older adults.Nutrients. 2018;10(6):660. doi:10.3390/nu10060660Rocha DMUP, Caldas APS, da Silva BP, Hermsdorff HHM, Alfenas RCG.Effects of blueberry and cranberry consumption on type 2 diabetes glycemic control: a systematic review.Crit Rev Food Sci Nutr. 2018;59(11):1816-1828. doi:10.1080/10408398.2018.1430019Stull AJ, Cash KC, Champagne CM, et al.Blueberries improve endothelial function, but not blood pressure, in adults with metabolic syndrome: a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical trial.Nutrients. 2015 ;7(6):4107-23. doi:10.3390/nu7064107Nutrition Value.Blueberries, raw.Whyte AR, Schafer G, Williams CM.The effect of cognitive demand on performance of an executive function task following wild blueberry supplementation in 7 to 10 years old children.Food Funct. 2017;8(11):4129-4138. doi:10.1039/c7fo00832eMiller MG, Hamilton DA, Joseph JA, Shukitt-Hale B.Dietary blueberry improves cognition among older adults in a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial.Eur J Nutr. 2017. 57(3):1169-1180. doi:10.1007/s00394-017-1400-8.
Ma L, Sun Z, Zeng Y, Luo M, Yang J.Molecular mechanism and health role of functional ingredients in blueberry for chronic disease in human beings.Int J Mol Sci. 2018;19(9). doi:10.3390/ijms19092785
Zhu Y, Sun J, Lu W, et al.Effects of blueberry supplementation on blood pressure: a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized clinical trials.J Hum Hypertens. 2017;31(3):165-171. doi:10.1038/jhh.2016.70
Krikorian R, Shidler MD, Nash TA, et al.Blueberry supplementation improves memory in older adults.J Agric Food Chem. 2010;58(7):3996-4000. doi:10.1021/jf9029332
MedlinePlus.Blueberry.
Anders JPV, Neltner TJ, Smith RW, et al.The effects of phosphocreatine disodium salts plus blueberry extract supplementation on muscular strength, power, and endurance.J Int Soc Sports Nutr. 2021;18(1):60. Published 2021 Sep 9. doi:10.1186/s12970-021-00456-y
Whyte AR, Cheng N, Fromentin E, Williams CM.A randomized, double-blinded, placebo-controlled study to compare the safety and efficacy of low dose enhanced wild blueberry powder and wild blueberry extract (ThinkBlue™) in maintenance of episodic and working memory in older adults.Nutrients. 2018;10(6):660. doi:10.3390/nu10060660
Rocha DMUP, Caldas APS, da Silva BP, Hermsdorff HHM, Alfenas RCG.Effects of blueberry and cranberry consumption on type 2 diabetes glycemic control: a systematic review.Crit Rev Food Sci Nutr. 2018;59(11):1816-1828. doi:10.1080/10408398.2018.1430019
Stull AJ, Cash KC, Champagne CM, et al.Blueberries improve endothelial function, but not blood pressure, in adults with metabolic syndrome: a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical trial.Nutrients. 2015 ;7(6):4107-23. doi:10.3390/nu7064107
Nutrition Value.Blueberries, raw.
Whyte AR, Schafer G, Williams CM.The effect of cognitive demand on performance of an executive function task following wild blueberry supplementation in 7 to 10 years old children.Food Funct. 2017;8(11):4129-4138. doi:10.1039/c7fo00832e
Miller MG, Hamilton DA, Joseph JA, Shukitt-Hale B.Dietary blueberry improves cognition among older adults in a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial.Eur J Nutr. 2017. 57(3):1169-1180. doi:10.1007/s00394-017-1400-8.
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