Bilberry is a fruit-derived supplement studied for its potential impact on metabolic and cardiovascular health. Current research suggests it may influence glycemic response and is being investigated for its role in managing glucose, cholesterol, and blood pressure.

Evidence by Condition

Glycemic Response Insufficient

A single dose of standardized bilberry extract has been shown to modify glycemic response.

Metabolic Health (Glucose, Cholesterol, Blood Pressure) Insufficient

Systematic reviews have explored the efficacy of bilberry and grape seed extracts in improving these metabolic markers.

Post-Myocardial Infarction Insufficient

Clinical trials have investigated the use of bilberry as a dietary supplement following a heart attack.

Effective Doses

Not specified in provided research.

Key Findings

A single supplement of standardized bilberry extract modifies glycemic response (NCT01245270).
Systematic reviews have evaluated the efficacy of bilberry and grape seed extracts for improving glucose, cholesterol, and blood pressure (PMID: 34067538).
Clinical trials have investigated the use of bilberry as a dietary supplement in patients following myocardial infarction (NCT01958034).

Limitations

The available research is limited by small sample sizes and a lack of large-scale, long-term clinical evidence.

Safety & Interactions

No specific interactions or contraindications were reported in the provided research.

AI-generated summary from 3 peer-reviewed studies. Not medical advice. Always consult a healthcare provider.

Claims vs. Evidence

67% Evidence-Backed

33% Unsupported

83% Structure/Function

Claim Type	% of Products	Evidence Required	Status
All Other	99%	Tier D (Unclassified)	✅ Supported
Structure/Function	83%	Tier C (DSHEA Structure/Function (no pre-approval))	⚠️ Unsupported
Nutrient	8%	Tier D (Unknown)	✅ Supported

Research by Topic

Dietary Supplement General 2 studies

CLI A Single Supplement of a Standardised Bilberry Extract Modif...

CLI Bilberry as a Dietary Supplement After Myocardial Infarction...

Grape Seed 1 studies

SYS Efficacy of Bilberry and Grape Seed Extract Supplement Inter...

Research Evidence (3)

Clinical Trial: 2 Systematic Review: 1

B Efficacy of Bilberry and Grape Seed Extract Supplement Interventions to Improve Glucose and Cholesterol Metabolism and Blood Pressure in Different Populations-A Systematic Review of the Literature

Systematic Review Nutrients 2021 n=4

**Grohmann et al., 2021** | Nutrients | Systematic Review Grohmann Teresa, Litts Caroline, ... de Roos Baukje. Efficacy of Bilberry and Grape Seed Extract Supplement Interventions to Improve Glucose and Cholesterol Metabolism and Blood Pressure in Di...

PubMed DOI

C A Single Supplement of a Standardised Bilberry Extract Modifies Glycaemic Response

Clinical Trial ClinicalTrials.gov 2010

**NCT ID**: NCT01245270 **Phase**: NA **Status**: COMPLETED **Enrollment**: 8 **Completion**: 2013-08

ClinicalTrials.gov

C Bilberry as a Dietary Supplement After Myocardial Infarction (The BEAR SMART Trial)

Clinical Trial ClinicalTrials.gov 2014

**NCT ID**: NCT01958034 **Phase**: PHASE4 **Status**: COMPLETED **Enrollment**: 50 **Completion**: 2015-11

ClinicalTrials.gov

Related Supplements

Grape Seed 1 shared sources

Frequently Asked Questions

What is bilberry and what is it used for?

Bilberry is a fruit-derived supplement studied for its potential impact on metabolic and cardiovascular health. There is currently weak evidence regarding its ability to influence glucose, cholesterol, and blood pressure levels.

Does bilberry help with blood sugar levels?

There is insufficient evidence to confirm that bilberry effectively manages blood sugar. However, some research suggests that a single dose of standardized bilberry extract may modify glycemic response.

Can bilberry lower cholesterol and blood pressure?

Current research provides insufficient evidence regarding bilberry's ability to improve cholesterol and blood pressure. While systematic reviews have explored these uses, more robust evidence is needed.

Is bilberry safe to take?

No specific side effects or contraindications were reported in the available research. However, because the evidence for its health benefits is limited, you should consult a doctor before starting use.

Are there any drug interactions with bilberry?

There are currently no documented drug interactions for bilberry in the provided research. However, you should always check with a healthcare provider if you are taking prescription medications.

What is the recommended dose of bilberry?

The provided research does not specify an effective or recommended dose for bilberry. You should consult a medical professional for personalized dosing instructions.

Can bilberry be used after a heart attack?

Clinical trials have investigated the use of bilberry as a dietary supplement following a myocardial infarction (heart attack). However, there is currently insufficient evidence to support its use for this purpose.

Who should avoid taking bilberry?

No specific groups were identified as needing to avoid bilberry in the available research. However, because evidence for its metabolic benefits is insufficient, anyone with underlying health conditions should consult a doctor first.

Answers generated from research evidence. Not medical advice.