North American native plants, specifically Vaccinium angustifolium, commonly known as wild blueberries, are a formidable source of polyphenols, including flavonoids, which confer substantial advantages to human well-being. A recently published article in the esteemed journal Critical Reviews in Food Science and Nutrition consolidates the findings and viewpoints presented at an expert assembly dedicated to exploring the impact of wild blueberries on cardiometabolic health.
Vaccinium angustifolium. Image credit: Σ64 / CC BY 3.0.
These lowbush blueberries, recognized for their rich endowment of anthocyanins and other fortifying constituents, boast a long-standing history of human consumption.
The polyphenolic compounds, which impart their characteristic deep azure hue, have been the subject of extensive scientific inquiry due to their potent antioxidant capabilities.
“For millennia, humanity has recognized the value of wild blueberries,” stated Professor Dorothy Klimis-Zacas of the University of Maine, a co-lead author of the new assessment. “Indigenous wisdom acknowledged their benefits, and contemporary scientific investigation continues to unravel how the distinctive profile of wild blueberries may bolster health when integrated into a balanced dietary regimen.”
Within this comprehensive review, the researchers meticulously analyzed twelve human clinical investigations conducted across four distinct nations, in addition to numerous supplementary studies that probed the intricate interactions of wild blueberry compounds with biological systems.
A recurrent and significant observation across these studies was an improvement in vascular function – the capacity of blood vessels to dilate and respond appropriately to physiological cues.
Certain trials documented discernible enhancements in endothelial function occurring within mere hours of wild blueberry ingestion, while others reported sustained advantages resulting from regular consumption over periods spanning weeks or months.
Furthermore, emerging scientific evidence suggests beneficial effects on the gut microbiome.
Wild blueberries are abundant in dietary fiber and polyphenols that resist initial digestive breakdown and are subsequently metabolized by gut microorganisms into beneficial compounds that are absorbed into the bloodstream.
These metabolites may constitute a substantial portion of the circulating bioactive elements present in the body post-consumption. In one specific clinical trial, daily administration of freeze-dried wild blueberry powder led to an augmentation of salutary Bifidobacterium species populations.
Intriguing indications also exist that consistent blueberry intake could potentially enhance cognitive faculties, particularly in aspects such as processing speed and memory recall among older adults, possibly attributable to improved circulation or other systemic physiological effects.
For individuals presenting with elevated cardiometabolic risk factors, several investigations cited within the review identified clinically meaningful improvements in blood pressure regulation, glycemic control, and lipid profiles. These included reductions in overall cholesterol, LDL (“bad”) cholesterol, and triglycerides following several weeks of consistent blueberry consumption.
“The remarkable aspect of wild blueberries lies in their multifaceted composition, encompassing a plethora of polyphenols and nutrients, which appear to exert their health-promoting effects through a variety of mechanisms rather than just one,” commented Dr. Sarah A. Johnson of Florida State University, another co-lead author of the review. “The available data suggest that these berries may positively influence multiple biological pathways pertinent to cardiometabolic well-being, encompassing vascular function, inflammatory responses, and oxidative stress, with individual responses potentially varying.”
“The recent exploration into the gut microbiome’s role in mediating their health benefits is particularly compelling and may offer avenues for researchers to develop strategies aimed at optimizing the gut microbiota to amplify their positive health impacts.”
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Sarah A. Johnson et al. Wild blueberries and cardiometabolic health: a current review of the evidence. Critical Reviews in Food Science and Nutrition, published online January 24, 2026; doi: 10.1080/10408398.2025.2610406
