Bilberry Extract

What Does Bilberry Extract Do?

Bilberry extract, a potent relative of the blueberry, is prized in sports nutrition for its high concentration of anthocyanins. These powerful antioxidants play a critical role in protecting your body from the oxidative stress generated during grueling training sessions, ensuring your cellular machinery remains efficient.

• Visual Performance: Enhances night vision and reduces eye strain, helping you maintain sharp focus under harsh gym lighting or during late-night sessions.
• Antioxidant Defense: Neutralizes reactive oxygen species (ROS) produced during high-intensity exercise, which can help mitigate cellular damage and support systemic recovery.
• Microcirculation Support: Strengthens capillary walls and improves blood flow through smaller vessels, ensuring efficient nutrient delivery to peripheral tissues and the eyes.
• Blood Glucose Stability: Helps regulate blood sugar levels, potentially smoothing out the energy curves often associated with high-carbohydrate or high-stimulant pre-workouts.

Clinical vs. Gym Bro Dosing

Key Insight: To get the most out of your bilberry extract, ensure the label specifies a "standardized" extract (usually 25% anthocyanins). Without standardization, you might just be consuming expensive fruit powder with negligible active benefits. The 100mg dose is the gold standard for daily ocular support.

Side Effects & Warnings

• Gastrointestinal Issues: In rare cases, high doses can lead to mild nausea, bloating, or stomach upset if taken on an empty stomach.
• Blood Sugar Impact: Because it can lower blood glucose, individuals with diabetes or those prone to hypoglycemia should monitor their levels closely.
• Blood Thinning: Bilberry may have mild anti-platelet properties, which could theoretically interact with anticoagulant medications or aspirin.

Contraindications: If you are scheduled for surgery, discontinue bilberry extract at least two weeks prior to avoid potential interference with blood sugar control or bleeding. Always consult with a medical professional if you are taking prescription blood thinners.