Extract Of Wild Blueberry
Also known as: Wild blueberry extract, WBE, Vaccinium angustifolium
Overview
Wild blueberry extract (WBE) is a botanical supplement derived from the fruit of Vaccinium angustifolium, commonly known as the wild blueberry. It is exceptionally rich in anthocyanins and other polyphenolic compounds, which are responsible for its potent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. WBE is primarily utilized for its potential benefits in supporting cardiovascular health, enhancing cognitive function, and regulating mood. Research indicates that its high anthocyanin content contributes to improved endothelial function and neuronal signaling. The evidence base for WBE is moderately mature, with several randomized controlled trials (RCTs) and meta-analyses supporting its efficacy, particularly in areas of cardiovascular and cognitive health, though some outcomes warrant further large-scale validation. It is typically consumed in capsule form.
Benefits
Wild blueberry extract offers several evidence-based benefits, primarily due to its rich anthocyanin content: * **Cardiovascular Health:** A systematic review and meta-analysis of 11 RCTs demonstrated significant improvements in endothelial function, as measured by flow-mediated dilation (FMD) and reactive hyperemia index (RHI). FMD increased by an average of 1.50% and RHI by 0.26. Additionally, a modest but significant decrease in diastolic blood pressure (1.95 mmHg) was observed, particularly in smokers. No significant effects on systolic blood pressure or lipid profiles were noted. This suggests WBE can support vascular health by improving blood vessel flexibility and reducing mild hypertension. * **Cognitive Enhancement:** In healthy older adults, daily supplementation with 100 mg of WBE (specifically WBE111) for six months led to improvements in late word recognition memory and showed positive trends in visuospatial memory. Other studies have also reported improved recognition memory and reduced repetition errors in verbal learning tasks after 3-6 months of supplementation. These findings suggest WBE may help preserve or enhance certain aspects of memory and cognitive processing in aging populations. * **Mood Regulation:** A 4-week randomized controlled trial in adolescents found that daily wild blueberry supplementation (containing approximately 253 mg anthocyanins) significantly reduced symptoms of depression, with a medium effect size (d=0.65). While a significant effect on anxiety was not observed, this indicates a potential role for WBE in supporting mood, particularly in younger populations experiencing depressive symptoms.
How it works
Wild blueberry extract exerts its effects primarily through its rich content of anthocyanins and other polyphenols. These bioactive compounds function as potent antioxidants, neutralizing harmful free radicals, and as anti-inflammatory agents, reducing systemic inflammation. In the cardiovascular system, they improve endothelial function by enhancing the bioavailability of nitric oxide, a crucial molecule for vasodilation, and by reducing oxidative stress on blood vessel walls, thereby modulating vascular tone. In the brain, anthocyanins are believed to cross the blood-brain barrier and influence neuronal signaling, improve cerebral blood flow, and enhance synaptic plasticity, which contributes to the observed cognitive and mood benefits. While anthocyanins undergo metabolism in the body, their metabolites retain significant biological activity.
Side effects
Wild blueberry extract is generally considered safe and well-tolerated, with clinical trials reporting no serious adverse effects. Mild and rare side effects, such as gastrointestinal discomfort, have been noted in some individuals. There are no significant drug interactions or contraindications documented in the current scientific literature. However, individuals on anticoagulant medications should exercise caution due to potential, though unconfirmed, effects on blood clotting, and consult a healthcare professional. Safety data for specific populations, such as pregnant or lactating women, is not well-established, but given its food origin, it is generally considered likely safe, though professional medical advice is always recommended. As with any supplement, individuals with pre-existing medical conditions or those taking other medications should consult their healthcare provider before starting WBE supplementation to ensure its appropriateness and safety.
Dosage
Effective dosages of standardized wild blueberry extract observed in clinical studies range from 100 mg to 800 mg daily. For cognitive benefits, a daily dose of 100 mg, typically taken over six months, has shown positive effects on memory in older adults. For mood regulation, specifically reducing depressive symptoms, a daily intake providing approximately 253 mg of anthocyanins over four weeks was effective in adolescents. Cardiovascular benefits, including improved endothelial function and reduced diastolic blood pressure, have been observed with various doses, often in the range of 300-500 mg daily. Wild blueberry extract supplements are commonly available in capsule form. While not explicitly stated, absorption may be enhanced when taken with food. There are no established upper limits or safety thresholds that indicate toxicity at higher doses, but it is always advisable to adhere to recommended dosages and consult with a healthcare professional for personalized guidance.
FAQs
Is wild blueberry extract safe for long-term use?
Current research supports the safety of wild blueberry extract for at least six months of continuous use, with no serious adverse effects reported in clinical trials.
When can I expect to see benefits from wild blueberry extract?
The onset of benefits varies; cognitive and cardiovascular improvements may require weeks to months of consistent supplementation, while mood-related effects could be observed within four weeks.
Can wild blueberry extract replace my prescribed medication?
No, wild blueberry extract is a dietary supplement intended to complement health, not to replace prescribed medications or therapies for any medical condition. Always consult your doctor before making changes to your medication regimen.
Research Sources
- https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC11180891/ – This systematic review and meta-analysis of 11 RCTs involving 400 adults found that wild blueberry supplementation significantly improved endothelial function (FMD +1.5%, RHI +0.26) and modestly decreased diastolic blood pressure by 1.95 mmHg, particularly in smokers. It concluded that wild blueberry extract supports cardiovascular health by enhancing vascular function.
- https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC11054866/ – This multi-dose RCT in healthy older adults demonstrated that 100 mg of WBE111 daily for up to six months improved late word recognition memory and showed positive trends in visuospatial memory. The study suggests WBE can support specific cognitive functions in aging populations.
- https://www.cambridge.org/core/journals/british-journal-of-nutrition/article/effect-of-4-weeks-daily-wild-blueberry-supplementation-on-symptoms-of-depression-in-adolescents/E8ED12AC48E936A4A8D6664B93AD6AA6 – This double-blind, placebo-controlled RCT in 59 adolescents found that daily wild blueberry supplementation for four weeks significantly reduced symptoms of depression (d=0.65). While no effect on anxiety was observed, the study indicates a potential role for wild blueberry in mood regulation in adolescents.
- https://www.nature.com/articles/s41598-022-07302-4 – This review of RCTs focusing on older adults with memory complaints highlighted that 100 mg daily of WBE111 for 3-6 months led to cognitive improvements in verbal and visuospatial memory. It supports the use of wild blueberry extract for cognitive enhancement in this demographic.
