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Mirtoselect Bilberry

Q: Is Mirtoselect® safe for everyone?

Mirtoselect® is generally safe, but it is recommended to consult a healthcare provider, especially for pregnant or breastfeeding women or those with chronic conditions.

Q: When should I take Mirtoselect®?

There is no specific timing recommendation, but taking Mirtoselect® consistently daily is beneficial.

Q: What improvements can I expect with Mirtoselect®?

Users commonly experience enhanced tear secretion and increased antioxidant potential, particularly beneficial for dry eye conditions.

Q: Are all bilberry extracts the same?

No, not all bilberry extracts are equivalently effective; Mirtoselect® is specifically standardized to ensure optimal efficacy.

Also known as: Vaccinium myrtillus, bilberry extract, myrtoselect, European blueberry, Mirtoselect Bilberry

Overview

Mirtoselect® is a standardized extract derived from the berries of *Vaccinium myrtillus* L. Known for its high content of anthocyanins (at least 36%), it plays a vital role in promoting vascular and ocular health, as well as supporting gastrointestinal and cardiovascular functions. Mirtoselect® extracts are prepared from berries harvested fresh during the harvest season of July to September and are rich in beneficial polyphenols. The ingredient has been the subject of extensive research, comprising nearly 60 peer-reviewed studies, including over 30 randomized controlled trials. The documented health benefits and safety profile of Mirtoselect® highlight its relevance as a dietary supplement for various populations, especially for those with dry eye symptoms and cardiovascular concerns.

Benefits

Mirtoselect® has multiple evidence-backed benefits, particularly for ocular health, where it enhances tear secretion in dry eye sufferers as measured by improvement in Schirmer's test (p = 0.019) and increases antioxidant capacity (BAP test, p = 0.003). It has also demonstrated positive effects in retinal circulation for patients with retinopathy. Preclinical studies suggest anticancer effects, especially in reducing gastrointestinal adenoma load in rodent models. Moreover, regular flavonoid intake from bilberry is linked to reduced cardiovascular disease mortality and improved glycemic control in individuals with type 2 diabetes. The studies supporting these benefits show strong evidence quality and significant clinical relevance, especially for dry eye patients.

How it works

The efficacy of Mirtoselect® stems from its high concentration of anthocyanins and polyphenolic compounds, known for their potent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. These compounds help safeguard vascular health by reducing oxidative stress and inflammation. By targeting molecular pathways that diminish reactive oxygen species, Mirtoselect® improves tear production and microcirculation in ocular tissues, benefiting both eye health and cardiovascular systems. The presence of non-anthocyanin constituents in the extract appears to enhance the bioavailability and overall functional synergy of these compounds, thereby maximizing their therapeutic potential.

Side effects

Mirtoselect® is generally considered safe, with no serious adverse effects noted in clinical trials. Common side effects (>5%) have not been reported, nor have any uncommon (1-5%) or rare (<1%) side effects been documented. The extract does not show known drug interactions, suggesting it is safe for use alongside conventional medications. However, caution is advised for individuals taking multiple medications, and it’s best for pregnant or breastfeeding women, as well as those with pre-existing health conditions, to consult healthcare professionals before starting supplementation to properly manage any potential risks.

Dosage

The advised starting dosage of Mirtoselect® for ocular health is approximately 160 mg per day, ensuring at least 36% anthocyanins are included. Dosages can effectively range from 160 to 320 mg daily for therapeutic benefits. Although no maximum safe dosage has been reported, levels up to 320 mg have been well-tolerated without adverse outcomes. While there are no strict guidelines on the timing of intake, consistent daily use is recommended for lasting benefits. Mirtoselect® is typically available in capsule or tablet form and shows improved absorption when accompanied by its non-anthocyanin components.

FAQs

Is Mirtoselect® safe for everyone?

Mirtoselect® is generally safe, but it is recommended to consult a healthcare provider, especially for pregnant or breastfeeding women or those with chronic conditions.

When should I take Mirtoselect®?

There is no specific timing recommendation, but taking Mirtoselect® consistently daily is beneficial.

What improvements can I expect with Mirtoselect®?

Users commonly experience enhanced tear secretion and increased antioxidant potential, particularly beneficial for dry eye conditions.

Are all bilberry extracts the same?

No, not all bilberry extracts are equivalently effective; Mirtoselect® is specifically standardized to ensure optimal efficacy.

Research Sources

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3631875/ – This article reviews the health benefits of bilberry extracts and their polyphenol content, focusing on ocular health and the cardiovascular system, and discusses various clinical studies demonstrating these effects.
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/22847284/ – A randomized controlled trial examining the effects of Mirtoselect® on tear secretion and antioxidant capacity in patients with dry eye symptoms, reporting significant improvement metrics.
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0271531713001083 – The study investigates the anticancer potential of bilberry extracts, providing preclinical evidence of their efficacy in reducing gastrointestinal adenoma load in rodent models.