Nutrient-Rich Bilberries May Just Become Your New Favorite Fruit

Blueberries, raspberries, and strawberries are all incredible fruits to add to your diet (and easily pop into a smoothie on a super busy morning). They contain fiber, antioxidants, and other important nutrients—meaning they're superstars when it comes to supporting your overall health. But there is one type of berry you may be missing out on. Meet: the bilberry.

Related to the blueberry, bilberries (also known as huckleberries) are mostly native to Northern Europe—think Finland, Norway, and Sweden. "The shrub is local to this region, and the flavor profile of bilberries is very acidic. Bilberries are often referred to as European blueberries," explains sports nutritionist Kelly Jones, R.D. You can eat them fresh, dried in a powder, or as an extract—and they provide a ton of health benefits.

"Bilberries are much smaller and darker than their close relative, blueberries," says Abby Johnson, M.S., R.D. "One important distinction is that bilberries have about four times more antioxidants compared to blueberries."

And then there's the taste. According to Johnson, bilberries also have a stronger flavor profile than blueberries do. "They are more acidic, which gives them a tart and sour taste," she adds.

Bilberries are incredibly rich in antioxidants1 (most notably anthocyanins). Antioxidants work to fight free radical damage and keep our cells healthy, which could help promote long-term brain health, among other benefits.

"Bilberries are a good source of fiber, which is great for digestive health and blood sugar regulation," explains Johnson. "They are also rich in vitamins A, C, D, and K1." 

In a small study of 36 people, researchers found that participants who consumed 150 grams of frozen stored bilberries three times a week for six weeks experienced a significant decrease in total cholesterol2, LDL-C (your bad cholesterol), and triglycerides—along with an increase in HDL-C (your good cholesterol). These are all predictive factors for heart disease, suggesting that the consumption of bilberries can help keep your heart healthy.

Jones adds that because anthocyanins and other polyphenols are supportive of healthy inflammatory responses, bilberries may help manage inflammation. "Poor inflammatory responses impact the heart, cognition, and mood, muscular function and recovery from exercise, nutrient metabolism and immune system function," she says, "so in theory, bilberries could indirectly support all of those functions."

Since bilberries are high in fiber and low in sugar (similar to blueberries), they may play an important role in keeping your blood sugar stable. "With one study showing benefits for blood sugar management in males4, there is also promise for bilberry supplements to aid those with diabetes," says Jones.

While bilberries are grown in the Pacific Northwest and Alaska, they can be challenging to find in other parts of the United States. If this applies to you, here are some other options to consider.

"Turning to freeze-dried bilberries is an excellent alternative," adds Johnson. "Roughly 3 tablespoons of freeze-dried bilberries will give you the same amount of nutrients and antioxidants as a cup of fresh bilberries."

The main advantage of using extracts over the fruit is the phytochemicals (nutritive chemical compounds in the plant) bypass the need for digestion and can be easier for your body to absorb5. You may also find bilberry extract is a more convenient way to experience the fruit's benefits. 

Still, it's important to note that fresh bilberries can be hard to find in certain regions of the U.S., so a powder or extract may be your best bet.

Bilberries are a nutritious and antioxidant-rich fruit that may offer a number of wonderful health benefits. If the fruit is challenging to find in your region, you may want to consider trying a powder or extract. However you choose to eat them, this mighty little berry is worth putting on your radar.