What are the side effects of lingonberry juice?

January 12, 2026 •

4 min read

While adverse reactions to lingonberries are considered rare, certain individuals may experience side effects from consuming the fruit or its juice. The likelihood of an adverse event depends on an individual's sensitivity to specific compounds within the berry, such as tannins, and any pre-existing health conditions.

Quick Summary

Lingonberry juice, though generally safe, may cause gastrointestinal upset due to tannins. Other concerns include rare allergic reactions and potential risks for pregnant women, young children, and those with liver or kidney disease.

Key Points

Nausea and Vomiting: The tannins in lingonberry juice can cause stomach upset, especially in sensitive individuals.
Rare Allergic Reactions: Although uncommon, allergic responses like itching and hives have been documented in some cases.
Risks for Pregnant Women: Due to chemical content, lingonberry is considered likely unsafe for pregnant and breastfeeding women.
Caution with Liver Disease: Chemicals in lingonberry may worsen pre-existing liver disease and should be avoided by affected individuals.
Potential for Kidney Stones: The high oxalate content is a concern for people with a history of kidney stones or kidney problems.
Long-term Children's Use: Long-term consumption of lingonberry is possibly unsafe for children due to potential liver damage.
Interactions with Medication: Polyphenols in berries can affect platelet activity, so those on blood thinners should consult a doctor, though significant interactions are not well-established.

Lingonberry juice is celebrated for its antioxidant properties and potential health benefits, which include supporting urinary tract health and reducing inflammation. However, like many herbal supplements and natural products, it is not without potential risks and side effects. Understanding these can help consumers make informed decisions, especially those in specific risk groups.

Gastrointestinal Side Effects

Nausea and Vomiting

One of the most frequently cited side effects associated with lingonberry juice is gastrointestinal discomfort, including nausea and vomiting. This is attributed to the presence of tannins, a class of astringent polyphenols found abundantly in lingonberries. Tannins can irritate the stomach lining in some sensitive individuals, leading to an upset stomach. The concentration of these compounds can vary depending on the preparation—whether it's a pure juice, concentrate, or jam—and the amount consumed. Starting with a smaller dose can help determine an individual's tolerance level.

Stomach Irritation

For those with existing gastrointestinal disorders, such as irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), the high levels of oxalates and tannins in lingonberries could potentially exacerbate symptoms. While lingonberries are often promoted for their health benefits, those with sensitive digestive systems should approach with caution and monitor their body's reaction carefully.

Allergic Reactions

Rare Allergic Responses

Adverse allergic reactions to lingonberries are considered rare, but documented cases exist. A case report detailed a 25-year-old woman who experienced symptoms such as itching, wheals (hives), and swelling of the mouth and throat after consuming lingonberry jam. This suggests that while uncommon, lingonberry products can be allergenic when ingested. Individuals with a history of allergies, particularly to other berries or similar plants, should be vigilant for symptoms of an allergic reaction.

Characterizing Allergens

As noted in the case report, more studies are needed to identify and characterize the specific allergenic components in lingonberries. Until then, awareness of the possibility, however small, is the best precaution.

Potential Risks for Specific Health Conditions

Kidney Health Concerns

Lingonberries, like many other plant-based foods, contain naturally occurring substances called oxalates. In individuals prone to kidney stones, high oxalate intake can contribute to their formation. It is crucial for those with a history of kidney problems or kidney stones to consult a healthcare professional before making lingonberry juice a regular part of their diet. Confusion between lingonberry and cranberry juice, which is often mistakenly linked to kidney stones, highlights the importance of individual assessment.

Liver Disease

WebMD issues a warning that certain chemicals within lingonberry could worsen existing liver disease. For this reason, individuals with any form of liver impairment should avoid lingonberry products. The long-term safety profile, especially regarding liver health, is not fully established, making caution paramount for those with underlying liver conditions.

Special Populations and Safety

Pregnancy and Breastfeeding

Using lingonberry products, including juice, during pregnancy and breastfeeding is advised against. This is because lingonberry contains chemicals that might induce genetic changes and potentially harm a developing fetus. Given the potential risks, it is considered likely unsafe for pregnant or breastfeeding women.

Children

While short-term use of lingonberry concentrate has been used safely in children for periods up to six months, long-term use is considered possibly unsafe. Extended consumption of lingonberry products in children could potentially cause liver damage, and thus, should be avoided.

Comparison: Lingonberry Juice vs. Cranberry Juice


Feature	Lingonberry Juice	Cranberry Juice
Tannin Content	High in tannins, which can cause nausea in sensitive individuals.	Contains tannins, also known to cause gastrointestinal issues in some people.
UTI Evidence	Mixed or unclear evidence; some studies combine it with cranberry.	Stronger, though sometimes complex, evidence for preventing UTIs.
Oxalate Level	Contains oxalates, a potential concern for those with a history of kidney stones.	Also contains oxalates, which can increase urinary stone risk in certain conditions.
Pregnancy Safety	Considered likely unsafe for pregnancy and breastfeeding.	More commonly studied, but safety during pregnancy requires medical consultation.

Managing Potential Risks and Safe Consumption

For the average, healthy adult, moderate consumption of lingonberry juice is likely safe. However, individuals with health concerns or those belonging to special populations should exercise caution. Key steps for safe consumption include:

Start with a small amount: This allows you to test your body's tolerance for the tannins and other compounds. If stomach upset occurs, reduce the dose or discontinue use.
Consult a healthcare provider: If you have a history of kidney stones, liver disease, or are pregnant or breastfeeding, discuss consumption with a doctor first. They can assess the risks based on your individual health profile.
Monitor children's intake: Long-term use in children is not recommended due to potential liver risks. If offering juice, ensure it is in moderation and for limited periods.
Check for allergies: Be aware of allergic reaction symptoms, particularly if you have other berry allergies. Discontinue use immediately if symptoms appear.

Conclusion

While lingonberry juice offers several potential health benefits, it is not without side effects and risks. The most common issues relate to gastrointestinal upset caused by tannins. More serious risks, such as potential harm during pregnancy and for individuals with liver disease or kidney stone susceptibility, are also present. As with any dietary supplement, moderation is key, and individuals with pre-existing health conditions or concerns should seek professional medical advice before incorporating it into their routine. Understanding the potential downsides ensures that you can enjoy the benefits of this unique berry juice responsibly.

For additional health information and warnings regarding lingonberry, please consult the reputable resource WebMD's Lingonberry page.

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, the tannins found in lingonberry juice can cause side effects like nausea and vomiting in some individuals, particularly if consumed in large quantities or if a person is sensitive to tannins.

No, allergic reactions are very rare, but they have been reported in some cases. Symptoms can include skin rashes, itching, and swelling of the mouth or throat. Anyone with a history of allergies should be cautious.

No, experts advise against using lingonberry during pregnancy, as it is considered likely unsafe due to potential risks to the fetus from its chemical components.

Lingonberries contain oxalates, which can increase the risk of kidney stones for individuals with pre-existing kidney problems or a history of stone formation. Consulting a doctor is recommended.

While short-term, appropriate use may be safe, long-term consumption of lingonberry is possibly unsafe for children and could potentially cause liver damage.

Yes, WebMD warns that certain chemicals in lingonberry may worsen liver disease and should be avoided by those with liver issues.

There is no universally recommended dose. Starting with a small amount and observing your body's reaction is the best approach. For general consumption, moderation is key.

Some studies suggest that polyphenols in berries can affect blood vessel function and blood pressure. However, strong evidence for direct, significant interactions with blood pressure medication is limited. Consult your physician for advice on incorporating it into your diet.