What are the Side Effects of Lingonberry Jam?

December 25, 2025 •

4 min read

While lingonberry jam is a staple in Scandinavian cuisine, with berries prized for their antioxidant content, adverse reactions to the jam are rare. Most health concerns are linked to the high sugar content, the presence of tannins, or very specific health conditions, rather than the berries themselves.

Quick Summary

Lingonberry jam's side effects are generally mild and infrequent, with potential issues including rare allergic reactions, nausea, or digestive discomfort caused by tannins. Consumers should also be aware of the high sugar content and special warnings for specific individuals, such as those who are pregnant or have liver disease.

Key Points

High Sugar Content: A primary concern with lingonberry jam is its high sugar content, which can affect blood sugar levels, particularly for individuals with diabetes.
Tannin-Induced Nausea: The natural tannins in lingonberries can cause nausea or vomiting in sensitive individuals if consumed in large amounts.
Rare Allergic Reactions: Documented cases of allergic reactions to lingonberry jam are very rare but can cause symptoms like itching, hives, or swelling.
Caution for Pregnancy and Liver Disease: Lingonberry is not recommended for pregnant or breastfeeding individuals and those with liver disease due to potentially harmful compounds.
Less Potent Than Whole Berries: The health benefits of lingonberries are partially diminished in jam form due to cooking and the addition of large amounts of sugar.
Moderate Consumption Advised: It is safest to consume lingonberry jam in moderation and to consider unsweetened or low-sugar alternatives to maximize health benefits.
Individual Sensitivity: Digestive issues from tannins can vary significantly from person to person, making individual tolerance an important factor.

The Primary Causes of Adverse Reactions

Adverse reactions to lingonberry jam typically stem from a few key components. The high sugar content added during the jam-making process is the most common health consideration, especially for individuals with conditions like diabetes. Additionally, the natural tannins found in lingonberries can sometimes lead to mild digestive issues. In extremely rare cases, individuals may have a specific allergy to the berry itself, as evidenced by isolated case reports.

Potential Digestive Discomfort

Though lingonberries are known for their gut-health benefits, such as acting as a prebiotic due to their fiber content, their tannins can be a double-edged sword. Tannins are natural compounds that give lingonberries and other berries their tart, astringent taste. In some sensitive individuals, a high intake of tannins might lead to digestive upset. This can manifest as nausea or vomiting, especially if consumed in large quantities. For most people, the fiber in the berries actually aids in digestion, so any discomfort is likely related to the jam's specific concentration and the individual's sensitivity.

Risks Associated with High Sugar Content

Lingonberry jam is not just berries; it's a preserve that requires a significant amount of sugar for taste and preservation. This high sugar content is a notable side effect for those managing specific health conditions.

Blood Sugar Spikes: The added sugars can cause rapid spikes in blood glucose levels, which is a major concern for people with diabetes or those prone to insulin resistance. While the berries' polyphenols have shown some promise in regulating blood sugar in studies, the high amount of added sugar in jam can counteract these benefits.
Caloric Intake: Consuming large amounts of lingonberry jam can contribute to excess caloric intake, which may lead to weight gain over time if not balanced with other dietary considerations.

Allergic Reactions: A Rare Consideration

True allergic reactions to lingonberry jam are extremely rare but have been documented in isolated case reports. A case described a woman who developed itching and hives after consuming lingonberry jam. Symptoms of a lingonberry allergy may include:

Hives or itchy skin
Itching or tingling in the mouth, tongue, or throat
Swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat

It is important to differentiate between a true allergy and an intolerance. If you suspect an allergic reaction, stop consumption and consult a medical professional immediately.

Special Precautions for Specific Groups

While generally safe, lingonberry jam should be approached with caution by certain individuals.

Pregnancy and Breast-feeding: Lingonberry consumption is considered "LIKELY UNSAFE" during pregnancy and breast-feeding. Lingonberries contain chemicals that might cause genetic changes and harm to the fetus, so pregnant and lactating individuals should avoid it.
Liver Disease: Individuals with existing liver disease should also be cautious. The compounds in lingonberries can potentially worsen liver conditions.
Children: While lingonberry concentrate is possibly safe for children in a drink for up to 6 months, long-term use is advised against due to potential liver damage.

Lingonberry Jam vs. Whole Berries: A Comparison

To understand the nuances of the side effects, comparing the jam to whole, unsweetened lingonberries is helpful.


Feature	Lingonberry Jam	Whole Lingonberries (Unsweetened)
Sugar Content	High; significant added sugar for preservation and taste.	Low; contains only natural fruit sugars.
Tannins	Present, but cooking may alter their composition.	High concentration, especially in the raw fruit.
Health Benefits	Retains some antioxidants, but high sugar content can negate benefits.	High in antioxidants, fiber, and other compounds; offers more pronounced health benefits.
Effect on Blood Sugar	Can cause blood sugar spikes due to added sugar.	Helps regulate blood sugar due to fiber and polyphenols.
Storage	Preserved for longer periods due to sugar content.	Best fresh or frozen due to short shelf life.

Conclusion

For the average person consuming lingonberry jam in moderation, the side effects are minimal and infrequent. The main consideration is the high sugar content, which is a universal concern with most jams and preserves. Rare allergic reactions have been reported, and some individuals sensitive to tannins may experience minor digestive upset. However, for pregnant or breastfeeding individuals and those with liver disease, it is best to avoid lingonberry products altogether due to specific chemical interactions. Choosing unsweetened whole berries or a low-sugar version of the jam is the best way to reap the natural health benefits while minimizing potential drawbacks. Moderation and mindful consumption remain key to enjoying this Scandinavian delicacy safely.

For more information on the bioactive compounds in lingonberries, see this comprehensive review: Lingonberry (Vaccinium vitis-idaea L.) Fruit as a Source of Bioactive Compounds with Health-Promoting Effects–A Review

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, although extremely rare, case reports exist of individuals experiencing an allergic reaction, with symptoms such as itching, hives, and swelling, after consuming lingonberry jam.

No, it is likely unsafe for pregnant or breastfeeding women, as lingonberries contain chemicals that might cause genetic changes and harm to a fetus or baby.

Yes, lingonberry jam contains a significant amount of added sugar for preservation and palatability, which can cause blood sugar spikes.

Yes, for some sensitive individuals, the tannins naturally present in lingonberries can cause mild digestive upset, including nausea or vomiting.

Due to its high sugar content, lingonberry jam should be consumed with caution by people with diabetes, as it can negatively impact blood sugar levels.

WebMD advises that individuals with liver disease should be cautious, as some chemicals in lingonberry products could potentially worsen their condition.

To minimize side effects, consume lingonberry jam in moderation. For those with health concerns, consider healthier alternatives like unsweetened lingonberry powder, or fresh or frozen berries.