Tag: Bilberry benefits

Bilberries are one of nature's richest sources of anthocyanins, boasting up to 700 mg per 100 grams of fresh fruit, a concentration that far surpasses that of American blueberries. This remarkable density of bioactive compounds is responsible for the bilberry's deep purple color and many of its acclaimed health-promoting effects.

Wild bilberries, a native European superfood, can contain up to four times more antioxidants than their cultivated blueberry cousins. Learning how to eat bilberry allows you to harness its unique tart flavor when fresh and its richer taste when cooked, making it a versatile and healthy addition to your meals.

Some studies suggest that European bilberries can contain up to four times more antioxidants, specifically anthocyanins, than their American blueberry counterparts. This disparity raises the question: are bilberries better for you than blueberries, or is the nutritional profile more nuanced?

Bilberry, scientifically known as *Vaccinium myrtillus*, has a long history in European folk medicine, with lore suggesting its use by WWII pilots to improve night vision. Today, extensive research supports a wide range of benefits that bilberry has, primarily linked to its high concentration of powerful antioxidants called anthocyanins. These compounds protect the body from oxidative stress and inflammation, contributing to numerous health advantages.