Blueberry
Blueberries are the small blue fruits of shrubs in the genus Vaccinium. They are rich in anthocyanins, the pigments that give them their color.
Can blueberries help memory?
A 2019 review of 11 studies found encouraging results for delayed recall and some other thinking skills in children, older adults and people with mild cognitive impairment. A subsequent methodological critique identified selective reporting and effect sizes that could not be reproduced, weakening confidence in the review’s apparent strength. 1 2 3
What did the newer review find?
A 2026 meta-analysis of 14 randomized trials involving 632 healthy participants found improved flow-mediated dilation, a measure of how blood vessels widen. Blood pressure, executive function and mood did not improve significantly. Doses, preparations, ages and study lengths varied. 4
The vascular result is encouraging, but it does not establish prevention of heart attacks or dementia. The pooled mood result did not show a clear benefit in these healthy participants. 4
Effects by health goal
Open an effect to see the studies behind its rating. Bars show the size of the effect; the letter grades the evidence.
Cognition3 effects
No study is linked to this rating.
Longevity2 effects
No study is linked to this rating.
Immune Support1 effect
No study is linked to this rating.
Gut Health1 effect
No study is linked to this rating.
Stress & Mood2 effects
No study is linked to this rating.
No study is linked to this rating.
Weight Management1 effect
No study is linked to this rating.
Organ Function1 effect
No study is linked to this rating.
Other effects1 effect
No study is linked to this rating.
All studies
6 publications are linked to Blueberry, newest first.
Sources
- Blueberries 2021